Andverson, IN — Rip Wheeler and driver Brandon Bates turned in a valiant stretch rally to pull a 7-1 upset in Friday’s (Aug. 26) single $97,000 Indiana Sires Stakes event for 3-year-old pacing colts and geldings at Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & Casino.

Leaving from post seven in the talented field of nine, Rip Wheeler settled along the rail in fifth while a host of others left for position. Ponda Warrior (driven by Jimmy Whittemore) led through the opening panel in :26.3 but eventually yielded to post time favorite JK Victory (Trace Tetrick), who led to the half in :55. When the field reached the third station in 1:22.1, Bates had Rip Wheeler on the front and on a mission. Using a :26.3 closing kick, Rip Wheeler was able to keep his challengers three lengths at bay in a lifetime best 1:48.4. Ponda Warrior held on for second while Sure Thing Herman (Atlee Bender) rounded out the trifecta.

Rip Wheeler stopped the timer in 1:48.4 to capture the $97,000 ISS for 3-year-old pacing colts and geldings. Dean Gillette Photography.

Rip Wheeler returned $16.20 to win.

Trained by Walter Haynes Jr. for owners Jeff and David E. Fought, the gelded son of Rockin Image—Novascotia Hanover recorded his sixth win from 16 starts this season and pushed his lifetime earnings over $100,000. The victory was also one of three driving wins on the card for Bates.

Live harness racing at Harrah’s Hoosier Park will continue with a 12-race card on Saturday (Aug. 27); post time has been adjusted to 4 p.m. due to a concert from the Temptations following the races. The card will feature two divisions of Indiana Sires Stakes for 3-year-old pacing fillies. For more information on live racing at Harrah’s Hoosier Park, visit www.harrahshoosierpark.com.