by Don Bielak, publicity director, Freehold Raceway

Freehold, NJ — Daylon Trooper, with David Miller in the sulky, rallied in the stretch and captured the featured $15,000 Open Handicap Pace at Freehold Raceway on Saturday.

Daylon Trooper, a seven-year-old Camluck stallion who races under the banner of Giovanni Cocca and Dominick and Frank Petracca, took the lead in mid-stretch and held off a late charge by Desert Sign (Cat Manzi) to win by a half length in 1:53.3. Wrist Rocket (Ron Pierce), who had waged a first-over battle from the midway point of the mile, held gamely for the show spot.

In winning the Freehold main event, Daylon Trooper collected his fourth win in 12 outings this season. The trainee of Ross Croghan closed as the odds-on favorite in the wagering and paid $3.20.