Two-year-olds were in the spotlight Tuesday afternoon (June 30) at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono. American Courage recorded the fastest win time (1:54.1) of the two-year-old pacing contests, while the trotting speed honours (1:58.1) were shared by Bacardi and Above The Clouds.
Both of the trotting winners needed the photo finish camera to confirm their victories. The Southwind Frank – Strawberry Wine colt Bacardi raced in the pocket behind the favoured Sevenshadesofgrey, then methodically wore down the leader to post a half-length victory for driver Marcus Miller and trainer Erv Miller. Bacardi is owned by Ervin Miller Stable Inc., All-Wright Racing LLC, the Engel Stable of IL LLC, and the Rock And Roll Stable Inc.
Three juvenile trotting fillies were right on the wire together in a race that was ultimately won by the Explosive Matter--Miss Michelle H lass Above The Clouds. Above The Clouds was game to the wire despite an uncovered journey to defeat Fox Valley Liza and pacesetter Myreanna. Above The Clouds was driven by Corey Callahan for trainer John Butenschoen and the Bay Pond Racing Stable.
The American Ideal--Nota Fool Bluechip colt American Courage was well placed off of a backstretch duel, then swept around his field on the far turn en route to a six-length victory. Matt Kakaley was in charge of the quick colt for trainer Travis Alexander and the Fiddler’s Creek Stables LLC.
Kakaley had the hot hands on the Tuesday card with four winners, only one of which was favoured. In one race, after a foe was disqualified for going inside the pylons in the stretch, Diamondbeach and Kakaley lit up the tote board with a $54.20 win payoff, giving Kakaley the local lead with three $50+ 'bombers' at Pocono this season.
(PHHA / The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono)