Saratoga Springs, NY — Escaper won the local Open Trot for the first time on Sunday afternoon (Nov. 1) at Saratoga Casino Hotel, stopping the clock in 1:55.2.
Trainer Kevin McDermott acquired the five-year-old Muscle Hill gelding last month, and after winning in the class just below the Open, Escaper competed in the top class for the first time last week (Oct. 24), finishing fifth. On Sunday, the McDermott trainee drew post four for his try in the $18,000 Open, which served as one of the co-features on the matinee card.
Jay Randall sat behind Escaper, who moved first-over and overwhelmed the race’s longshot leader, who gave way approaching the three quarter pole. Escaper took over at that point, but was met with the challenge of Wolfpack Zach (Jacob Cutting), a 15-time winner this year. The likely Trotter of the Year at Saratoga tried to reel in Escaper late in the stretch, but the chase proved to be futile. Wolfpack Zach came up second-best, 1-1/2 lengths back, while favored Dealin With Dewey (Wally Hennessey) earned the show spot.
Live racing continues on Monday at Saratoga with a first post time of 12 p.m.