Pocono: Ruthless Hanover rules in Always B Miki Invitational

Ruthless Hanover was George Napolitano Jr.'s only drive on the Sun Stakes Saturday program at Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania, and he made it count, prevailing in the $100,000 Always B Miki Invitational for older pacing males.

Three horses - Hellabalou, Coaches Corner, and Ruthless Hanover - engaged in a three-wide battle for the lead that endured for more than three-eighths of a mile before Ruthless Hanover and Napolitano Jr. landed on top in a 53 2/5 half.

From there, Ruthless Hanover remained on top, reaching three-quarters in 1:20 2/5 and the finish in 1:48. He won by two lengths over Voukefalas, with Coaches Corner finishing third. There was an inquiry on Ruthless Hanover as he got steppy on the last turn, but he was deemed not to have interfered with anyone or violated any breaking rules, and the win stood.

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Ruthless Hanover is trained by Tom Cancelliere and owned by John Cancelliere. The 7-year-old son of Somebeachsomewhere-Rockaroundthetrack has won three of six races this season and 25 of 60 lifetime, banking $719,744. He was bred by Hanover Shoe Farms.

Wagering on the Sun Stakes Saturday card exceeded $1 million, at $1,007,875.