By Darin Gagne for Running Aces Casino Hotel and Racetrack
July 11, 2022
On Sunday night (July 10), the all-time trotting track record holder Pridecrest reminded racing fans that he can never be counted out at Running Aces by posting his 53rd career win in the $16,500 Open Handicap Trot.
Driver Mooney Svendsen was quite content to sit back in the early stages of the contest in the fifth position while Mind Yown Business (Brady Jenson) and Bordogna (Rick Magee) both gunned for the early lead.
As soon as Bordogna settled on top, heavy favorite All American N (Luke Plano) came calling and that pair engaged in a deep battle that lasted for more than a half mile.
Svendsen got Pridecrest rolling in the first over position down the backstretch with Mandeville (Nick Roland) picking up the live cover.
All American N finally got by a stubborn Bordogna as they rounded the far turn and he led the feature race field into the homestretch. However, Pridecrest was looming large and loaded with trot. He was able to rally late while Mandeville tipped wide off the cover and also charged to the wire, just edging out All American N for the place money.
Pridecrest was a half-length on top at the wire in the 1:56 mile.
Loyal fans of the impressive 10-year-old son of Angus Hall were rewarded handsomely with a $18.80 mutuel return. Pridecrest now shows career earnings of $470,833. He is owned by Christopher Schick and is trained by Kathie Plested.
Trainer and driver teamed up for a double on the program.
CR Promise To You (Brady Jenson, $2.60) delivered a gate-to-wire winning performance in the $9,700 sophomore Open Trot in 1:57.2, chalking up two wins in a row.
Jenson wasted no time in getting the Tom Ridge filly to the front of affairs and was well in control throughout the mile.
Triggered (Svendsen) followed intently from second while Wilamar Spark (Dean Magee) rallied impressively from the back to pick up the second spot.
The winner is owned by Rick and Mr. Caroll Huffman and Keith Wilson and is trained by Justin Anfinson, who also conditions the runner up.
Live Racing returns to Running Aces on Tuesday (July 12) with first post at 7 p.m. (CDT) for the track’s ‘Christmas at The Races’ program, which will feature an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as family activities and Dollar Night specials. Guests who bring and donate a new unwrapped toy will receive a free live racing program. The night will also play host to many local event sponsors and will benefit Toys For Joy.
