by Matt Sparacino, publicity director, Harrington Raceway

Harrington, DE — Sylvia Burke, John Howard and James Koran’s Maltese Artist ($29.60, Yannick Gingras) overcame post eight to win the $345,500 inaugural Bobby Quillen Memorial Final Monday at Harrington Raceway in 1:52.

It was the richest race ever at Delaware’s half-mile racetrack.

Fotowon

Maltese Artist and driver Yannick Gingras stand in the winner’s circle following their victory in the inaugural Bobby Quillen Memorial Final.

Gingras left hard from post eight and got the lead to the opening quarter in 26.2 seconds. Jereme’s Jet (Tony Morgan) pulled from the pocket and assumed command to a half mile in 55.3 and three quarters in 1:23.4.

With Mypanmar battling first over, Maltese Artist surged by Jeremes Jet in the stretch for the win. Western Ace closed ground for third.

“Yeah it worked out okay,” said Gingras of the outside draw. “I had him ready to go and fired off the wings. I figured if something would happen we would go pretty fast and Tony let me go. He came right back, and I got a good trip form there. The horse raced great.”

For Maltese Artist, it was his 11th win of the year as his seasonal earnings ballooned to nearly $1 million. He has now earned approximately $1.7 million in his career.

The race honored late Delaware legislator Bobby Quillen, a popular member in the local community and the Harrington Raceway Board of Directors who passed away in September of 2004. He was a regular at the racetrack and always had the best interest of horsemen in mind. His sister Grace Wanda Quillen and brothers Frank and Francis were present in the winner’s circle.

Also present was Delaware Senator Thurman Adams Jr., who was a good friend of the race’s namesake.

“This is a special night and it makes it special because anyone who knew Bobby, knew he was a true supporter of Harrington Raceway,” said Adams. “He and I have worked together for many years and I am just so happy to be part of this evening in remembrance of Bobby.”