Dayton, OH – Despite leaving from the outside post in a talented field of 10 open pacers, Swingtown proved best Halloween night (Oct. 31) at Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, grinding to score a hard-fought victory in the $30,000 Open Handicap.
Driven by Chris Page and trained by Ron Burke, Swingtown sat just off the early pace as Win Lous Or Draw (Cam McCown) blasted from the gate and led the field past the opening panel in :26.3.
Page had Swingtown on top as they crossed the line for the first time. The half was in :55.2. Marvin Luna had the bettor’s choice Rock Shines Again out and challenging at the three-quarters in 1:22.4.
As they headed down the lane, a pocket sitting Win Lous Or Draw ducked into the passing lane and Rock Shines Again went to the outside, but Swingtown was too strong.
The 4-year-old son of Downbytheseaside crossed the line a half-length ahead of Win Lous Or Draw. Rock Shines Again was another half-length back in third.
The winner of $1.1 million is owned by the quartet of Burke Racing Stable, Hatfield Stables, Knox Services and R A S Racing.
Swingtown returned $9.40 to win as the second choice in the wagering.
Despite finishing second in the Open, the driver/trainer combo of Cam and Jessica McCown enjoyed a big night. The married couple recorded three wins, a pair of seconds and three thirds on the 14-race card. The McCown’s scored with Handsome Sir (1:51.3), Medoland Terror (1:51.4) and Nashing Hill (1:51). Trevor Smith and Chris Page also recorded driving triples.
Racing action returns to the Dayton oval on Tuesday (Nov. 3). Free past performance programs are available at hollywooddaytonraceway.com/racing.