Dan Patch field taking shape

Trainers are already reserving space in the upcoming $200,000 Dan Patch Invitational Pace set for Saturday, April 28. The race will offer 10 spots by invitation only to some of the nation’s top older pacers as it heads into the 14th edition of the event.

Heading the list of expected entrants is Shark Gesture, winner of the $610,000 Breeders’ Crown last fall. The Cam’s Card Shark four-year-old has more than $750,000 in career earnings and a career mark of 1:49.1 Trained by Ervin Miller, Shark Gesture has recently qualified at Balmoral Park in preparation for his return to the track in 2007.

Joining Shark Gesture on the list of hopefuls is My Boy David, trained by Homer Hochstetler. The Cole Muffler son has earnings in excess of $900,000 and a career mark of 1:47.4. My Boy David is currently racing in Chicago at Balmoral Park.

Other early contenders for a spot in the Dan Patch is Mister Big, winner in seven of nine starts for 2007, Load The Dice, who won recently at Pompano Park in a time of 1:49.3, and local horse Rebelman. Rebelman won his seasonal debut last week at Hoosier Park in preparation for the race. Steve Brannan owns, trains, and drives the Electric Yankee son, who makes his second appearance in the Dan Patch Invitational.

Activities will begin Dan Patch Night when gates open at 5:30 p.m. The first 1,500 fans age 18 and over will receive a commemorative Dan Patch key chain depicting last year’s winner Hop Sing. Coupons will be distributed for the key chains at the door and can be redeemed following the third race. (Hoosier Park press release)

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