Berlin, MD — The 4- and 5-year-old Maryland sired pacers competed on Wednesday (Aug. 4) at Ocean Downs.

The $25,700 mare pacing division saw the rivalry continue between Hillbilly Kisses (Rusty’s For Real), last year’s top 3-year-old filly, and Fire Me Up (Rusty’s All In), the champion at two and runner-up at three.

Reinsman Roger Plante Jr. sent Hillbilly Kisses flying out of the gate to grab control, with John Wagner settling Fire Me Up in the pocket, hoping for a passing lane surprise, but Hillbilly Kisses drew away down the stretch by 3-1/4 lengths in the 1:58.1 mile.

Steve LeBlanc trains the winner for Randy and Theodora Stevenson. Hillbilly Haven Farms was the breeder.

The $25,600 division for male pacers saw a battle to the quarter with Owzitgoin (Rusty’s For Real) parking Nvrfearlloydishere (Rusty’s All In), but driver John Wagner took the lead with Nvrfearlloydishere, holding off Owzitgoin by a length in the 1:56.2 mile.

Nvrfearlloydishere is owned and bred by Pam Wagner and trained by John Wagner.

Stakes action continues with the start of the 2-year-old season on Monday (Aug. 9) and Wednesday (Aug. 11).