by Frank Drucker, Publicity Director, Empire City at Yonkers Raceway

Yonkers, NY — Roland N Rock (Jordan Stratton, $6.90) launched a decisive backside move Saturday night (Jan. 14), winning Yonkers Raceway’s $45,000 Open Handicap Pace.

Mike Lizzi photo

Roland N Rock collects his first victory of 2017 on Saturday evening at Yonkers Raceway.

Away fourth—from assigned post position two—among the half-dozen, Roland N Rock watched as 11-10 choice Limelight Beach (George Brennan) made the lead around P H Supercam (Jason Bartlett)..

Early intervals of :27.1 and a flat :57 seconds should have served the leader well, but alas, nope.

Roland N Rock moved at the leader by the 1:25.1 three-quarters, meeting no pushback whatsoever. ‘Roland’ opened a 1-1/2 length lead into the lane, then held off the rival he dragged in—a last-early Blood Brother (Scott Zeron)—by a neck in 1:53.1.

PH Supercam was a trapped third, with Sports Bettor (Dan Dube) and Somewhere Fancy (Matt Kakaley) rounding out the payees. Limelight Beach retreated to last.

For second choice Roland N Rock, a now-5-year-old Rocknroll Hanover gelding co-owned by Connie & Duane Roland trained by Rob Harmon, it was a season-debuting victory. The exacta paid $57, with the triple returning $319.50.

Saturday’s Pick 5-wager did not get hit, so Sunday’s (Jan. 15) gimmick begins with a double-carryover of $6,426.84 (50-cent base wager, races six through 10).

Reminder first post for the ‘French’ 10-race card is 11:30 a.m.