Dover, DE — Downers Delight responded from a week off by rolling to his third consecutive victory at Bally’s Dover on Thursday night (March 19).
Rivals Itsrockandroll A (post 6) and Downers Delight (post 7) threw down as the wings of the gate opened, with Downers Delight clearing the lead after being parked out by an aggressive Itsrockandroll A and driver Russell Foster through a taxing :25.4 opening quarter.
Wager On Me started an early attack, pulling on the right line after the opening quarter. Steven’s Saloon shadowed second-over.
Downers Delight and driver Pat Berry were able to catch a breather easing to the half in :54.3.
Racing up the backstretch, Downers Delight, the 4-5 favorite, prepared for the long overland grind by Wager On Me. Steven’s Saloon prepared to tip from his second-over position. Itsrockandroll A. became the major danger racing in the pocket and looking to unleash his powerful brush..
Downers Delight turned on the burners reaching the three-quarters in 1:21.4.
Entering the top of the lane, Wager On Me started to become leg weary and Steven’s Saloon was gapping cover.
Downers Delight continued on the lead, however Itsrockandroll A, who saved ground in the pocket, was charging hard. Renaissance Deo also was closing fast along the pylons.
Downers Delight dug in gamely and prevailed, winning by three-quarters of a length and pacing the mile in 1:50.
Itsrockandroll A finished second. Renaissance Deo was loaded with pace and finished third.
Downers Delight, who paid $3.80 to win, is owned by TLB Racing LLC and trained by Traci Berry.
Bally’s Dover races Monday through Thursday; post time is 4:30 p.m.