Trotter Century Empress and pacer Uffizi emerged victorious in their respective $16,000 featured events during the Wednesday afternoon card (Sept. 26) at Harrah’s Philadelphia.
Century Empress, a sophomore Donato Hanover filly, lowered her career mark to 1:55.4 in the spotlighted trotting event. Trainer/driver Jeff Gregory had her in perfect stalking position behind the first-over Muscle Fashion. Century Empress went on to pass her cover and record a half-length victory for the ownership of Jeff Gregory Inc., Dumain Haven Farm, and Carlo Lattinelli.
Uffizi, a son of American Ideal, opened up a big lead down the backstretch and through the far turn in the pacing contest. Although the favoured Torrin Hanover methodically reduced the lead in the stretch, Uffizi was still clear by almost two lengths at the finish in 1:51.2 for trainer Chris Ryder and owners Robert Mondillo and Craig Henderson.
Uffizi was guided by New Zealand sensation Dexter Dunn, who recorded four driving victories during the card. Dunn has already worked his way up to 14th in wins for the yearlong driving statistics at ‘Philly,’ and his local UDR is hovering in the .300 range.
Both the Jackpot Hi-5 and the Pick-4 will carry over to Thursday's (Sept. 27) card. The carryover for the Jackpot Hi-5, a 20-cent base wager offered in the fifth race each day, has grown to $2,728.84, while the Pick-4 (races seven through 10) has a $1,863.24 carryover. Post time for the Thursday program is 12:25 p.m.
(With files from PHHA / Harrah’s Philadelphia)