Chasethecloudsaway (Sunshine Beach) has become an instant star at Saratoga Casino Hotel in a very short period of time. The Chris Petrelli-trained mare prevailed in the Fillies and Mares Open on Tuesday for the fourth time in just five starts in the $15,000 feature for lady pacers. Luke Hanners has been the regular reinsman for the four year old who has displayed versatility in winning her races and hit the wire first for the incredible sixteenth time of the season overall. Chasethecloudsaway was the 1-5 betting favorite on Tuesday in the six-horse Open and left a bit to get away fourth in the early going. Hanners moved the star distaffer first-over at the half and she chipped away at the lead of rival Birch Island Betty (Billy Dobson) before putting her away once and for all at the head of the stretch. Chasethecloudsaway stopped the timer in 1:55.1 to continue her winning ways. Birch Island Betty extended her streak of hitting the board in the Open to eight by finishing as the runner-up on Tuesday while invader Shecandance N (Jimmy Devaux) earned the show spot. The exacta and triple in the race paid $5.90 and $13.20, respectively, with the big favorite on top. Chasethecloudsaway is owned by David Del Pozzo of Methuen, MA.
Live racing resumes on Sunday afternoon at Saratoga with a matinee beginning at noon. Prior to the race card, there will be an awards presentation taking place in the winner’s circle followed by a retirement ceremony for several 14 year old horses as the season begins to wrap up.
Mike Sardella
Photo: Cheyanne Mandy
