Grand Cayman worked a perfect trip and won the Blue Hen/Open Handicap Pace at Bally’s Dover on Thursday (Dec. 29).
Penzance Hanover left alertly off the gate. Grand Cayman protected pylon position in the pocket as they raced to the quarter. Penzance Hanover, the 2-1 betting favourite, was allowed to cut out fractions of :26.4, :55.2 and 1:22.4.
Incaseyoudidntknow, the only mare in the race, moved off the pegs from fifth and raced uncovered before the half. Her bid stalled pacing down the backstretch and clogged the outside racing lanes.
Grand Cayman protected his pylon position throughout the mile and surged along the inside, passing a leg-weary Penzance Hanover in deep stretch. Grand Cayman won by 1-1/4 lengths in 1:51.2. Island Of The Sea took second and Mack took third.
Grand Cayman is owned by Vincent P. Ferriero Jr. of Deland, Florida. George Napolitano Jr. drove the Crissy Crissman-Bier trainee. He paid $12.60 to win.
George Napolitano Jr. earned a driving triple on the betting card.
Racing continues from Bally’s Dover on Monday (Jan. 2). Post time is 4:30 p.m. (EST).
(Bally's Dover)