Nezblanc collared Aunt Bee in the shadow of the wire and pulled off the 9-1 upset in Thursday’s feature at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows, a $12,800 conditioned trot.
The only mare in the field, Aunt Bee moved first over and gobbled up the leader, L Dees Patrick. But the danger was on her bumper, as Nezblanc rode her cover and outkicked her in the lane by a nose in 1:55 over a sloppy surface. Mystical Peter rallied inside for show.
Aaron Johnston trains and drives Nezblanc, a five-year-old Donato Hanover-Chilitodayhotamale gelding who won for the 10th time in 41 career starts, for Richard Hess.
Mike Wilder piloted three winners on the 12-race card.
Live racing at The Meadows continues Friday when the 12-race program features a $10,405.87 carryover in the Jackpot Pick 5 (race 4). First post is 5:10 p.m.
(Meadows Standardbred Owners Association)