Hypnotize casts a spell over rivals in Spitzer Memorial at Pompano Park
January 20, 2007,by Michael Costanzo, Public Relations Coordinator , ompano Park.
POMPANO BEACH, Fl – With an ideal second-over trip and a powerful three-wide move, driver Joe Pavia, Jr. and Hypnotize ($9.40) prevailed in the 3rd race feature event at Pompano Park Friday, the second annual Gerry Spitzer Memorial, a $10,000 open handicap pace for fillies and mares.
Starting from post four, Hypnotize was allowed to settle in fifth place along the rail while Golden Falcon N (David Ingraham) took the field through fractions of :27, :55.2, and 1:24.2. Following the first-over move of Hyde Park Hussie N (Anthony Napolitano), Hypnotize was angled out on the final turn to pass that rival, quickly pacing her way to the front.
The five-year-old daughter of Artiscape opened a clear lead in the stretch, and was able to hold off the late charge of post-time favorite Wilma Hall (Brett Miller), who crossed the wire second, beaten a length. Hypnotize stopped the clock in 1:53.2, a fifth of a second off her lifetime best. Hyde Park Hussie finished third.
The trip to the winner’s circle was the second straight for Hypnotize, who is owned by Louis Diffenback, Lisa Diffenback, William Mack, Jr., and Jim Mattison, who also trains the mare.
The Gerry Spitzer Memorial was named in memory of the long-time Pompano Park patron who passed away in 2005. His family and friends were present in the winner’s circle for the special race.