Northlands Park: Saunders runners take pair of stakes

Trainer Dale Saunders had a banner day at Northlands Park on Saturday with wins by Ready Racer in the Sun Sprint Handicap for 3-year-olds and up and Hollywood Drama in the Birdcatcher Stakes for 2-year-old colts and geldings.

Fernando Perez shipped in from Hastings to ride Ready Racer, who paid $8.60. Perez took a big hold of the 6-year-old gelding while favored Gone in a Flash, Big Bad Butch, and Minutesandtouches were vying for the early lead. Ready Racer circled the three horses at the quarter pole and took a two-length lead at the top of the stretch before drawing off to win by 9 1/4 lengths over Gone in a Flash. Tiny Giant finished third in the 6 1/2- furlong sprint.

The final time was 1:16.80

Hollywood Drama, ridden by Kyle Carter, paid $11.60 for his three-quarter-length win over Just Gone in the 6 1/2- furlong Birdcatcher. Much like Ready Racer, Hollywood Drama trailed the field early before launching his bid. He got up in the last few strides to edge Just Gone by three-quarters of a length. Saintly Aura finished third.

Heavily favored Tony the Tank faded to fifth after pressing the early pace.
The final time was 1:20.00.