The Meadows: Papi's Rocket launches out of the pocket in Keystone Classic

Pennsylvania champion Papi's Rocket converted a pocket trip to a sharp 1:50 4/5 victory in Friday's Keystone Cla6ssic at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows. Wedlock Blue Chip captured the other division of the $82,700 stake for 2-year-old colt and gelding pacers.

Papi's Rocket let Dreamboat Hanover do the dirty work up front before overtaking him in mid-stretch. But winning driver Ronnie Wrenn Jr. indicated at that point, Dreamboat Hanover wasn't his principal concern.

"I was a little nervous leaving the two-hole early because I thought I might be giving a shot to Railroad Station in the passing lane," Wrenn Jr. said. "But I thought it was my time to move. He's not real big, but he gives 100 percent every time."

The son of Papi Rob Hanover-Real Touch remained in charge, downing Railroad Station by half a length, with Steamboat Springs a rallying third. Ron Burke trains Papi's Rocket, who vaulted over $200,000 in career earnings, for Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi LLC., Knox Services and Slaughter Racing Stable. Burke sent out eight of Friday's 16 Keystone Classic starters.

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Wedlock Blue Chip had only a qualifier in the past month, but he came back ready, moving crisply first-over and drawing off to a 3 1/4 length triumph in 1:53 1/5. Snack Attack and Lou's Albano finished second and third, respectively. Roland "Poly" Mallar conditions the son of Bettor's Wish-Heavenly Bride for Richard Cortese and Don Hawk.

"I think Poly wanted to get a race in him but couldn't find one for him," said winning driver Troy Beyer. "But his fitness wasn't a big concern. Poly always has his horses strong."

Wrenn Jr. collected five wins on the 13-race card, including four for Burke, while Dave Palone fashioned a triple..

Live racing at The Meadows resumes Wednesday, first post 12:45 P.M.

--press release (MSOA)--