by Mike Bozich, for Harrah’s Philadelphia

Chester, PA — A field of eight classy trotters lined up behind the starter for the featured event on a chilly Thursday (April 23) at Harrah’s Philadelphia. It was a trot for winners over $25,000 lifetime, going for a purse of $25,000.

It was a war right from the word go, as they battled three wide to the quarter. Race favorite Luminosity (Yannick Gingras) emerged with the lead from post five by an opening quarter in :27.4. Linda Toscano trainee Uva Hanover (Tim Tetrick) secured pocket position, while millionaire trotter Sevruga was forced to take back into third. After a calmer half (:57.2), Jim Campbell trainee Opening Night (John Campbell) moved up to challenge.

After a third quarter timed in 1:26.1, Luminosity drew clear by a length, but was unable to hold off the passing lane bid of Uva Hanover, who won by a head in the end. The final time was 1:55.1. Luminosity was second, while Team Six (Marcus Miller) rallied for third.

It was the ninth win out of 25 starts for the son of Cantab Hall. He is owned by Stake Your Claim Stables and Martin Sternberg. The winner paid $9.40.