Dover, DE — Penzance Hanover punished a field of quality pacers in the $27,500 Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday night (March 7).

Penzance Hanover blasted off of the wings of the starting gate and took command early, reaching the opening quarter in :26.3. Belmont Royale N retreated to the pocket and Maximus Miki protected his position in third while Penzance Hanover controlled a :55 first half.

Energetic Hanover moved off the pylons past the half and raced bravely first-up down the backstretch. Jack’s Shadow N was towed second-over and I Did It Myway followed third-over cover as even-money choice Penzance Hanover motored past the three-quarters in 1:22.2. At the top of the stretch, the outside flow stalled. Belmont Royale N gained speed off the pylons and Maximus Miki was screaming for room from third. Penzance Hanover dug down deep and won by a neck in 1:50 for his fourth consecutive win.

Penzance Hanover withstood a barrage of late threats to win Thursday’s Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover. Fotowon photo.

Maximus Miki was raging with pace late and finished second; Belmont Royale N finished third.

Penzance Hanover, a 10-year-old son of Somebeachsomewhere, is owned, trained and driven by Art Stafford Jr. He paid $4.20 to win.

Live racing returns to Bally’s Dover on Monday (March 11); post time is 4:30 p.m.