Former Hambletonian winner Vivid Photo returned to his victorious ways Tuesday, September 29 at Pocono Downs.
Trained and driven by Roger Hammer, Vivid Photo necked out Yankee Nola (driven by Anthony Napolitano) to capture the $30,000 open handicap trot.
Leaving from Post 3, Hammer and Vivid Photo sat fourth for the first half of the mile with Grain Of Truth (Mike Simons) taking the eight-horse field to the opening split in :27.4. The new leader at the half was Nicoles Promise, one of the two mares in the race.
The opening half-mile was clocked in :56.4. Afterward, Hammer tipped Vivid Photo out down the backstretch to grab the lead, getting to the three-quarter pole in 1:25.4. Vivid Photo held off the other mare in the race, Yankee Nola, who attempted to come up the passing lane.
In actuality, Yankee Nola briefly got by Vivid Photo near the finish line before the seven-year-old SJs Photo gelding displayed that old championship form to regain the lead at the wire. Grain Of Truth finished third.
Vivid Photo has over $3.1 million in career earnings. Yesterday's victory was the third win in 26 starts this year for Vivid Photo.
(With files from Pocono)
ITS great to see a great
ITS great to see a great horse back. I have watched...and admired for years.