The $11,000 Preferred Pace brought the Monday evening card at The Raceway at the Western Fair District to a thrilling close, with Wilcat Rocky securing a wire-to-wire victory.
Under the skilled guidance of driver Travis Henry, Wilcat Rocky dictated the pace with fractions of :27.3, :57.3, and 1:26.1. As they turned for home, the Dale Heard-trained contender fended off challenges from rivals, ultimately crossing the finish line 1-1/2 lengths ahead in 1:55.3. Cheddar Bay, driven by J Harris, claimed the second spot, followed by Docsphillycheese, guided by Alfred Carroll, in third place.
Bred by Wildcat Stables Inc., the five-year-old Hes Watching-Wildcat Beauty gelding co-owned by Antonio Tangreda notched his second victory of the year in eight starts, marking his impressive 18th win in 73 career outings.
With this triumph, Wilcat Rocky's lifetime earnings surged to $130,723. Bettors who backed him enjoyed a payout of $5.80 for a win, with odds set at 2-1.