The Meadowlands in New Jersey hosted the fall Breeders Crown races, which settle the year-end championships for the 2 and 3 year olds. Eight races were contested for $4.7 million in purses, under ideal harness racing weather -- temperatures in the mid 30's, clear skies, and no wind -- before a crowd of 10,750.
The first Crown race on the night is the $700,000 Two-Year-Old Filly Trot, with Honorable Daughter the 9-10 favorite in the field of 9 over 9-2 Yursa Hanover.
Driven by John Campbell, Honorable Daughter was parked most of the mile and dug in gamely late, nailing Yursa Hanover at the line in a photo in 1:55.3. Southwind Wasabi finished 2 1/2 lengths behind in third.
Winning driver John Campbell said, "I think this was one of her best races of the year. She really had to gut it out and she was here when I called on her late and I was very proud of her tonight. The fractions were going to be stiff and didn't want to get her in a speed duel and have her get tired before the wire. I preferred to come with cover but it just didn't work out that way."
Results chart
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