Maximus Miki Captures Potomac Pace at Rosecroft Raceway
Maximus Miki secured a narrow victory in the Grade III, $125,000 Potomac Pace at Rosecroft Raceway, holding off late challenges on Sunday, Nov. 2, wcms.drf.com reported. Driven by Scott Zeron, the 6-year-old gelding pushed from post eight and outlasted pocket rival Nijinsky by a scant nose to finish in 1:48 2/5.
The victory adds another graded stakes win this season for Maximus Miki, whose prior major conquests include the Canadian Pacing Derby and the Harrah’s Hoosier Park Pacing Derby. John Cancelliere owns the winner, and Tom Cancelliere serves as trainer.
How the Potomac Pace Unfolded on Track
The race began with Maximus Miki moving forward from post eight to clear 2024 North America Cup winner Nijinsky on the first turn, while Coaches Corner secured a three-hole ride from the pole position. Coaches Corner then moved off the pegs entering the clubhouse turn, advancing to engage the pacesetter through a grueling 26 2/5 third-quarter duel.
Coming off the final turn, Maximus Miki dug in to fend off Coaches Corner, who ultimately finished third. At the wire, Maximus Miki narrowly preserved his advantage over the 7-5 favorite Nijinsky, who charged up the open stretch. Last year’s Potomac winner, Abuckabett Hanover, finished fourth, beaten 3 3/4 lengths. Sent off as the 4-1 third choice, Maximus Miki paid $10.20 to win.
Undercard Results and Future Racing Schedule
On the supporting undercard, Scott Zeron also captured the $25,000 Pete Medhurst Legacy Pace behind Sheer Terror. The 5-year-old Always B Miki gelding made a middle move from third to take the lead just beyond a 54 2/5 half, ultimately pulling away by three lengths to win in 1:50 for trainer Willard Reynolds and owner Mark Howard. Drivers Eric Davis and Russell Foster led the 13-race card with three victories apiece.
Live harness racing at Rosecroft Raceway is scheduled to resume on Thursday, Nov. 6, with the first post set for 7:15 p.m. EST.
Worth a look