Denslow Hanover (Yankee Cruiser) stayed razor sharp on Saturday night at Saratoga Casino Hotel. The Don Billings trainee is riding the streak of his life and made his first career start in the Open Pace on Saturday. Finishing first or second in eight consecutive starts heading into his try in the $14,500 feature, Denslow Hanover drew post three in the Open for his red hot connections of trainer Don Billings and driver Jimmy Devaux. Defending Horse of the Year and regular Open force Artful Way (Frank Coppola Jr) moved out to the early lead on Saturday and though he felt no pressure throughout the first three-quarters of a mile, Artful Way set sizzling fractions. After pacing a first half in 55.1, Artful Way clicked off three quarters in 1:22.2. Denslow Hanover began to make his move and surged off cover in the stretch taking dead aim on Artful Way. The six year old Denslow Hanover got up in time to prevail in a career-best 1:51.4 and register his first Open victory. Artful Way was a solid second while longshot Newbie (Harry Landy) earned the show spot. Denslow Hanover paid $21.80 to win and led an exacta and triple that returned $72 and $604, respectively. Devaux piloted six winners on the Saturday program, three of which coming for trainer Don Billings. Devaux and Billings also teamed up for the win in Friday’s feature as Bye Bye Michelle prevailed in the Fillies and Mares Open.
Live racing resumes on Tuesday night with a first post time set for 7:05pm.
Mike Sardella
Photo: Mikayla Gray
