Schoolkids upsets at 15-1 in Meadows pace

Washington, PA — Schoolkids worked out a cozy pocket trip, then brushed through the Lightning Lane to pull off a 15-1 upset in Monday’s $22,500 Winners Over $10,000 Life/Preferred Handicap Pace at The Meadows.

Dick Stillings urged Schoolkids toward the front, where he fell in behind Rockin The House, who was strong enough to thwart all challenges from the outside. But that left him vulnerable to Schoolkids, who blew by inside to down Rockin The House by a length in 1:51.3. The ground-saving Carol’s Comet was third.

Mike Palone trains Schoolkids, a 6-year-old son of I Am A Fool-Game Bunny who soared past $900,000 in career earnings, for New Jennaration LLC.

Brett Miller piloted four winners on the 16-race card while Tony Hall and Aaron Merriman each fashioned a three-bagger.

— Evan Pattak

Plainridge Racecourse
Maybe it was the first race tribute at Plainridge for the late horseman Stephen Thompson that produced some tight finishes during Monday’s 11-race program. Or maybe it was the welcoming of a bright sunny day. In any event, two drivers who rank among the top four at Plainridge Racecourse showed the way. Todd O’Dea and Steve Nason each reached the winner’s circle three times. Shaun Scott came from far back for his two scores. John Hogan won with Panamanian, which he owns, and stood by as Nason brought home Lucky Jo, which he co-owns with Marlborough’s retired policeman turned owner-trainer, Greg Brewster. Hogan also trains Al Thomas’ Rhythmic Moves who won and was driven by Nason. The late Mr. Thompson was a Foxboro regular driver-trainer several years ago and a joy to be around. He learned his trade from Bob Tisbert. After spending some 20 years in the sport he moved to Florida and took up a real estate career. On hand for Monday’s tribute were family members Kevin, Paul, Brian, John, Ann Marie and his mother Theresa. Thompson passed away in January 2010.