After struggling in recent starts at Pocono Downs, three-year-old pacing filly Stowaway Hanover shipped into Massachusetts on Thursday afternoon and went the race of her life while winning the $15,000 featured pace for four-year-old and younger female side-wheelers at Plainridge Park.
Stowaway Hanover (Mitchell Cushing) took an early lead and then let the heavy favourite Trussed Up Trudy (Bruce Ranger) take command and give her the trip. Trussed Up Trudy then went to the half in :56.1 and three-quarters in 1:24 with Stowaway Hanover in hot pursuit. The two horses separated from the field going into the last turn where Stowaway Hanover tipped and paced by the leader. At the top of the stretch Stowaway Hanover kicked away to a 3-1/2 length lead at the line where she won in a lifetime best 1:52.3.
It was the fifth win of the year on her first trip to Plainridge for Stowaway Hanover ($16.20) and owner/trainer Pasquale Picca.
Shawn Gray led all drivers on Thursday with three wins while trainer Melissa Beckwith was the top conditioner with two.
Racing resumes at Plainridge Park on Friday (Sept. 25) with post time at 2 p.m.
The Massachusetts Sire Stakes begin on Sunday (Sept. 27) at Plainridge Park and run through Monday (Oct. 26). There are three preliminary legs for each age, gender and gait followed by the finals.
(Standardbred Owners of Massachusetts)