Dover, DE — After finishing second in a tightening effort at Rosecroft Raceway four days ago, Slick Tony ($4.20) edged out a win in Thursday night’s (Feb. 25) $20,000 Open Pace at Dover Downs.

Driver Victor Kirby was all smiles as Slick Tony reached the Dover Downs winning post on Thursday evening. Fotowon photo.

Victor Kirby blasted Slick Tony away from the gate for the early lead before yielding to Tiger Thompson N — whom Dexter Dunn brushed from third — at the end of a :27 quarter. Tiger Thompson N passed the half in :55.3 before facing a first-over challenge from Tyga Hanover up the backstretch. Tiger Thompson N maintained the lead to three-quarters in 1:23, but at the top of the stretch, Slick Tony tiptoed along the rail from the pocket to win by three-quarters of a length in 1:51.

Tyga Hanover (Yannick Gingras) finished second after enduring a roughed-up trip; Itsrockandroll A (Corey Callahan) benefitted from second-over cover to finish third.

Slick Tony, a 6-year-old son of No Spin Zone, earned his 45th career win for owner, trainer and breeder George Leager.

Racing at Dover Downs resumes on Monday (March 1). Post time is 4:30 p.m.