courtesy harnessracing.com

Sir James upset five rivals on Friday night at Hazel Park to win the $12,500 William Connors Memorial prep race in 1:57.1. Raced in front of an overflow crowd on the holiday program that was capped off by a spectacular fireworks display, the contest for 3-year-old colt trotters served as a preview for the $100,000 Connors final scheduled for Friday night, July 12.

All six Connors prep entrants lined up behind the gate and it was Sir James and driver Mark Headworth who got the first call at the quarter in :28.3. Tucked in second was the betting favorite Powerful Poe and Todd Warren, who moved his charge to the front at the :58.3 half. Brad Kramer had Theatrical Session on the move first-over and past the three-quarters mark in 1:28 took the lead.

Headworth was able to angle Sir James to the outside in the stretch and the son of Master Glide rallied to the front to go on to win by 1-3/4 lengths over a late-closing Longwell and Dan Shetler. Theatrical Session held for third with Powerful Poe fading to fourth, beaten 5 1/2 lengths by the winner.

This was the ninth career start for Sir James and just his second of the year. He won his 2013 debut on June 25 at Hoosier Park in a career-best 1:56.1.

Dale Leu bred and owns Sir James in partnership with trainer Jim Mulinix.

The top four finishers, along with Torino Seelster and Voodoo Victor, all return for the $100,000 final. Post positions will be drawn Tuesday, July 9.