Bell On Wheels wins 21st of 2009

She was returning from a 10-week layoff and racing free-legged for the first time, but on Wednesday at The Meadows Bell On Wheels did what she does best. On the track’s closing night of 2009, the 3-year-old filly won her 21st race of the year, elevating her to a tie with the 4-year-old pacing mare Shortest Distance for most 2009 victories by a Standardbred in North America.

 

Roger Hammer campaigned Bell On Wheels on the Pennsylvania Fair circuit for much of the year, but Wednesday’s start marked her debut for her new connections, owner Jim Snyder, trainer Rodney Bolon and driver Kyle Bolon. The 3-year-old daughter of Western Hanover-Bellys Up exploded to the front and put the field away with a :28 final quarter.

 

Bell On Wheels, who has 33 wins in 53 career starts, scored in 1:57.4, a career best. TSM Sparkling Gal was 1 3/4 lengths back, in second, with Jo Pa’s Dragoness third.

 

The closing night feature, the $27,500 Preferred Handicap trot, also had a familiar feel to it, as Heza Challenger overpowered a strong field despite his post nine assignment. He scored in 1:55 for Ray Paver, trainer Bruce Riegle and owner Robert Kauffman.

 

Master Begonia was second by two lengths, with the first-over Dennis third. It was the fifth win in the last six starts--all in The Meadows’ top trot--for the 5-year-old Chip Chip Hooray-Ten Queens gelding.

 

Aaron Merriman drove four winners and Dick Stillings three on the 15-race card.

 

The Meadows will open its 2010 season Monday, Jan. 11, offering four live cards per week in January. Post time Monday through Wednesday will be at 12:55 p.m., eastern while Friday cards will begin at 3:55 p.m. (The Meadows)