Pompano Beach, FL…December 31, 2020…Rompaway Beau was retired in style at Pompano Park on Wednesday night (December 30) as the 14–soon to be 15–year-old harness racing warrior has reached the age of mandatory retirement.
The gallant warrior didn't win his 302nd career start…but he did get a check in finishing fifth closing out his lifetime bankroll at $547,819 to go along with his 1:53.4 over the seven-eighths oval at Hoosier Park seven years ago.
A 2006 foal by Chip Chip Hooray out of the N V Worthy mare Rompaway Stacey, Rompaway Beau won 68 times during his gritty career and enjoyed but one season with earnings over $100,000–that in 2012 when he earned $105,207.
"He was just a grand racehorse that traveled all around doing his job," related Don Harmon. He must've competed at well over 40 tracks (Editor's note: 46) and gave all he could every time he went behind the starting gate. We have had him all along these years since his first start back in 2008. He was extremely well mannered and rarely–if ever–made a break."
How true, In his 302 lifetime starts, his charted lines show only one single race when "Beau" made a miscue, and that was caused by interference, according to Don Harmon.
Owner Krista Harmon lamented, "He may not have been the fastest and he might not have won a million dollars, but he gave us millions of wonderful moments that we will cherish for our lifetime. He was truly one of the family and he'll be with us in retirement wherever we go.
"Retirement includes rest and relaxation, along with some trail riding and tender, loving care. He truly has earned it!"
POMPANO INCREASES PICK-4 GUARANTEES
Pompano Park has announced an across-the-board increase in their popular Pick-4 wager with the industry low 12% takeout.
The Sunday Pick-4 will now feature a $20,000 guaranteed pool, while the Monday Pick-4 pool will boast a $30,000 guarantee.
Tuesday’s Pick-4 will also have a $20,000 guaranteed pool while Wednesday and Thursday will feature $15,000 guaranteed pools.
In making the announcement of the increases, Director of Racing Gabe Prewitt related, “We’ve built up quite a bit of momentum with the new horsemen that have arrived and the competitive racing and the support we have received from our fans has been tremendous. It’s just another way to accommodate our great fans.”
Also, free programs will be extended through the month of January and are available on the isle casino racing website.
Racing continues on New Year's Eve with a special program featuring a Pick-6 carryover and a Super Hi-5 jackpot finale with a carryover of $36,623.
Post time is set for 7:20 p.m.
John Berry