There were three divisions of Pennsylvania Sire Stakes action for freshman pacers on Thursday afternoon (Aug. 20) at Harrah's Philadelphia, each going for a purse of just over $81,000.
In the first PASS division, it was JT45 and Burke Racing's Big Top Hanover (Brett Miller) springing the upset. The son of Western Ideal latched onto live cover at the half, and was able to out-close leader Ideal Jimmy (Marcus Miller) to pick up the win. Heavy favourite Spider Man Hanover dropped back sharply through the field and was distanced in the end. It was the first career win for the Ron Burke trainee, who completed the mile in 1:52.4. He paid $69.20 to win.
In division two, another Ron Burke charge Check Six (Yannick Gingras) was victorious. The son of Somebeachsomewhere showed tactical speed from post 7, putting him in position for a quarter brush, which he utilized just after the quarter. He led the rest of the way, winning by two lengths in 1:53. Im Some Graduate (Tim Tetrick) closed sharply to be second while Allies Cruiser (Matt Kakaley) closed up the inside for third. It was the fourth straight victory for Check Six, who returned $5.00. He is owned by Weaver Bruscemi, Burke Racing, Bill Switala, and James Martin.
Division three completed the Ron Burke sweep as JK Will Power took advantage of a perfect trip to win. The son of Somebeachsomewhere prevailed in a stretch duel over another Burke trainee, Manhattan Beach (Yannick Gingras) to prevail in 1:53.1. JJ Flynn (Brett Miller) finished third. It was the second career win for JK Will Power, who is owned by 3 Brothers Stables. He paid $5.00.
(Harrah's Philadelphia)