Hall of Famer breaks through with Hellabalou
Hellabalou cashed in as a 6-1 underdog and won the 55th running of the $375,000 Delvin Miller Adios Pace for the Orchids Saturday at The Meadows.
It was the first Adios title for both Hall of Fame driver Tim Tetrick and trainer Eddie Dennis. The son of Sweet Lou-Magestic Blue Chip now has banked $327,136 for owner Eric Good.
Hellabalou crossed the finish line in the race of 3year olds with a time of 1:48.4 coming out of the fifth lane.
He got out to a quick lead, and maintained it into the first quarter pole. As Water Sports Teen, the favorite, and driver Joe Bongiorno challenged with a first-over move, Hellabalou relented.
“I was pretty sure the pocket would hold up,” Tetrick said. “Getting to the quarter in 26 wasn’t too bad, and Joe’s horse looked really strong when I let him go. I thought if he could take me there for a little bit, it would be great.”
Abuckabett Hanover challenged from the outside lane. As Water Sports Teen fended off the challenge, Hellabalou was able to slip past on the inside. The move was perfectly timed, and allowed Hellabalou to fly through Lightning Lane for the victory.
Rockyroad Hanover made a late push to snag second. Water Sports Teen settled for third, leading for a majority of the race. Southwind Gendry claimed the fourth spot. Abuckabett Hanover took fifth place.
Hellabalou has a history of unlikely victories. He previously pulled off an 81-1 upset in a Meadowlands Pace elimination.
Dennis said Hellabalou will be pointed to the Hempt Memorial Aug. 21 in Wilkes Barre, Pa.