Santana Hanover Dominates At Grand River

After stashing away over $200,000 as a rookie, Santana Hanover came into the 2023 season with lofty goals resting heavily on his shoulders.   

But after struggling out of the blocks with an 0-for-5 record to start the year, he was moved to the barn of multiple O’Brien Award-winning trainer Richard Moreau. And the move helped him produce his first win of the year and the third of his career.

The son of Big Jim-So Artsi was the runner-up in the $204,000 Battle Of Waterloo last year and he finished up that brilliant rookie season under the guidance of trainer Scott McEneny with a runner-up effort in the $225,000 Ontario Sires Stakes Super Final.  But for whatever reason, he just failed to find that same form this season.

In his debut for Moreau at Grand River Raceway’s half-mile oval on Monday evening, the sophomore rolled to a 1:53.1 triumph in an $8,800 conditioned event. Brett MacDonald hustled him to the lead and after carving out panels of :27.3, :56.3 and 1:24.4, he motored home in :28.2 to win by three lengths over Called In Sick. Third prize went to Somewherentuscany.       

Santana Hanover, who is owned by Domenic Chiaravalle of Hamilton, Ont., has now banked in excess of $214,000 to date.

To view results for Monday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Monday Results – Grand River Raceway.