Meadowlands: Bourbonista S best in the Six Pack for older trotting mares

Bourbonista S was one of the stars of the show at the Meadowlands on Saturday night, breaking the track record and equaling what at the time was the fastest mile ever in North America on the trot with a 1:48 4/5 romp in the Grade 3 $129,400 Six Pack for older mares. Dexter Dunn piloted the 5-year-old by Face Time Bourbon to an epic performance for trainer Marcus Melander.

Bourbonista S was out-sprinted leaving the gate but took control in 27 2/5 for Dunn. Bravo Angel S and Jason Bartlett were three-deep much of the opening quarter and then needed nearly a half to clear the front in a startling 53 4/5 fraction. The pace didn't slow, with Dunn pulling the pocket on the leader before the three-quarters reached in 1:21 4/5.

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With favored Warrawee Michelle moving up without cover, Dunn not only got the jump on his rival, but his mare also took off in rapid fashion, leaving the stretch drive only a battle for place. With a 27 second final fraction, Bourbonista S won her second straight major race, having annexed the Armbro Flight last month at Woodbine Mohawk Park. Warrawee Michelle finished second with R Dutchess third in the record mile.

Bred and co-owned by Panamera Racing and also co-owned by Deo Volente Farms, Bourbonista S returned $7.80 as the second choice.

"Since we pulled the shoes she’s been getting better and better," said Melander who also pointed out that Bourbonista S, though fairly unknown until recently in North America, had finished second and third behind record-setting Allegiant while racing last year in Sweden.