Saratoga Springs, NY — After a break in stride and subsequent interference caused her to be disqualified from first and placed fifth in her last start, Bontz N found redemption on Tuesday afternoon (Sept. 21), winning the $15,000 Fillies and Mares Open at Saratoga Casino Hotel.

Bontz N resolutely returned to the win column by way of a gritty 1:53.4 score in the week’s top distaff pace at Saratoga Casino Hotel. Melissa Simser-Iovino photo.

Wally Hennessey wasted no time getting the 10-year-old mare to the lead, using a :26.4 first quarter to get to the front before getting a nice breather once settled on the lead. After completing her first lap in :57, Bontz N was tested by a first-over long shot and, in fact, headed at three-quarters, but the gutsy Bontz N dug in at the pylons to reclaim the lead turning for home and prevail in 1:53.4. Invader Stowaway Hanover (Mark Beckwith) rallied from last to finish second, while Somebeachsomefra (Jimmy Devaux) earned the show spot.

Gary Levine trains Bontz N, who paid $8.10 to win, for April Aldrich.

Hennessey piloted three winners on the afternoon card; Levine notched a training double.

Live racing at Saratoga resumes on Sunday afternoon (Sept. 26); first post time is set for 12 noon.