Cumberland, ME – Driver Wally Watson cut the fractions and prevailed with Yamaka in the 1-1/4 mile ‘distance race’ $7,000 Cumberland Derby on Saturday (May 2) at First Tracks Cumberland, while racing enthusiasts filled the apron and the grandstand wearing their Kentucky Derby best attire.
The field of six conditioned pacers lined up in front of the Derby Day fans while starter Wes Brown led the group around the paddock turn to a unique start on the backstretch. Watson sent the 9-5 favorite Yamaka out from post five and was parked going into the the turn by the pylon sitting Ahoy Hanover (7-2, James Doucette).
After the first bend, Yamaka was on top and well in control of the tempo, leading the pack into a :32.3 opening panel. Ahoy Hanover continued to track in second with Urika Blue Chip (11-1, Jason Bertonlini) sitting in third. Past the 1:04.3 half Bertolini tipped Urika Blue Chip to engage the leader into a 1:35.2 third panel. That brought Airspinder (3-1, Dave Ingraham) into position second over to roll in the outer flow.
Down the backside the final time the tempo increased and Airspinder was sent three wide to advance his stalled cover, with the pacesetting Yamaka keeping all the aggressors at bay through the 2:05 mile time.
As the field made haste down the stretch Yamaka could not be caught and Watson raised his whip triumphantly as they crossed the finish wire in 2:35.1.
Trained by Christopher Dubois for owner Steve Moskowitz Racing, the 12-year-old son of American Ideal picked up his 36th lifetime victory and second of the season. His career earnings now exceed $256,000. He returned $5.60.
Ahoy Hanover fought back gamely to retain second; Lenwoods Real Deal (Mike Stevenson) was third.
Aaron Hall and Mike Stevenson both had grand slams on the 12-race card, with Wally Watson grabbing a double.
Racing resumes on Friday (May 8), with Friday-Saturday racing at First Tracks Cumberland running throughout the month of May. After which the calendar reverts back to Saturday-Sunday cards for the month of June.
The extended pari-mutuel meeting runs through August 2.
A complete calendar and additional information can be viewed by visiting the First Tracks Cumberland website.