Harrah’s Chester Week In Review
by James Witherite-Rieg, on-course commentator at Harrah’s Chester
Casino and Racetrack
Despite being overshadowed by Buck I St Pat’s 1:52.57 world-record
performance in the Maxie Lee Memorial Trot at Harrah’s Chester this
past week, many horses turned in noteworthy performances throughout
the week.
Sunday (May 25) afternoon’s Open Pace saw Mister Big ($3.40) return to
the races after a long string of qualifiers. Sitting second-over on
the far turn, Brian Sears tipped the five-year-old Grinfromeartoear
entire three-wide at the head of the stretch and nailed Philos Hanover
(Cat Manzi) at the line to secure a 1:50.0 win.
Tivoli Hanover ($17.20) was also victorious from the second-over
position, kicking off the cover of Noble Falcon to take the
Four-Year-Old Open in 1:49.4. Daniel Dube drove the gelded son of
Western Hanover. Hennessy Hanover (Ron Pierce) and For Starz Sue (Tim
Tetrick) also broke the 1:50 mark, turning in miles of 1:49.2 and
1:49.3, respectively.
The Mares Open Pace on Monday (May 26) afternoon saw My Little Dragon
($4.40) turn in a simply dominant performance, brushing to the front
just after the quarter and drawing clear by 6-3/4 lengths in a 1:50.1
mile. Australian Andrew McCarthy handled the driving duties on the
five-year-old Dragon Again mare.
Wednesday’s (May 28) card saw Harrah’s Chester attract record handle,
with $885,009 wagered on the thirteen-race card. Harness racing in
greater Philadelphia continues to gain the respect of punters
nationwide, with average daily handle exceeding $540,000.
Be aware that on June 15 and August 17 (both Sunday afternoons),
Harrah’s Chester will employ a 3:00 p.m. first post.