by Don Bielak, publicity director, Freehold Raceway

Freehold, NJ — FS Starzzzz Stables’ Four Starzzz King virtually walked the first half-mile and was able to outsprint the field the rest of the way for a three-quarter length victory in the featured $15,000 Open Handicap Pace at Freehold Raceway on Saturday.

Piloted by Hall of Famer Mike Lachance, the four-year-old gelded son of The Panderosa set fractions of :28.3, :58.2, and 1:26.3 and stopped the timer in 1:54.2 for the mile. Pacific Renegade (Yannick Gingras) got a rail trip and closed well to finish second. The 4-5 favorite, Holborn Hanover (Jim Morrill, Jr.), rallied determinedly but could not overcome the early factions and finished one length behind the winner in third.

Four Starzzz King notched his first win of the year in three outings. The David Sabatelli-trainee returned $9.00 as the third choice in the wagering.