Mister Daytona N debuted a winner in the $14,500 Open Pace at Saratoga Casino Hotel on Saturday, Aug. 18.
The six-year-old son of American Ideal, who has been a regular at Yonkers this season, flashed some uncharacteristic early speed in his debut at the Spa as Simons marched him out to the early lead in the feature. After putting up a first quarter in :27.2, Mister Daytona N slowed things down significantly before reaching the half in :57.2. From there, the invader accelerated and never stopped.
With veteran local-star Artful Way closing in heading to three-quarters, Simons stepped on the gas and Mister Daytona N responded all while Deetzy got the pocket ride. Those three pacers drew away turning for home before Mister Daytona N stopped the timer in 1:51.4 to win by a length and a half. Deetzy was the runner-up while the favoured Artful Way had to settle for the show spot.
Mister Daytona N, who was the public’s second choice in the wagering at odds of 9-5, paced his final half in :54.2 highlighted by a :26.4 last quarter in route to what was his fourth win of the season. The exacta paid $29.80 while the triple returned $104 in the Saturday feature.
Live racing resumes on Tuesday, Aug. 21 at Saratoga with a first post time set for 7:05 p.m.
(With files from Saratoga Casino Hotel)