Get ready for an exhilarating afternoon at Harrah's Philadelphia as the annual Super Sunday extravaganza unfolds! This upcoming weekend, on May 24, promises an action-packed day with a total of $611,815 USD in purses up for grabs across 15 thrilling races. The event kicks off at 12:40 p.m., featuring two defending champions from the prestigious $100,000 USD Invitationals of 2025.
In this article, we'll delve into the highlights of this marquee program, focusing on three centerpiece races and the third preliminary round of the Pennsylvania Sire Stakes and Stallion Series. Get your betting strategies ready, as we explore the key contenders and their chances in these highly anticipated events.
The $100,000 USD Joseph Auger Memorial Pace (Race 13)
The defending champion, Bythemissal, is a force to be reckoned with. With lifetime earnings of $2,791,752 and a remarkable lifetime record of 1:46.4, this horse has proven its worth. Starting from post three, driven by Yannick Gingras and trained by Ron Burke, Bythemissal is poised for a strong showing. However, the competition is fierce, with Millionaire pacer Ken Hanover, driven by Tim Tetrick and trained by Polie Mallar, facing an uphill battle from the outside starting spot.
What makes this race particularly fascinating is the strategic advantage that Bythemissal's starting position offers. Personally, I believe this could be the deciding factor, especially given the horse's impressive track record.
The $50,000 USD #Senditin Invitational Pace (Race 5)
Featuring the world's fastest horse on a five-eighths-mile track, Ruthless Hanover, trained by Tom Cancelliere, this race is a showcase of speed and talent. With a remarkable time of 1:46.3 achieved at Philly in the 2023 Auger, Ruthless Hanover is a clear favorite. But let's not forget the $25,000 USD Open Pace that kicks off the card, adding an extra layer of excitement.
In my opinion, this race highlights the diversity of talent within the sport. While Ruthless Hanover's speed is undeniable, the Open Pace provides an opportunity for other horses to shine and potentially upset the odds.
The $100,000 USD Betsy Ross Mares Pace (Race 12)
Double defending Betsy Ross champion and 2024 U.S. Horse of the Year, Twin B Joe Fresh, may not be at its peak form yet, but the Chris Ryder barn has a formidable replacement in the form of double millionaire Miki And Minnie. Starting from post six, driven by Dexter Dunn, this mare has already proven her worth as the U.S. divisional champion at two and three.
A key contender is Louies Girl N, an import from New Zealand, driven by Jason Bartlett and trained by Per Engblom. With an impressive record of five wins from seven starts in 2026, Louies Girl N possesses the tactical speed to make a significant impact. Another notable entry is Rodeo Drive Deo, starting from post seven for Team Burke/Gingras, who impressed in her comeback mile at Pocono with a 1:49.4 final clocking.
What many people don't realize is that this race showcases the depth of talent among mares. While Twin B Joe Fresh's absence may be felt, the presence of Miki And Minnie and Louies Girl N ensures a highly competitive and entertaining contest.
The $100,000 USD Maxie Lee Memorial Trot (Race 11)
Here's where we see the familiar duo of Yannick Gingras and Ron Burke again, this time with Antognoni S, starting from post four. Antognoni S has been on a winning streak, with victories in both seasonal starts and a remarkable record of 16 wins last year. This horse's relentless grinding and overpowering style have made it a force to reckon with.
Aetos Kronos S, the winner of the 2025 Maxie Lee, could potentially secure a third straight win for trainer Marcus Melander and a second for driver Dexter Dunn. However, starting from the outermost post, Aetos Kronos S faces a challenging task. Having finished second in the Arthur J. Cutler Memorial at The Meadowlands last week, this horse will need to overcome its starting position to claim victory.
Pennsylvania Sire Stakes & Stallion Series
The "glamour division" sophomores have been dominating the preliminary rounds, with two horses winning both their races so far. Another C Note and Sneaky Squeaky, relatively unheralded at the beginning of the year, have gone six-for-six in 2026 competition. Another C Note will be in the 10th race, kicking off the $10,000 USD guaranteed Pick 4 wager, while Sneaky Squeaky will race after the big Invites in race 14.
In the Stallion Series, Really Bright faces a tough challenge, starting from the outside post in race three. Ballroom Affair, on the other hand, starting from post two, looks to maintain its perfect record in 2026 and secure another Stallion Series conquest.
Deeper Analysis
The Super Sunday program at Harrah's Philadelphia showcases the depth and diversity of talent within the sport. From the defending champions to the rising stars, this event promises an exciting display of skill and strategy. The strategic starting positions and the tactical speed of certain horses will undoubtedly play a crucial role in determining the winners.
Conclusion
As we look forward to this thrilling Super Sunday, it's clear that the competition is fierce and the outcomes are far from certain. The strategic advantages and disadvantages of starting positions, the depth of talent among mares, and the relentless grinding styles of certain horses all contribute to the intrigue of these races. Get ready for an afternoon of high-octane harness racing, where every race tells a unique story and the winners will be determined by a combination of skill, luck, and strategic brilliance.
