Alexachase wins $40,000 Philly feature

After controlling a nondescript early pace, Johnny and Kimberley Waite's Alexachase ($18.80) was an upset winner in Wednesday's $40,000 Mares Open Handicap Pace on Wednesday afternoon at Harrah's Philadelphia.

 

With Kiwi standout Royal Cee Cee assigned the outside post five and racing from off the pace in her seasonal debut, Alexachase was able to settle just off the pacesetters early, brushing to clear Jeremes Sweetheart (George Napolitano) after a :28 first quarter before strolling through a :57 half mile.

 

On the backstretch and into the far turn, Ron Pierce challenged first-over with Royal Cee Cee, forcing Alexachase to accelerate in to the far turn, posting a :27.4 third sectional. Meanwhile, the pocket-sitting Jeremes Sweetheart was poised to challenge up the open stretch, just unable to wear down a game Alexachase in the late stages while Royal Cee Cee flattened out off the corner, staying on a very close third in 1:53.1.

 

Bret Brittingham drove the 5-year-old Bettor's Delight mare for trainer Don Brittingham.

 

David Miller led all drivers on the afternoon with four winners. (Harrah's Philadelphia)