>A post position change was a help as Alexachase closed quickly for a 1:52.3 triumph in the St. Patrick’s Day $20,000 Mares Open Handicap at Dover Downs.

With Jeremes Sweetheart cutting out the fast pace, Alexachase closed strongly on the final turn and zoomed to a 1:52.2 victory in the distaff feature of the week. Bret Brittingham was at the controls of the fast-finishing six-year-old by Bettors Delight-Jett Away who won for the third time in seven starts this year. Paradise Lost was second, with Jeremes Sweetheart holding on for third.

Alexachase has won $30,600 this year and $337,103 lifetime for owners Kimberley and trainer Johnny Waite.

Hall of Famer Ron Pierce led all drivers with five wins on the Monday program. Pierce took the opener with Real Becky in 1:56.4 and added wins with Trans Am Blue Chip (1:56.4), Sir Sync Z Tam (1:54.1), Scootin For Joy (1:52.1) and Senorita Bella (1:55.4).

(With files from Dover Downs)