by Marv Bachrad, publicity director, Dover Downs

Dover, DE — Jeremes Sweetheart, after finishing second four times in the $20,000 Mares Open Pace, finally made the winner’s circle in the feature on Monday (Feb. 3) at Dover Downs.

Fotowon photo

Jeremes Sweetheart was a narrow winner in the Mares Open Pace.

With Ron Pierce driving, the Jereme’s Jet-Fox Valley Evanna mare sat directly behind Cooking The Books, who had led from early in the race. The 5-year-old, trained by Eric Ell for owners Ken Wood, Bill Dittmar and Steve Iaquinta, rolled along the passing lane to notch a 1:52.2 triumph by a half-length. Race favorite Mononchromatic, starting from outside post eight, raced on the outside with Corey Callahan for most of the mile and had to settle for third.

A 15-1 shot, Make Magic, won a photo finish in 1:53.4, besting three others at the wire in a $14,500 Mares Winners Over Pace. Trace Tetrick was at the controls of the Western Ideal-Little Miss K 4-year-old. It was Make Magic’s first win of the season. She is owned by Tom Kemp and trained by Jim King. Winbak Speedi (Allan Davis) led from the start until the final stride. Beechwood Diana (Ross Wolfenden) edged Grandview Hanover (George Dennis) for show money.

Ron Pierce, Trace Tetrick and trainer Jim King registered three wins each. Chris Page had a double.