Dover: Captain Crunch sets new all-age track record in Progress Pace elim

After going more than three months without a victory, Captain Crunch provided a reminder of his ability on Wednesday evening in the Hap Hansen Progress Pace elimination by becoming the fastest horse in the history of Dover Downs.

Starting from post five in the $35,000 elimination, Captain Crunch was sent directly to the front by driver Yannick Gingras, getting around fellow leaver U S Captain before the opening quarter in 26 4/5. Once in charge, the son of Captaintreacherous put up the half in 54 seconds and three quarters in 1:21 1/5 before stopping the timer in a spectacular 1:47 3/5 as much the best.

U S Captain chased from the pocket for second while three-hole-sitter American Mercury was steady for third. Slight favorite Dancin Lou, who won the Breeders Crown last month, was reserved early, got stuck behind poor cover and gained mildly late. Southwind Ozzi moved uncovered at the half and backed up badly, finishing last and getting eliminated from the $300,000 final on November 27.

“I wanted to race him on the front and take it from there,” said Gingras, who eluded to the break the colt made last week. “I just kept his attention, that’s why we rolled along really fast tonight, to make sure he didn’t do anything wrong.”

Trainer Nancy Johansson, who got into a minor car accident on the way to Dover, was feeling much better after the win. She cited an equipment change that perhaps helped the colt this week.

“We changed his shadow roll and put a screen on him,” said the trainer.

Captain Crunch ($5.80 to win) broke the 1:48 all-time Dover Downs record held in concert by Heston Blue Chip and Bandolito. He is owned by 3 Brothers Stable, Christina Takter, Rojan Stables and Caviart Farms.

The November 27 Progress Pace final is expected to be the final start of Captain Crunch’s career. A win would put the colt over the million dollar mark in earnings this year.

It was announced earlier this week that Captain Crunch will head to Diamond Creek’s Pennsylvania Farm to start a stallion career in 2020.