It’s a sure sign of warmer weather when Harrah’s Philadelphia opens for the season, and harness racing fans were holding their collective breath for picture-perfect weather for the start of the track’s 19th racing season. The temperature was in the mid-50’s at post time for the Friday card, with Sunday a bit warmer, and despite the windy conditions, the fans came out to catch the racing action.
Fans anxious to see their favorites like David Miller, Tim Tetrick, Dexter Dunn, George Napolitano Jr., and Todd McCarthy driving on the Chester track were thrilled to see the powerhouse drivers in the Winner’s Circle again after what seemed like a long winter.
Taking his place in the Announcer’s booth, Mike Bozich looked out over the track and felt that familiar anticipation of a new racing season. “Opening day is always special,” he said. “The horsemen and women of our sport put so much time and energy into our equine athletes, and it’s awesome to see them perform at a high level. It’s a great feeling to be able to call the best of the best.”
As Post Time approached, it was time for Starter Norton ‘Shoe’ Shoemaker and Starting Gate driver Andy Kean to get the races started. “It felt good to be back,” Shoe said. “The rain stopped right before the races so that was good. It’s great to be back for an other exciting year here at Harrah’s Philadelphia!”
Tim Tetrick was also enthusiastic about opening day. “It’s exciting to be back at it. Harrah’s Philadelphia opening is always a sign that Spring is here and the start of another great season,” he said prior to the races. “Hopefully it’s a successful year.” The Hall of Famer brought home 3 winners on the card, including the three-year-old Huntsville mare Obj for trainer Hunter Oakes; the Jeff Culipher-trained Always B Miki gelding Divine Right; and Feherty for Chuck Crissman Jr.
George Napolitano Jr. kicked off his Harrah’s/Pocono Downs circuit with a successful opening day at the Chester track. “The track settled in beautiful and it was actually perfect,” he said. “I think we started (the season) on a positive note.” George was particularly happy with his win with Will The Wizard A for the Bier Stable. “Sean Bier’s horse raced really good. I had a bunch of 2nds and I was totally happy; couple of them had been off for a while. Wayne Givens put me on two nice ones that were both 2nd. I was happy with the overall day. I’m really looking forward to a nice, healthy safe meet where everyone can earn some money.”
Others drivers with multiple wins on Friday included Dexter Dunn and Todd McCarthy with two each and Hall of Famer David Miller with 3 wins.
The Sunday card featured a $13,000 Pace, and David Miller piloted All Class to an impressive 1:49.3 win. Todd McCarthy continued his hot streak with 3 wins on Sunday.
Racing resumes Thursday and Friday with a 12:25 post. The spring schedule includes Sundays at 12:40, and in June, Wednesday will be added.
