Statesman Wins Freehold Preferred Pace Saturday
Posted 1713 days
Statesman was bet down to favoritism in the Preferred Handicap pace at Freehold Raceway on Saturday (February 1), and lived up to his 8/5 billing, winning by a length.
Driver Joe Bongiorno took him back in the early stages, sitting in fourth place most of the way. As they neared the five-eighths point, Bongiorno activated his charge, sending him first-over after early leader Machtu. Statesman grabbed firm control as they turned for home, and despite a late rally from Vapour, Statesman had enough for the victory. The time was an impressive 1:53.2 over a fast Freehold track.
Statesman is co-owned by Joe and Jenn Bongiorno; Jenn handles the training. This was the first start of the year for the 13-year-old veteran, and his 50th career triumph. In 261 races, he’s won 50 times, while bankrolling more than $890,000.
Statesman’s win was one of three for Bongiorno on the Saturday card. He also won race 9 with J M Mandarin and race 10 with Hardts or Bettor. The former gave Jenn a training double; Mike Russo trained the latter.
Rancousy, Exit Cam, Fox Valley Inferno, Machtu, and Declan Seelster completed the order of finish.
Live racing resumes at Freehold on Thursday, starting at 12:30 PM EST.