Dayton, OH –  Fan Of Terror captured his 18th victory of the 2019 season on Saturday (Dec. 21) winning Hollywood Dayton Raceway’s $17,500 Open Pace in 1:50.2.  As if 18 wins isn’t impressive enough, the 7-year-old gelding’s annual earnings swelled to $219,705 racing exclusively in top level claimers to start the year and top condition and Open events the rest of the way.

Fan of Terror (#6) won for the 18th time of the year Saturday at Dayton. Conrad Photo.

It is believed the $219,705 figure may be the highest yearly total ever for a horse racing exclusively in Ohio and Indiana overnights, without the benefit of a single penny in stakes money.

Driver John DeLong rocketed out of the gate to grab early command with Fan Of Terror, but wisely relinquished the lead to heavily favored I’m A Big Deal (Brett Miller) at the :26.3 first quarter beam.

Sitting cozy in the pocket through middle half fractions of :55 and 1:22.4, DeLong was content to watch My Hero Ron (Mike Oosting) pressure the frontrunner while awaiting a chance to pounce on the leader.  That opportunity presented itself at the head of the home stretch when My Hero Ron, who finished a game third, tired and a battle royale ensued until the winner finally prevailed in the final strides over I’m A Big Deal.

Therl Hensley owns the winner and entrusts his stable stalwart’s career to trainer Peter Redder.

Just one week remains in the Hollywood Dayton meet.  Following a 2:15 p.m. matinee on Monday (Dec. 23), the southwest Ohio oval will close out the season with 6:15 p.m. programs on Thursday (Dec. 26), Friday (Dec. 27) and Saturday (Dec. 28).