Victoriana’s Secret too strong in $250,000 Delmonica Hanover Stakes

WILKES-BARRE PA – Victoriana’s Secret (Tactical Landing), despite having to come first-over in the lane, used superior talent to power off to harness racing victory in the $250,000 Delmonica Hanover Stake at Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania on Saturday afternoon, with the time of 1:51.2 equaling the stake and track record set by Yo Tillie in the same race a year ago.

Ronnie Wrenn Jr. got the Tactical Landing filly away in fourth from the rail as Pennsylvania-based Little Road, sent off as the favorite, went right to the top and forced opponents to take seats behind her to the :27 quarter. Setyoursightshigh, last year’s divisional champion, was rushed to the lead in front of the stands and reached the half in :55.2, just as the winner began her outside move.

Victorianas Secret inexorably gained ground the length of the backstretch and was battling with the pacesetter at the 1:23.3 three-quarters; nearing the middle of the turn she had taken a short lead. Custom was on her back and tipped wide to mount a stretch challenge; she did well, but Victorianas Secretstayed sturdy and won by half a length. Longshot Crossover claimed third; Little Road was shuffled when the leader tired and was not a late factor.

VICTORIANAS SECRET REPLAY

Largely unheralded until late spring, Victorianas Secret has put herself squarely in contention for divisional recognition, winning five of her last six starts, including a 1:50 at Lexington two weeks ago. The Vernon Brachy trainee has now boosted her earnings to $410,531 for owner Ryan Smith.

For complete race results, click here: US Trotting results.

From the PHHA / Pocono Downs