by Mike Farrell, Harness Racing Update

Fair Haven, NJ — Eager to take on St Elmo Hero, the connections of Hypnotic Blue Chip have challenged the undefeated gelding to a match race.

Francis Azur, Hypnotic Blue Chip’s owner, has issued a proposal that the two star geldings meet up one-on-one.

“We’re all about having fun and helping the sport out,” said Kevin McDermott, who trains Hypnotic Blue Chip. “I was a little reluctant, but Fran said put it out there.”

Here is Azur’s proposal: each side would pony up $25,000 with the money going to charity. The Hypnotic Blue Chip camp suggested the Harness Racing Hall of Fame and the Standardbred Retirement Foundation as beneficiaries.

The challenge caught John Barnard, St Elmo Hero’s owner, off guard. When contacted by Harness Racing Update, Barnard quickly shot down the idea.

“I don’t think a straight match race makes any sense,” Barnard said. “I would be much more interested in a competitive race. I’ve watched match races in Thoroughbreds and never thought it was a real good idea.”