Race Of The Week 30th July 2026

For much of the stretch, the $420,500 Adios Pace looked to be firmly in the hands of Al Papi.

By the finish, it was anything but.

The son of Papi Rob Hanover produced a tough front-running performance to capture one of North American harness racing’s signature pacing events, surviving a dramatic late challenge to win in 1:48.1.

“Around the final turn I thought I was going to win by 10, he felt so strong,” Gingras said.

But Al Papi became a little bumpy in the stretch, giving his rivals a chance. Odds On Mr Mamba continued to fight after racing outside the leader, while Melillo charged home late.

Al Papi dug deep when it mattered, holding on for victory over Melillo, with Odds On Mr Mamba third.

The win was particularly special for Gingras, marking his first Adios victory for trainer Ron Burke and the Burke Brigade.

AL PAPI REPLAY

 

by Harnesslink Media