Mister Daytona N (American Ideal) made his local debut on Saturday night at Saratoga Casino Hotel as trainer-driver Mike Simons brought the six year old to town to compete in the $14,500 Open Pace. Mister Daytona N, who has been a regular at Yonkers this season, flashed some uncharacteristic early speed in his debut at the Spa as Simons marched him out to the early lead in the feature. After putting up a first quarter in 27.2, Mister Daytona N slowed things down significantly before reaching the half in 57.2. From there, the talented invader accelerated and never stopped. With veteran local star Artful Way (Frank Coppola Jr) closing in heading to three quarters, Simons stepped on the gas and Mister Daytona N responded. All the while, Deetzy (Bruce Aldrich Jr) got the pocket ride and those three pacers drew away turning for home before Mister Daytona N stopped the timer in 1:51.4 to win by a length and a half. Deetzy was the runner-up in the Open while the favored Artful Way had to settle for the show spot. Mister Daytona N, who was the public’s second choice in the wagering at odds of 9-5, paced his final half in 54.2 highlighted by a 26.4 last quarter en route to what was his fourth win of the season. The exacta paid $29.80 while the triple returned $104 in the Saturday feature.
Live racing resumes on Tuesday night at Saratoga with a first post time set for 7:05pm.
Mike Sardella
Photo: Melissa SImser-Iovino
