Just when it appeared his first-over bid would fall short, Beachchip Hanover found a new gear and kicked by Seeyou At Thebeach to capture Thursday’s (Sept. 14) feature at Hollywood Casino, a $14,000 claiming handicap pace.
The 3-5 favourite, Seeyou At The Beach, seized the lead from post nine and looked well nigh unbeatable after a :29.1 second-quarter breather. Beachchip Hanover took up the challenge and drew just about even, only to lose a bit of ground in the final turn. Aaron Merriman roused the nine-year-old Somebeachsomewhere-Billie Bluechip gelding, who surged past Seeyou At Thebeach and downed him by a length in 1:52.2. Longshot Shazam Blue Chip completed the ticket.
Bill Rhoades trains the winner, who now boasts a lifetime bankroll of $340,488, for VIP Internet Stable and Braiden Rhoades.
Merriman piloted three winners on the 13-race card, including a pair for Rhoades.
On Friday (Sept. 15), The Meadows will host a pair of Keystone Classic stakes with combined purses of $148,600. On the wagering front, the 13-race program features a trio of carryovers: $2,494.02 in the Early Pick 4 (race one); $677.79 in the Pick 5 (race nine); $1,559.84 in the Early Pentafecta (race four). First post is 12:45 p.m.
(Meadows Standardbred Owners Association)