by Mike Sweeney, for Scarborough Downs

Scarborough, ME — The gates swung open for the 63rd consecutive season at Scarborough Downs as Maine harness racing sprung to life on Saturday (March 30) in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd.

Derek Davis photo

Johnny Z was a 1:56.3 winner in the Free For All on Saturday.

Class came through in the opener as the venerable Armbro Brando vaulted to the early lead and refused to be passed, securing the 43rd victory of his illustrious career and handing Gary Mosher bragging rights as the first winner of the 2013 meeting, timed in 1:58.1.

Armbro Brando, making his first start in the State of Maine on Saturday, is owned by Richard Armstrong of New Brunswick and trained by Bo Sowers.

Johnny Z scored a minor upset of sorts and claimed victory in the $5,500 Free For All, roaring from off the pace and drawing clear in the final strides, completing the course timed in 1:56.3.

Last season’s driving champion, Shawn Thayer, sat in his customary seat behind the Randy Bickmore trainee who is owned by Kevin Gee of Portland.

Live racing resumes Easter Sunday with a 1:05 p.m. starting time. The following week, the schedule expands to include Friday and Saturday (4 p.m. post), with the Sunday matinee at 1:05 p.m.