After two quiet efforts to start the season, Four Starz Sue found his stride and won the $25,000 Open Pace on a rainy Friday evening at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Four Starz Sue, a 6-year-old gelding from the barn of trainer Carmine Fusco, had finished sixth in his first two starts this year after a 2008 season in which he earned over $212,000. He was still the betting favorite for Friday’s race at 8-5, and he took the lead with Jim Morrill Jr. in the bike shortly after the opening quarter mile. The biggest challenge came from True North Hanover, who worked out a pocket trip and tried the passing lane in the stretch. But Four Starz Sue answered the call and held on to win by a half-length in 1:51.1, the fastest time of the season at Pocono despite the rain and a track listed as "good." True North Hanover settled for second while Super Eighty Eight picked up the show. Owned by Four Starzzzz Stable LLC, Four Starz Sue, who was sired by The Panderosa, won for the 20th time in 65 lifetime races. The win pushed his career earnings past $339,000. (Pocono Downs)
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