Billings to Pennacchio

Goshen, NY—The granddaddy of all amateur harness racing events, the CKG Billings Harness Drivers Series, presented a six-horse trot on Saturday afternoon at the Cradle of the Trotter and when the dust settled “Joltin’Joe” Pennacchio came away with a hard-fought victory when he guided PC Foreign Affair to a grinding 2:02.3 triumph over five others.

When the starter released the field “Bullet Bob” Davis hustled Caravelle to the lead from the 2-hole and got away with a soft :31.2 first panel. Sensing the slow pace Pennacchio, hustled PC Foreign Affair toward the front-end and slowly began to move forward which quickened the pace.

Still comfortably in front Davis braced for challenges after a 1:02 half but Caravelle maintained solid command as he led his competition by the three quarters in 1:32.1. At this point, PC Foreign Affair, was forced to go three-deep around Holiday Hanover (Scott “The driving Doctor” Woogen) and range alongside the leader. When the two straightened for home Pennacchio had the strong horse and they drew off to a length victory. Caravelle was second and Holiday Hanover took home the show dough.

Pennachio owns the winner who’s trained by Cory Stratton.

For full race results, click here.

by John Manzi for the CKG Billings Series