Corbin, KY — Chad Morrison got his first pari-mutuel win on Sunday (Oct. 22), piloting Merito Hanover (Bettor’s Delight) to a 1:57.1 win in the $12,000 USHDC pace at Cumberland Run.

Chad Morrison got his first pari-mutuel driving win on Sunday. Amanda Stephens photo.

Morrison was cool, calm and collected as he came from well off the pace with the 5-year-old gelding and used a :30.1 closing kick to score by two lengths over Ayr Pioneer GB, driven by Dein Spriggs, with Gottalovemyshadow third for Carson Conrad.

Morrison, 36, has been around horses much of his life but decided to take a stronger position about two years ago in the training sector of the sport.

In talking about the win Morrison related, “They were leaving all over the place on both sides of me and I just couldn’t get involved in that so I got away fifth and the early fractions were pretty hot (:28 and :56.4) with a lot of action up front. I kind of let things play out and found some space to get out and this horse was really rolling once we straightened away. The credit goes to the horse, actually.”

When asked if he was after guys like Palone and Miller and Tetrick, Morrison chuckled, “I sure am…but I’d have to live to be 3,000 years old…at least!

“My next one will be as exciting as this one as I love the amateur club but really want to concentrate on the training aspect of the sport and use guys like Palone, Tetrick and Miller, if I ever get the chance!

“I really enjoy working with the horses every day and love seeing that they are healthy and athletic. Caring for them is most important for me!”

Merito Hanover earned his second win of the year in 22 starts and sent his 2023 bankroll to $17,640 and $73,560 lifetime. The winner, trained by Tony Dinges for Dawnelle Mock, paid $14.76 as fourth choice in the betting.