Dover, DE – Penzance Hanover benefitted from a perfect journey and won the Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday (Feb. 22) night.

Penzance Hanover takes the Open Pace at Dover on Thursday night. Fotowon photo.

Mack and Penzance Hanover launched off the wings of the gate for the early advantage. Energetic Hanover joined the party and rushed to the top and passed opening quarter in :26.3 Penzance Hanover retreated to the pocket. Energetic Hanover and George Napolitano Jr. slowed down the pace, reaching the half in :55.4, a :29.1 quarter.

Baba O’Riley moved first-over past the half and was joined by Belmont Royale N, who raced second-over on the rim and in hot pursuit of the pace-setter Energetic Hanover braced for the challenge and passed the three-quarters in 1:23.2 (:27.3) Penzance Hanover, the 6/5 betting favorite, waited patiently to time his move.

Driver Art Stafford Jr was able to surge late along the pylons and won by a length and a half. The ten-year-old, paced the mile in 1:52 for his second consecutive victory. He paid $4.40 for the win.

Penzance Hanover (Somebeachsomewhere) is owned, trained and driven by Arthur Stafford Jr of Felton, DE.
Jack’s Shadow N closed well to finish second. Mack saved ground along the pylons and finished third.

Bally’s Dover races Monday thru Thursday. Post time is 4:30 p.m.