Freehold, NJ – There was a big upset in Saturday’s (Jan. 11) Preferred Handicap pace at Freehold Raceway, as 19-1 Polak A upset 1-5 odds-on favorite Matticulous Gb.

George Brennan blasted off with Matticulous Gb, clearing him to the lead and setting up shop before the quarter. While he did get to the lead, he had to work very hard for it: the opening quarter was 27.1 seconds.

Meanwhile, Vinny Ginsburg conceded the lead with Polak and pocketed up behind the leader. As they rounded the final turn, Polak edged out of the pocket and presented a serious challenge to the favored leader. Though Matticulous tried hard to hold him off, Polak had plenty of horse and got by to win by a length. The final time for the mile was a blazing 1:52.

Polak performed well in the GSY Series amateur races late last year at the Meadowlands, winning two of four with a second in that class. Last out, he finished fifth after showing speed in the Preferred at Freehold. He’s owned by Tony Beltrami and trained by Vinny Fusco Jr.

Benson Boys N, Ozone Blue Chip, Bullet Bob, Gotta Go B B, The Onlyest One, and Clint Westwood completed the order of finish.

Live racing resumes at Freehold on Thursday (Jan. 16), beginning at 12:30 p.m. EST. There will be a two-day Pick-5 of $2,031.83.