from Harness Publicists across North America

Thursday’s (May 27) edition of Racing Roundup features results stories from Scioto Downs, Plainridge Racecourse and Cal-Expo.

Shackleton Hanover dazzles in Scioto win

Columbus, OH — Shackleton Hanover, a 4-year-old son of Real Artist, ignored post 10 in the second tier to overwhelm his rivals on Thursday night at Scioto Downs. He won by 8-1/2 lengths in 1:57 over the rain-soaked surface.

The gelded pacer was still eighth after the first half-mile, but driver Jack Dailey had him out and moving with determination. He seized control in the third quarter and simply drew away from his rivals with disdain.

Jack Dailey’s brother Jeff piloted Gator Hayes to a second-place finish while Fox Valley Lingo got up for third.

It was the first win in two starts this season for Shackleton Hanover, and only the second win of his career. Ironically, both victories were timed in 1:57.

Shackleton Hanover is owned by Gary Dee Cameron of Richwood, Ohio, and trained by Don Pfister.

— Dean Hoffman

Plainridge Racecourse
The toteboard at Plainridge Racecourse was in the spotlight again as big mutuel payoffs were on display during Thursday’s racing program. Driver-trainer Bonnie Rush and her trotter B J Randy had fans toteboard gazzing after she rallied her horse from the nine post at 55-1 in the fifth race and produced a winning payoff of $112. The 9-6-8 trifecta returned $5,924.40. The fireworks continued in the ninth race nightcap after the favorite, Hey Shazam scored the victory and Mchilles Heel paid a whopping $272 to place. Driver-trainer Graham Lewis upset the field in the eighth race, scoring with Freedom Fry at 17-1.

Cal-Expo
Filly and Mare claiming pacers were in the Cal-Expo spotlight on Thursday as Persuade Me got back on the winning track to record her fifth win in her last six outings. Owned by Cynthia Rios in partnership with trainer Bob Johnson, Persuade Me won ($3.20) by one length in 1:58. Ogs Si Bon was a nice second, and Elegant Emma finished with pace while a half-length farther back in third.