Tony Beltrami and Wilberforce win AHDC amateur trot

Wilkes-Barre, PA — Tony Beltrami ushered in the Fall season at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono on Sunday (Sept. 26), guiding Wilberforce to a decisive win in the AHDC amateur trot.

The duo tripped the timer in 1:57.3, wisely using the passing lane on their way to victory.

It was another hotly contested opening quarter as Wilberforce left strong, but then yielded to Southwind Frost and Robert Hechkoff as they scorched the opening panel in :27.1. Knowing his horse needed a breather, Hechkoff slowed the second quarter to a pedestrian :31.2, allowing early breaker Slated To Win and Anthony Verruso a chance to regain ground and come into contention first over.

Southwind Frost was up to the challenge, reeling off a :28.4 third split, rebuffing the strong first over bid. But the quickening fractions took their toll on the leader greatly, helping Wilberforce, who sat a perfect pocket trip. Beltrami guided his charge into the passing lane to get up for the half-length victory. Zooming, who sat third on the rail for most of the mile, was able to rush up and grab the show dough for Steve Oldford.

For Wilberforce, it was the gelding’s fourth win of the season and 32nd lifetime. Tony Beltrami notched his career best 13th win of 2021. The duo returned $4.40.

The AHDC will now move to Saturday racing, starting with next week’s event on Oct. 2.

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