Dover, DE – Scuola Hanover dominated the Mares Open Handicap Pace at Dover Downs on Wednesday (Jan. 26) night. Driver Art Stafford Jr. and Scuola Hanover waited for She’s Pukka N to clear the lead, then pounced and took control and the lead at the quarter-pole.

Scuola Hanover wins at Dover on Wednesday night for Art Stafford Jr. Fotowon photo.

With temperatures in the low 20’s, Scuola Hanover cut all of the race fractions. The quarter was reached in :27.1, the half was :56.1 (:29) the three-quarters were reached in 1:24.3 (:28.2) The 7/5 betting race favorite, Soho Burning Love A raced from off the pace.

Driver Tim Tetrick and Soho Burning Love A attacked down the backstretch from sixth and without cover. However, they could not reach the pace setter Scuola Hanover.

Scuola Hanover was in cruise control into the lane. Shes Pukka N challenged late from the pocket but could not capitalize on the trip. Scuola Hanover (A Rocknroll Dance-So Artsi-Artsplace) won by 1-3/4 lengths in 1:51.1. She paid $5.00 to win. She is owned by Tom Ireland, Arthur C, and Andrew J Stafford all from Harrington, Delaware.

Scuola Hanover paced the last half in :55 seconds and a last quarter in :26.3. Shes Pukka N finished second for trainer Brian Malone and was driven by Tony Morgan. Soho Burning Love A was third for trainer Jim King Jr. and driver Tim Tetrick.

Tim Tetrick and Art Stafford Jr each. won three races on the betting card.

Thursday’s (Jan. 27) 12th race features Bo Mach and Caviart Eden, who were noses apart on the wire last week for the win. They compete in the $27,500 Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace.

Post Time for Dover Downs is 4:30 p.m.