Jean Valjean won his third consecutive race Friday at Penn National in the Don’t Close Your Eyes Stakes, one of four stakes on the evening.
Friday’s Penn Mile night handle at Penn National shattered the track record, set on the event last year.
Frankie (Dettori) went to Hollywood (Casino at Penn National Race Course) and left with the money, winning both the G3 Penn Mile and Penn Oaks.
Jockey Angel Rodriguez earned his 2,000th career victory, while apprentice Anthony Radcliffe picked up his first Wednesday in the Mid-Atlantic.
Friday’s Grade 3 Penn Mile features seven stakes winners, topped by Trikari, last out winner of the G2 American Turf.
Penn National kicks off its 2024 season Jan. 10 and will race fewer days this year spread out among three meets, resulting in higher purses.
Winning a national-best nine races last week earned Penn National-based jockey Angel Rodriguez Jockey of the Week honors from the Jockeys’ Guild.
Favored Major Dude overcame trouble at a critical moment to run down Behind Enemy Lines to win Friday’s Grade 2 Penn Mile.
Friday’s Penn Mile gives Major Dude a chance to bounce back from a third-place finish in the American Turf and several others a chance to try turf.
Jadiel Zambrana, an 18-year-old apprentice rider, earned the first win of his career Thursday at Penn National aboard Bar On the Beach.