by Robert Lieberman

Norwood, MA —The Billings series made their stop at Plainridge Racecourse on Labor Day, but to everyone’s surprise the out of town favorites weren’t able to get the job done, as Ray Marsland of Plainridge came from the back of the pack and powered his way to an incredible victory in 2:00.

In the field of seven, Robert Krivelin and Ace High Hall were sent off as the betting favorite, but unfortunately for him he made a break which eliminated him from the race. At the top was 16-year-old Joe Bongiorno with Mister Lucky Vec followed by Night’s Jazz with Joe Faraldo and in third was Laura MacNamara and Anahar Charlie as they reached the quarter in :29.

They headed towards the half with the positions all remaining the same as the group remained bunched together and the timer registered a :59 clocking for the half.

Ray Marsland was a winner in the Billings Series on Monday.

All of a sudden from literally the back of the pack, Nonna’s Power and Ray Marsland started to make their come from behind move as they passed horses like they were standing still. Before you knew it, Mister Lucky Vec was still leading but Anahar Charlie moved up to second and on the outside in third was Nonna’s Power, whose power pack appeared to be improving with each stride as they hit the three-quarters in 1:28.3.

They headed around the far turn and Nonna’s Power was not about to give up his drive as he continued to gain on the leader as they got closer to the wire. With 50 yards left to the wire, Nonna’s Power passed the leader and he made it to the finish line winning by 1-1/4 lengths in 2:00. Mister Lucky Vec was able to hang on for second and Anahar Charlie was able to stay on the wood the whole mile to nail down the show spot.

Marsland is no stranger to the winner’s circle with his third win in 15 starts, to go along with one second and four thirds for a UDR of .330.

Nonna’s Power is owned by Marsland and is trained by Ralph Andersen. The horse paid $22.20.