by Paul Ramlow, USTA Internet News Editor

Lexington, KY — The $10,000 Open Pace on Saturday at The Red Mile went to Joseph Muscara’s Mister Big and driver David Miller in a time of 1:48.4.

The 4-year-old Grinfromeartoear-World’s Sweetheart stallion made his 11th trip to the winner’s circle in 24 season’s starts, while increasing his bankroll to $1,168,724 this year for trainer Virgil Morgan, Jr.

Gold Dust Beach and Dave Palone cut the fractions in this mile, reaching the quarter in :27, the half in :54.3 and the three-quarters in 1:22.2.

Mister Big came first-over down the backstretch, gained the front at the top of the stretch, and then drew off to the easy victory thanks to a sizzling final panel. Palone Ranger (Ron Pierce) took second money, while Holborn Hanover (George Brennan) was third. Gold Dust Beach faded to seventh.