Sweeping by tiring rivals, Audreys Dream claimed the $10,500 Open at Century Downs on Sunday, July 3, winning by half a length in 1:55.1.
Sent off the 3-5 favourite, Audreys Dream sat off a speed duel set by Sterling Cooper and Beren Hanover. In their battle, they established fractions of :27.2, :56, and 1:25. Beren Hanover, taking the lead in the first quarter, lost the lead heading to the half and attempted to retake at the three-quarters, carrying Nobettorplacetobe and Audreys Dream into contention. In the stretch, Nobettorplacetobe and Audreys Dream launched off Beren Hanover’s cover, with Audreys Dream sprinting home to beat Nobettorplacetobe. Beren Hanover finished third.
Owned by trainer Ashleigh Hensley in partnership with driver Ed Hensley, Audreys Dream ($3.30), an eight-year-old gelding by Rocknroll Hanover out of the Artsplace mare Belovedangel, collected his 32nd lifetime win in 142 starts, pushing his career earnings to $405,048. His last defeat came in May at the open level, and he's been untouchable since.
Trainer Travis Cullen scored a hat trick on the Sunday card, with his trainees Rain Gauge, Broadview Bridge, and Counter Strike winning in 1:55, 1:58, and 1:54.2 respectively. Cullen also drove his three winners, with Counter Strike pacing to a lifetime best. They paid $2.80, $4.70, and $3.90 respectively.
Live harness racing at Century Downs resumes on Friday, July 8. First race post time is 5:45 p.m. For full results from Sunday's card at Century, click the following link: Sunday Results - Century Downs.