by Mark Ratzky, publicity department, Sacramento Harness Association

Sacramento, CA — There have been some great teams here over the past several years, and Bruce Clarke and Benn’s Fire are certainly among the best. Clarke has won a ton of races with Mark Anderson’s veteran trotting mare, including a victory last week in her patented come-from-behind style.

It’s back up to the top ranks for the newly turned 10-year-old on Thursday night (Jan. 4), as she takes on the likes of I’m Dam Goog and Desperateousewife in the featured Invitational.

Benn’s Fire went over the $400,000 mark in earnings during the summer, but suffered a setback in a late August appearance in a free-for-all and did not surface for night action again until mid-December. With a race under her belt, she came calling when it counted last time to prove a punctual even-money favorite.

“She’s one of my all-time favorites,” Bruce related following the last winner’s circle visit with Anderson’s protégé. “I guess the first time I drove her was about four years ago. She may not quite be the same mare she was, but she’s still got that class and now she does best when she can just sit back and move at the end.”

That was exactly the scenario that played out last week, as Clarke bided his time with Benn’s Fire, swung three wide off the cover train into the stretch and easily motored by the leaders for a six length romp.

“She raced good the time before off the layoff, but I still thought she might need one more start, but she was very strong in the stretch. It set up nicely for us, with a lot of movement up front.”

By the way, the only time Bruce joins forces with this trotter during the course of the week is when they come out on the track for the post parade and the ensuing two minutes of action.

“They bring her in off the farm and I get behind her when it’s time to race,” he explained.

Live racing resumes at Cal-Expo on Thursday, continuing through Saturday. Post time Thursday and on Saturday is at 5:35 p.m. Post time on Friday for a special 16-race card is at 5:00 p.m.

Cal-Expo offers Fiesta Thursdays, in which fans can enjoy $2.00 frozen margaritas and tacos!

Guaranteed Late Pick-4 pool every Friday and Saturday

Sacramento Harness Association at Cal-Expo continues to offer a $20,000 (guar.) Late Pick-4 pool every Friday and Saturday, on races nine through 12.