Westwardho Hanover, a strapping, late- developing colt, extended his career unbeaten streak to four with a sharp victory in Friday’s Keystone Classic
at The Meadows.
A $90,000 yearling acquisition for Pinske Stables and Jim Simpson, Westwardho Hanover launched his career Aug. 20 with a win at Mohawk and collected two additional victories in overnight races at Georgian Downs.
“He’s a great big colt, and we gave him the whole month of April in Florida to mature,” trainer Tim Pinske said. “We waited on him. He told us when he was ready.”
In his first stake, the son of Dragon Again-Western Dual moved easily first over to score in a career-best 1:52.4, just two ticks off the stake record. Keystone Velocity was second, 1-1/4 lengths back, while Reckless Ric recovered from an early break to earn show money. Pinske said Westwardho Hanover likely will race in next week’s Breeders Crown eliminations.
Wink N Atcha, also prepping for the Breeders Crown, was the boss every step, scoring in a wrapped-up 1:54.4 for Brian Sears. Alsace Hanover was 5-1/2 lengths back in second, with Martini Twist third.
Pennsylvania’s 2010 divisional champion, Wink N Atcha has suffered only one defeat in his eight-race career — his only start outside the Keystone State. Nevertheless, trainer George Teague, Jr. expressed confidence that the son of Dragon Again-Kiss My Lips is ready for all comers.
“Pennsylvania isn’t a bad place to race for the money, but I think he can go elsewhere,” Teague said. “He has everything you want in a colt. He’s speedy and real handy. He’s won first over, and he’s won on the front end. He’s been effective anywhere on the racetrack.”
George Teague Jr Inc., Ted Gewertz, Gustis Teague and Paisano Stable own Wink N Atcha, a $40,000 yearling purchase.
Vincent Fra also may have earned a trip to the Breeders Crown with his facile 6-1/2-length victory over Border Fighting in 1:53.3. Rays San completed the top three finishers.
“He’s been really sound for us but for a little colt soreness every once in awhile,” said Toni Rose, second trainer for Steve Elliott. “Hopefully, we’ll go to the Breeders Crown. He showed us he can do it.”
The Fra Stable owns the homebred son of Western Hanover-Caila Fra.
The $148,400 event for freshman colt and gelding pacers was contested over five divisions, with Ishmaels Brother and Hugadragon taking the other splits. Brett Miller (Westwardho Hanover, Vincent Fra) and Dave Palone (Ishmaels Brother, Hugadragon) enjoyed stake driving doubles.
(The Meadows)