MEADOW LANDS, PA, Nov. 24, 2008 Abraxas, dismissed as the 7-2 fourth choice despite his victory over the best on the grounds last week, probably converted a few of the skeptics Monday at The Meadows when he charged through the lane to capture the $25,000 Preferred Pace.
Sitting fourth down the backside, Abraxas and Rodney Bolon worked out a second-over trip behind War Boots. When that rival faltered, Abraxas moved wide to score in 1:53.4 in the slop. Tarver Hanover, who raced gamely on the front end over the tiring surface, was a length back in second, with Martys Charm third.
Jeff Fife trains Abraxas, a 5-year-od gelded son of Dragon Again-Dandy Dana, for Ed Moritz. Abraxas has finished first or second in seven consecutive starts.
Elsewhere on the card, Dave Palone achieved a milestone when he drove Pocket Driver N to victory in the 11th race. The winners share, $7,500, sent Palone over $9 million in 2008 purses, a personal best.