Friday Saratoga

Campanile (No Pan Intended) prevailed in the feature on opening night of the 2016 harness racing season at Saratoga Casino and Raceway.

One of the most consistent mares at the Spa in the past several years, the Chris Marino-trained Campanile moved out to the early lead in the $12,000 Friday feature which was contested at a distance of a mile and 1/16.

Driver Austin Siegelman guided the seven year old mare through second and third quarters in 29 seconds before holding off a late challenge from the race's favorite Bye Bye Michelle (Mark Beckwith) to win in 2:00.4.

Longshot Jenna's Patriot (Jim Devaux) came charging hard to finish third.

It was the fourth victory of the season for Campanile who has recorded wins at four different tracks in 2016.

The 75th anniversary weekend celebration continues at Saratoga on Saturday night with a 6:45pm first post.

There will be a t-shirt giveaway on Sunday afternoon in conjunction with the matinee that begins at 12:15pm.

Mike Sardella