Ahi Sunshine Secures Victory in Saratoga's Premier Pace Event

Amidst the drizzly conditions, Quebec native Ahi Sunshine proved to be the standout performer on Saturday evening's race card at Saratoga Casino Hotel, clinching victory in the challenging $20,270 Winners Over/Open Handicap Pace from a strategic position.

Guided by Matty Athearn and under the tutelage of Jackie Greene, Ahi Sunshine, starting from the innermost post, tactically positioned himself in second place behind Skyway Victor, steered by Mitchell Cushing. Skyway Victor maintained a brisk pace with fractions of :28.1, :57, and 1:25, with Ahi Sunshine shadowing closely.

The race intensified in the final turn when the favoured Rocknroll Runa A, driven by Larry Stalbaum, surged into contention, setting the stage for a thrilling stretch duel. In a dramatic finish, Ahi Sunshine surged ahead in the last furlong, securing victory by 1-1/4 lengths in a swift time of 1:54.1. Skyway Victor settled for second place, while Rocknroll Runa A claimed the third spot.

Owned by Janie Kellogg, the four-year-old progeny of Sunshine Beach and Racey Miss notched his second win in four starts this season and his ninth win in 33 career outings. Ahi Sunshine has amassed a total of $155,978 in career earnings. Despite being the third betting choice at 5-1, Ahi Sunshine rewarded his supporters with a $12 return for a winning ticket.