Stunning Upset as Big Stretch Mark Emerges Victorious in Freehold Preferred Race

The thrilling $16,216 Preferred Handicap Pace that took place at Freehold Raceway on February 10 captivated racing enthusiasts. Against the backdrop of nail-biting excitement, Mark Herschberger steered the 19-1 underdog, Big Stretch Mark, to a remarkable victory in a fiercely contested stretch battle.

Commencing the race from post three, Herschberger, in collaboration with trainer Laurie Molnar, strategically settled Big Stretch Mark into the fourth position along the rail after the wings folded.

Just before reaching the halfway point, seizing a favourable opportunity, the dynamic duo of Herschberger and Big Stretch Mark manoeuvred to the outside, carefully positioning themselves behind a horse for cover. Maintaining a second-over position for more than a quarter-mile, they patiently bided their time.

As they approached the final turn, Herschberger unleashed an audacious move, pulling the 11-year-old gelding three-wide to engage in a thrilling head-to-head battle with the early frontrunners. However, the competition was fierce, and they weren't the only ones with a rally left in their tank. The field stretched six-wide across the track, with each contender within striking distance of the lead as they thundered towards the finish line. When the dust settled, it was Big Stretch Mark edging out the competition by a mere nose, crossing the wire in an impressive 1:55.2. Astonishingly, six horses finished within half a length of the triumphant leader, further highlighting the intensity of the race. Even the eighth-place finisher fell short by a mere 2-1/4 lengths, showcasing the remarkable level of competitiveness.

The ownership of the victorious Big Stretch Mark belongs to Donato Falcicchio and Paul Jessop, who undoubtedly celebrated their horse's exceptional triumph. Those who placed a win bet on Big Stretch Mark were rewarded handsomely, with a payout of $41.60.

Mark Herschberger's exceptional performance extended beyond this race, as he secured a total of three wins on the 13-race card, establishing himself as a rising star at Freehold Raceway. With an impressive track record of 13 wins in 60 starts so far in 2024, Herschberger's talent and dedication continue to shine through.

Vinny Ginsburg also showcased his remarkable skills, maintaining his winning momentum from the previous Saturday, where he achieved a grand slam. Continuing his streak of success, Ginsburg achieved a triple this weekend, further solidifying his position as a formidable force in the racing world.

In addition to the enthralling races, Freehold Raceway had the honour of hosting a visit from the "Hearts and Horseshoes" club, a prominent Monmouth County 4-H group. Over 20 children and their parents were treated to an insider's tour of the backside facilities, providing them with a unique opportunity to witness the behind-the-scenes action in the paddock. The group enjoyed a delightful lunch in the paddock kitchen, graciously provided by Theo, before heading over to the grandstand to witness the exhilarating races that unfolded throughout the day.

Another noteworthy highlight from Saturday's races was Anthony Verruso's remarkable performance in the $12,162 American Harness Drivers Club (AHDC) Trot aboard the talented Landia. Starting from post five, Verruso tactically positioned Landia in sixth place as Hammer Creek, driven by John Calabrese, assumed an early lead, clocking an impressive first quarter time of :29.2. Hammer Creek maintained its position at the front, while Inukchuk Chuck, driven by Tony Beltrami, faced setbacks, losing ground from the pocket and allowing Hammer Creek to establish a comfortable four-length advantage by the halfway mark, timed at :59.4.

Undeterred by the challenging circumstances, Hammer Creek continued its steady pace along the backstretch while facing an impending challenge. Yogi Sheridan, driving Drazzmatazz, initiated a first-over push, with Landia closely tailing behind, as they approached the three-quarters mark, timed at 1:30.2.

Despite Drazzmatazz's valiant efforts, Hammer Creek maintained its lead as they entered the final turn. However, Verruso unleashed Landia's full potential, propelling the horse to surge ahead. As they spun for home, Landia swiftly overtook Hammer Creek, ultimately securing a commanding victory with a time of 2:01, leaving Hammer Creek to settle for second place, trailing by two lengths. Drazzmatazz secured third place, while the 6-5 favourite, Empereurthebest (FR), driven by James Slendorn, finished fourth.

Landia, an exceptional five-year-old mare sired by Yankee Glide, is owned and trained by Donald Maiorano. Despite being the third choice in the betting odds, Landia provided a winning payout of $10.80, leaving her supporters elated.

The AHDC action will resume next Saturday, February 17, at Freehold Raceway, promising another exhilarating chapter in the world of harness racing.