by Mike Bozich, for Harrah’s Philadelphia

Chester, PA — After a solid performance against the best older pacers in the world in the Ben Franklin two weeks ago at Pocono, Dylan Davis trainee Mel Mara returned to the races, this time in a Winner’s Over pace going for $25,000 at Harrah’s Philadelphia on Sunday afternoon (July 17).

Starting from post seven, the 7-year-old son of Lis Mara left fast off the wings, clearing to the lead well before the quarter (:26.2). After rating the half (:55), Mel Mara turned it up a notch, pacing the third quarter in :26.3 (1:21.3). Mel Mara finished strong, stopping the clock in 1:48.4 (:27.1 last quarter). He finished under wraps, as driver Trace Tetrick never asked the now 14-time winner for any pace. Clear Vision (Yannick Gingras) finished second, while Southwind Amazon (Marcus Miller) overcame a tough trip to finish third.

Mel Mara is owned by Robert Cooper Stables and J&T Silva Stables. He won by four lengths in the end and paid $2.40 to win.