Meadowlands: Dream Together stuns favorites in Dr. John Steele Memorial

Dream Together, at 51-1, shocked a field of trotting mares to capture the $154,800 Dr. John Steele Memorial at the Meadowlands on Saturday afternoon in 1:51 3/5 for driver Bob McClure.

As expected, the race saw post-time favorite Ariana G set sail from the outside to secure the front in a 27 second second opening quarter for driver Yannick Gingras. Ariana G backed the half to 55 seconds and appeared in control as Caprice Hill made a long coverless grind past the halfway marker and was challenging through a 1:23 3/5 three-quarters, with Ariana G holding firm.

On the final turn Checkmate Time broke while following cover, opening up a seam and allowing Broadway Donna room to get into the cover flow. McClure, behind Dream Together, also edged off the rail and had third-over cover as the stretch run approached.

Gingras worked hard on Ariana G, and the mare fought gamely, but the long stretch and the pressure took its toll. Broadway Donna appeared to have the best shot at the upset, but McClure kicked wider and drove hard to get Dream Together, a 4-year-old by Muscle Hill, up on the wire in a blanket finish. Broadway Donna held second with a game Caprice Hill third.

A winner just once in nine tries prior to the Steele, Dream Together set a personal-best with the victory. Luc Blais trains Dream Together for Determination of Montreal, Quebec.