by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — Last week when Haroun Hanover was seeking his 12th seasonal victory Three Artist got in his way. This week, again in search of win number 12, Haroun Hanover was beaten again by Three Artist. But both pacers had to take a backseat to a newcomer Runaway Energy.

Jimmy Devaux, who received the mount via a late driver change, surprisingly hustled Runaway Energy three-deep on the final turn and rallied his pacer alongside both Haroun Hanover and Three Artist, who were battling neck and neck.

Geri Schwarz photo

Runaway Energy paced by his foes in the lane en route to a 1:56 victory.

When the trio straightened for home three-abreast, announcer Howard Oil gave his signature “who do you like” call as they rushed toward the finish line. About 100 yards from the wire Runaway Energy overtook his challengers and went on to a 1-1/4 length triumph in 1:56 over Three Artist and driver Zeke Parker with Jimmy Marohn and Haroun Hanover a close third.

“This is a real nice animal,” Jimmy Devaux said about Runaway Energy while getting their photo taken in the winner’s circle. He then added, “He’s the real deal.”

Although the 7-year-old Bettor’s Delight gelding came into the contest with impressive credentials his task appeared somewhat daunting since he was matched against the powerful duo of 11-time winner Haroun Hanover and Three Artist, who beat the aforementioned last week in a time of 1:55.3.

And when Runaway Energy made a break before the start in the race Tuesday, most railbirds counted him out. But Devaux got him back pacing and they caught the field and raced at the back of the pack until the field was nearing the third stanza. At that point, to everyone’s surprise, Runaway Energy joined the leaders and with a :27.4 final quarter the pacer rambled to victory.

“It was his (Runaway Energy) first start here and he was a bit anxious behind the gate and when he made a bobble it didn’t help things,” Devaux said about Runaway Energy’s break before the start.

“We caught the field, but were still some eight lengths behind at the half and I was really surprised how much horse I had up the backside. When I pulled him he hit another gear and though we were in tough on the final turn I knew we’d win it.”

Owned by his trainer Tyler Nostadt, Runaway Energy made his first seasonal start and paid $7.90 for win.

The 20-year-old trainer and aspiring driver, a recent arrival from Canada, moved to the area with some 20 horses.

“I just need four more qualifying races to get my license,” Nostadt offered while having his picture taken in the winner’s circle.

He also harnessed a winner earlier on the card when B B Smash scored a 1:58 victory with driver Jimmy Taggart, Jr. at the controls.