Columbus, OH — For the second consecutive year, Chase H Hanover took the closing night (Saturday, Sept. 14) Open Pace at Eldorado Scioto Downs, winning in 1:48.2.
Artatac A (Dan Noble) took the early lead going to the :26 opening quarter with Don’ttouchmytruck (Chris Presley) sitting in the pocket. Tyler Smith took Chase H Hanover back to last from post six and stayed in through the :54.1 half as Save America (Brett Miller) came first up. Heading towards three-quarters, Save America was wheel to wheel with Artatac A while Chase H Hanover was sitting third-over. Midway through the last turn, Save America cleared and Chase H Hanover was first-up, continuing to gain ground. Posting a :26.4 last quarter, Chase H Hanover was a half length the best to win over Save America; Art Scaping (Sam Widger) got up for third.
Chase H Hanover, a 6-year-old gelding by Captaintreacherous, is owned by Odds On Racing and Carl Howard. The evening’s victory in the $25,000 event was Chase H Hanover’s 29th win lifetime, which pushed his earnings to $1.044 million.
Chase H Hanover is trained by Virgil Morgan Jr., who was Scioto’s leading trainer for the 2024 season. This was his 30th consecutive training title at the south Columbus oval. Morgan ended the season with 108 wins in 419 starts and over $1.7 million in earnings.
The leading driver of the meet was Dan Noble, who had 235 wins in 1,152 starts. Both Noble and Morgan were joined by family and friends in the winner’s circle after the eighth race as they were recognized for their achievements.
The last race of the 2024 season was won by Sam Widger and Make Me An Offer. Widger was involved in an accident on June 15 and due to wrist surgery had some time away from the track. After having a few starts earlier this week, Widger made it back to the winner’s circle twice on closing night: first with General Dolan in race four and then in the 16th and final race.
While the racing season has ended, Eldorado Scioto Downs is open year-round for simulcasting, gaming and dining experiences. On Sept. 21, Scioto will host a NHC qualifying event, with the top three winners receiving entry to the 2025 National Handicapping Championship in Las Vegas, along with travel stipends and wagering vouchers to be used at Scioto during 2024.
Visit www.SciotoDowns.com for information on how to enjoy the Eldorado Scioto Downs property in the offseason, including dining at Brew Brothers and Guy Fieri’s Trattoria restaurants and exciting events coming up, such as monthly gaming promotions, handicapping contests, New Year’s Eve activities and more.