There is little doubt that this program is the strongest collection of overnight events that Plainridge has presented in several years. Although the Massachusetts track was awarded the state’s first expanded gaming license earlier this year, it will be mid-2015 before that facility opens. Nonetheless, just knowing that the industry will survive has generated confidence among local horsemen. That is reflected in the quality of the Wednesday card.
Three separate Open events are the co-features.
The top trot is headed by Doully, who is undefeated at Plainridge during his few appearances in 2013-14. He will likely face a stiff challenge from Winemaster Hanover,who rides a six race win streak, and A Megabuck, the track’s 2013 Trotter of the Year.
The Open event for pacers features a pair of horses -- Wheelaway and Western Victory -- who have each defeated the top class twice already this season. Both figure to face a stiff challenge from newcomer Burkentine Hanover, a 1:51 winner already in 2014.
The penultimate race of the afternoon is the Mares Open, led by Young American, who has scored victories at three different tracks within the past month.
First post for the Wednesday card at Plainridge Racecourse is at 4 p.m.