Chester, PA — Driver George Napolitano Jr. became only the eighth North American driver to record 12,000 victories in his sulky career by guiding Pencils Down to victory in the second race at Harrah’s Philadelphia Sunday afternoon (Dec. 24).

Driver George Napolitano Jr. became only the eighth North American driver to record 12,000 victories in his sulky career. Grace Zimmers photo.

“George Nap” kept the Royalty For Life mare in the two-hole trailing Everlastingfashion, then moved out on the far turn and gradually wore down the pacesetter late by a half-length in 1:56. The winner is owned by Pollack Racing LLC and pulled the fast-finishing trainer Jeff Cullipher closer to meet leader Ron Burke; their separation is 84-80 with two days to go.

Napolitano, 57, has won eight dash winning titles at the riverside oval, including setting the local single-season record of 399 in 2015, and he has also worn the UDR crown on four occasions. In 2010 George led North America in driving triumphs with 748 visits to the winner’s circle. For the day, he also took the honors with three visits to Victory Lane.

Harrah’s Philadelphia winds up its 2023 season with cards on Friday and Sunday this coming week, with Friday’s racing at 12:25 p.m. and the Sunday racing on the last day of the year beginning at 4 p.m.