Dover, DE – Backstreet Shadow won the Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday (Feb. 2) night.

Penzance Hanover and Whitecookie were in a private duel as they were launched from the starting gate. Whitecookie was able to clear Penzance Hanover for the early lead but not before pacing a vicious opening quarter in :25.3.
The 6/5 betting favorite, Penzance Hanover, accepted the pocket grudgingly. Backstreet Shadow floated and secured a seat into the fourth position pacing to the quarter.

Backstreet Shadow races tough to take the Open Pace at Dover Thursday night for Tim Tetrick. Fotowon photo.

Whitecookie continued on the lead and scorched the half in :54 seconds flat, a :28.2 quarter. Driver Tim Tetrick edged Backstreet Shadow off the rail in mid stretch. It was a well-timed move as Whitecookie became leg weary and tired. Penzance Hanover was trapped on the inside without any place to go.

Backstreet Shadow was in high gear passing the three-quarters in 1:22.1. That quarter was paced in :28.1.
In the stretch, Backstreet Shadow encountered company, as Wager On Me shot the rail and Stag Party rallied on the outside.

Eight-year-old, Backstreet Shadow was all heart and grit as he held on to win by a hard earned half-length. He won in 1:50.4 and paid $5.60.

Backstreet Shadow (Shadow Play) is owned by Robert Di Nozzi and trained by Jim King Jr. Wager On Me finished second for trainer Joe Columbo and driver Pat Berry. Stag Party closed to finish third for trainer Mike Hall, he was driven by Mike Hall.

George Napolitano Jr. scored three driving victories on the betting card.

Racing continues on Monday (Feb. 6) at Bally’s Dover. Post Time is 4:30 p.m.