Gibson Blue Chip (Artiscape) stayed hot on Saturday night in the feature at Saratoga Casino Hotel. The seven year old pacer was claimed two weeks ago by trainer Norm Dessureault and scored his second win in as many weeks. Gibson Blue Chip, who went from last to first to prevail last week in a career best 1:53.1, moved out to the early lead in Saturday’s $10,175 feature in pursuit of back to back jacks. Stephane Bouchard piloted the rejuvenated pacer and got him to the top in an opening quarter of 27.4. Tested throughout the majority of the mile, Gibson Blue Chip surged away late from pocket-sitting favorite Nesh Cruiser (Frank Coppola Jr) before stopping the timer in 1:53.1 to match the lifetime mark he set last week. Nesh Cruiser, who was also looking to repeat on Saturday night, finished second while Espen De Vie (Jim Devaux) earned the show spot. Gibson Blue Chip was the 2-1 second choice and returned $6.90 to win while the exacta and triple paid $8.90 and $24.80, respectively. Gibson Blue Chip is owned by Anthony McGrath of Troy, NY.
Live racing continues on Sunday afternoon at Saratoga with a matinee beginning at 12:15pm.
Mike Sardella
Photo: Melissa Simser-Iovino
