12-1 longshot gets pot of gold at Freehold

MANALAPAN, NJ — March 18, 2023 — Freehold Raceway hosted its annual Saint Patrick’s Day Race yesterday (March 17). In the third race on the harness racing card every horse was driven by a driver of Irish descent.

While many of the drivers were familiar faces at Freehold Raceway, James Whelan and his nephew Michael Whelan made the trip from Canada to join the festivities.

Freehold’s very own Irish Joe Hanney took home the win and bragging rights over his fellow countrymen. Hanney left from the rail position with Sheeza Shark N (Four Starzzz Shark) to take a seat behind the odds-on favorite Eden Paige N and Jim Marohn Jr.

Hanney pulled Sheeza Shark N at the top of the lane after a perfect pocket trip to take the win in 1:57.4. The 13-year-old mare is owned and trained by Laurie Molnar. Eden Paige N finished second with Macjectic Toddy N and Steve Smith closing for third.

A 12-1 longshot, Sheeza Shark N paid $26.40 to win.

SHEEZA SHARK N REPLAY

Freehold resumes live racing today (March 18), with a post time of 12:30 pm.

For complete race results, click here.

by Courtney Stafford, for the SBOANJ