from Hollywood Dayton Raceway

Dayton, OH — North America’s leading dash driver Aaron Merriman made a special trip to Hollywood Dayton Raceway on Thursday night (Sept. 13), primarily to sit behind trainer Chris Beaver’s Moonshiner Hanover in the $18,500 Open Trot. The three-hour commute proved worthwhile for Merriman as he guided the 4-year-old son of Andover Hall to a 1:55.2 victory over William Star (Dan Noble) and Elmo Blatch (Tyler Lough).

Holton photo

Defending nationaldash champion Aaron Merriman guides Moonshiner Hanover to an impressive 1:55.2victory in Hollywood Dayton’s initial Open Trot of the meet.

Dispatched at 7-5 odds from the 7-hole, Moonshiner Hanover got away fourth through the :27.3 opening panel, moved into second-over position on the outside at the :57 halfway point, stuck his nose in front at the 1:26 third quarter clocking, then fought off mild stretch drive challenges for his sixth seasonal score.

This winner has been racing on the East Coast all summer, managing consistent top three finishes at The Meadowlands, Harrah’s Philadelphia and The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono.

His 2018 earnings are now over $148,000, much of that earned with a place finish in the $250,000 Graduate final. His lifetime bankroll eclipsed the $560,000 mark with the victory.

Trainer Chris Beaver shares ownership of Moonshiner Hanover with partners Synerco Ventures Inc. and Bill Manes of Ontario.

Hollywood Dayton Raceway will present programs Friday night (Sept. 14) and Saturday night (Sept. 15) at 6:15 p.m., then take a five-day hiatus in deference to Little Brown Jug week at the Delaware, Ohio. Live racing will then resume on Friday night (Sept. 21) and maintain a five days per week schedule through the rest of the year.