The fastest harness Racing trotter in the history of Running Aces, Pridecrest, made his way back to the winner's circle on Tuesday afternoon for his first local win of the season.
Sent off as the 8-5 favorite over Banker Volo (2-1), Pridecrest and driver Mooney Svendsen rocketed out of the gate from post five and had two lengths on Banker Volo (Nick Roland) as they passed the quarter in :28.2. Pridecrest continued to trot strong throughout and posted a middle half in :57.2 to keep Banker Volo chasing in the pocket while Magic Mvp (Chris Scicluna) launched a first over bid and threatened from third.
As they straightened for home there was no doubt about the winner, as Pridecrest ($5.40) coasted home comfortably to win by one length in 1:54.4 over Banker Volo who fought hard for second and prevailed over Magic Mvp.
The victory, which came in a $6,700 conditioned event, was the fourth of the year for Pridecrest, and his fastest win time in two years. It was career victory number thirty-nine for the 8 year old Angus Hall gelding, who has now bankrolled $328,977. The winning owner is Christopher Schick and the winning trainer is Kathie Plested-Wiseman.
The $5,500 two year old Open Trot went to Al Mar Bragen Star (Tim Maier) who picked up his first career win in 2:03 and provided fireworks on the tote-board with a win return of $30.00. The victory came in just the third career start for the gelded son of Braggart, owned and trained by Brett Ballinger, and also owned by Carl Swanson and Denise Maier.
Tim Maier led the program with the lone driving double on the day.
Live Racing returns to Running Aces on Saturday, August 22 with first post at 1:00 pm (CDT) and will feature two carryover pools – $1,121.94 for the 50 cent Hi-5 wager, and $974.20 for the 20 cent Pick-5 Jackpot wager.
By Darin Gagne, for Running Aces