Pirate Hanover and driver Aaron Byron were last at the half with a seven-length deficit and circled the field to collar late leader Syracuse Express for the victory in the $11,487 Open Handicap Pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday, Sept. 28.
Last week's Open winner Docdor Friskie (John MacDonald) was looking for his fifth straight victory as he fired to the front in a :26 opening quarter. He stole a breather to the half in :55.3 and raced on to three-quarters in 1:24. But Syracuse Express (Adam Capizzano) popped the pocket and took the lead as they reached the stretch then a second-over Pirate Hanover came flying down the lane like he was shot out of a cannon and just got by to win in 1:51.4. Syracuse Express was second by a head and Heisonthehunt (Dylan Huckabone-Miller) finished two lengths back in third.
Pirate Hanover, a six-year-old son of Captaintreacherous out of Paris Hanover, is also owned and trained by Byron. He earned his seventh win of the season from 19 starts and now has 16 career victories with earnings totalling $256,952.
Pirate Hanover paid $3.70 to win as the bettors' choice.
John MacDonald drove four winners on the 11-race card and Jessica Okusko was leading trainer with three wins. They combined for victories with Logo and Rock Solid Express.
Live harness racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday, Oct. 4, starting at 6:05 p.m.
(With files from Vernon Downs)