Dover, DE – Ballast followed cover and surged late to win the Fillies and Mares Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Wednesday (Dec.3) night.
Laurel Court sprinted early at the start of the race and cleared approaching the opening quarter in a wicked :26.3 Jett Propelled settled into the pocket. Ballast, and even odds betting choice Ragtime Red, were content to save energy along the pylons early.
Laurel Court led a field of the best pacing mares on the grounds to the half in :56 flat, a :29.2 quarter.
Ragtime Red maneuvered first-over into the chilly thirty degree temperature racing up the backstretch. Ballast benefitted into a second-over trip when Incaseyoudidntknow gapped cover third-over. Laurel Court continued on the lead at the three-quarters in 1:23.4, a :27.4 quarter. Ragtime Red held the lead at the top of the stretch. Ballast sprinted clear in the lane late and blasted home to win by a neck in 1:52.4. He paid $24.60 for the win.
Ragtime Red finished second and Incaseyoudidntknow closed late to finish third.
Ballast (Tall Dark Stranger) is owned by EVM Racing LLC. Chuck Crissman Jr. trained and Corey Callahan drove. Vince Copeland earned a driving triple.
Tomorrow’s feature at Bally’s Dover is the $25,000 Blue Hen Open Handicap Pace. Muskateer Hanover battles Itsrockandroll A. There is a Pick-5 carry over worth $1,348 to Thursday’s betting card.
Bally’s Dover races Monday through Thursday. First race post is 4:30 p.m.