Flanders makes impact in Scarborough qualifiers

While winter still begrudges the coming of spring along the southern Maine coastline, a sure sign of seasonal change at long last occurred on Thursday as qualifying races were once again carded at Scarborough Downs.

Awakening from an old-fashioned, snow-filled February, the Scarboroughoval was tuned to perfection as the sun rose on a new season and a five race card. The temperatures approached near-normal range as the combatants prepared in the paddock and more than one local observer noted the appearance of robins in the infield--poor misguided and foolish birds that they may be (the robins that is, not the observers).

The Rick Flanders Stable made an immediate statement of readiness scoring three wins and a second-place finish from four horses entered; with Tuscarora Lily, Chavez and Wherewegoin all finding the winner's circle during the morning events.

Flanders, a New Hampshirenative who currently stables a string of 15 at the Downs, took firm control of the raceway on Thursday sending all three winners quickly to the top while apparently holding plenty in reserve–certainly a testament to diligent road work over the long winter downtime.

Trainer Mark Harris’ stock was equally as impressive–effortlessly garnering a win and two thirds during the a.m. performance as he steered Cohenucopia down victory lane with Bikini Kinda Guy and Stephs Pretty Hat tallying minor honors.

Harris, another member of the local backstretch contingent, continues to contest his prerequisite qualifying drives and appears well on his way toward a speedy upgrade to provisional license status.

Qualifying races will continue at the Downsevery Wednesday and Saturday morning leading up toward the April 11 Opening Day festivities.

Scarborough Downs will proudly feature live harness excitement every Friday and Saturday at 4:15 p.m. (EDT) with the popular Sunday matinee cards rolling in behind the gate quite promptly at 1:30 p.m. (Scarborough Downs)

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