Slight second choice Linedrive Hanover managed to hand speedster Warrawee Vital his first loss since matching the all-time Canadian record with a 1:47 pocket pounce to victory in the $48,000 Free For All Pace on Saturday night (July 1) at Woodbine Mohawk Park.
Driver James MacDonald motored Linedrive Hanover for the lead to a :26.1 first quarter but obliged to sit second to Warrawee Vital up the backstretch as the even-money favourite cleared before a :53.1 half and maintained his speed through the final turn. Clocking three-quarters in 1:20.1, Warrawee Vital readied for the challenge of Linedrive Hanover in the lane, though he caved to the pressure from the Tony Beaton trainee as he strode to a three-quarter length victory at the finish. Poseidon Seelster finished third, another six lengths behind, with Codename Cigar Box fourth.
Linedrive Hanover, a five-year-old gelding by Betting Line, races for owners West Wins Stable, McKinlay & Fielding and Mac Nichol. He won for the 12th time from 21 tries and has now earned $408,980. He paid $4.10 to win.
To view Saturday’s harness racing results, click the following link: Saturday Results – Woodbine Mohawk Park.