Harrah's Philadelphia: Allywag Hanover comes out a winner in first 2022 qualifier

The two Dan Patch award winners in the older pacing category in 2021 squared off in a Harrah's Philadelphia qualifier Tuesday morning, with Allywag Hanover, making his first trip behind the gate this season, defeating the mare Lyons Sentinel by three-quarters of a length in 1:53.

Todd McCarthy sent the victorious Captaintreacherous gelding right to the top, with brother Andrew handling Lyons Sentinel settling right in behind. Fractions of 29, 57 4/5, and 1:25 2/5 were posted, with Lyons Sentinel narrowing in late and both pacers giving a good account of themselves. Brett Pelling trains Allywag Hanover for Allywag Stable.

Another member of Team Pelling, last year's good freshman Hammering Hank, had a nightmare journey in his 2022 bow, getting away last, a dozen lengths behind at the half, then suffering interference past the three-quarters, but still rallied for second behind 1:55 2/5 winner Hunt For Cash.

Driver Andrew McCarthy won qualifiers with a pair of Jim King Jr.-trained sophomore pacing fillies: the Captaintreacherous miss Captain Cowgirl in 1:53 2/5 and the Sweet Lou distaff Lyons Serenity in 1:52 4/5.

Video of the day's qualifiers is posted here courtesy of the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen's Association.

-edited release (Philadelphia/PHHA)