Josert Fonseca, whose competitive sulky career began by handling Hambletonian winner Pinkman in a qualifying victory last year, won with his first pari-mutuel drive on Friday (May 20) at Harrah's Philadelphia, guiding Brothers N Arms -- a full-brother to Father Patrick and Pastor Stephen -- to a 1:57 victory.
The 29-year-old Fonseca, a native of Costa Rica who came to the U.S. when he was eight, showed the patience of a veteran as he sat in the two-hole behind Keystone Sergeant, then went inside at headstretch and gained into the :28.4 last quarter for the easy triumph. It was also the maiden victory for Brothers N Arms, who is trained by Jimmy Takter for owners SRF Stable, Courant Inc., and Christina Takter.
Last year's Jugette winner Caviart Ally, despite being first-over and then facing a flying Princess Fabulosa late, nonetheless dug in to record a neck victory over her late-charging rival in the $18,000 distaff featured pace.
The daughter of Bettors Delight, trained by Noel Daley for the Caviart Farms, was sent uncovered near the half by Andrew McCarthy, forged first up to take over command late on the turn, and then withstood the bold late move from third-over Princess Fabulosa, stopping the timer in 1:52 on a rain-dulled track. The winner of $828,510 may be ready to take on tougher competition after remaining undefeated in two seasonal outings.
Here’s a look at the Harrah’s Race Office (484-490- 2222) and what its activities are next week:
• Monday, May 21; drawing for Friday, May 25
-- 6:30 p.m. post time Friday night 5-25
• Tuesday, May 22; drawing for Sunday, May 27
-- SUPER SUNDAY AT HARRAH’S PHILLY—12:40 p.m. post time
-- $150,000 Maxie Lee Trot (open)
-- $150,000 Betsy Ross Pace (fillies and mares)
-- $150,000 Commodore Barry Pace (open)
-- Great Northeast Open races for these classes
-- Pennsylvania Sire Stake for three-year-old pacing fillies
-- 5/8 mile dash for “nw10000L5” pacers
• Wednesday, May 23; drawing for Monday, May 28
-- SPECIAL MEMORIAL DAY LIVE CARD – 12:40 p.m. post time
-- Pennsylvania Stallion Series for three-year-old pacing fillies
-- 1-1/4 mile race for “nw4000L5” trotters
• Thursday, May 24; drawing for Wednesday, May 30
-- NOTE: Make changes 3:30-5:00 on Friday, May 25
• Friday, May 25; drawing for Thursday, May 31
(PHHA / Harrah's Philadelphia)