DOVER, Del— The last $30,000 Preferred Handicap and $27,500 Delaware Special and outstanding harness racing supporting program of 2016 headline the Thursday, Dec. 29 card at Dover Downs. Post time is 4:30 p.m.

Bamond Racing and J&T Silva Stables' Ideal Cowboy sports the last two $30,000 Preferred Handicap pace victories. This week Vic Kirby, who has been the leading driver for most of the current meet, will be in the bike starting from outside post 8. Last time, Henderson Farms' Bushwacker with Corey Callahan close sharply to finish second beaten by a head with Rich Lombardo and L&J Racing's Ohio champion $1.5-million Dancin Yankee driven by the sports second-leading all time winning driver Tony Morgan, a strong third.

Wakizashi Hanover is rounding into top form for Nova Scotia owners Bruce Kennedy and Tri County Stables and drew post 1 with Tim Tetrick at the controls. Vegas Vacation starts alongside for Tony Beaton and West Wins Stable. The rest of the all-star lineup includes Weaver Bruscemi, Burke Racing and M1 stables Bettor's Edge to be driven by Matt Kakaley. Allan Davis drives Sweet Rock, second in the Del. Special in his most recent start, for Reg Hazzard, G.P.Calloway and Legacy Racing and trainer Jeff Clark's Kindofabigdeal, with Geoge Dennis, who won his last start, completes the impressive lineup.

Little Ben is back in the $27,500 Delaware Special Handicap. Owned by Janet Hudson's and JoAnn Looney-King. Vic Kirby has driven the gelding to victory in four of his last six outings starts in this event. Two starters are fresh from wins; Al Carter and trainer Doug Lewis' Captive Audience (Kakaley) from post 1 and driver George and Tina Dennis' Seventh Secret. Art Stafford Jr. drives Blazing Bobby Sox, who is co-owned by Art Stafford. Mustang Art (Sean Bier) steers for owners Max Walton and Greg Papaleo. One of the fastest and riches Delaware-bred pacers Remember Me VK (Montrell Teague) has upset credentials. Not to be overlooked is Reg Hazzard and Legacy Racing's Sicily (Allan Davis).

Bamond Racing's Flem N Em N(Kirby) brings two straight wins into the $20,000 Open Handicap. The strong undercard includes three $15,500 paces.

From Dover Downs and its horsemen, a wish for a Happy New Year 2017. When at the track enjoy racing and tasty food in the Winners Circle Restaurant acclaimed buffet. Call for reservations at 302-674-4600.

Harness and Thoroughbred Simulcasting daily 12 Noon until 12 Midnight at Dover Downs Race and Sports Book in the Colonnade. There is no charge for parking or admission at Dover Downs.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday are dark days for live racing at Dover Downs. Weekdays – Monday through Thursday – racing begins at 4:30 p.m.

Marv Bachrad