June 2, 2023, by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland (Stephanie Gray photo)
CUMBERLAND, ME – Bruce and Mary Beth Ranger’s PBR Street Gang has been a model of consistency since arriving in their stable in early March. If you throw out the line on Cinco de Mayo, where he made an uncharacteristic break at the three-quarter pole, he has been pretty close to perfect. The 5-year-old son of JK Endofanera won his qualifier at Cumberland in early April. Then, he won his first start, was second in the Spring Fling #2 final, and won his last two starts.
During Friday’s (June 2) 11 race program, PBR Street Gang leaves from post six in the fifth race $5,500 featured conditioned pace. Of course he has the services of top reinsman Bruce Ranger, and has been installed as the 4-1 second choice by the trackman odds maker. His primary threat is the Plainridge invader Something Bettor A (post 1, 7-5, Ron Cushing) who has faced tougher foes at the Bay State oval. A field of seven goes postward where the betting options include a 50 cent trifecta, as well as the usual assortment of exotic wagers with low 16% takeouts sprinkled throughout the card.
Saturday’s (June 3) program also carries eleven races, and his headlined by the popular Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC), which is scheduled for race four. Now in its fifth week, Jason Bertolini (driving his trusty steed Led Schneppelin) will look to redeem his sole defeat in the last edition. The series is sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham, Maine. Also on the card are two $5,500 features, a trot and pace, for the better horses on the grounds.
Looking ahead, Cumberland will offer live viewing and wagering on the $1,500,000 Belmont Stakes from New York City. This is the 155th renewal of the third and final jewel of the Thoroughbred Triple Crown is a mile and a half test of endurance and stamina. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Secretariat’s world record and Triple Crown winning performance. Cumberland will offer flats programs, as well as all the applicable wagering options.
Live harness racing continues at Cumberland throughout the Spring and early Summer months with regular racing on Friday and Saturday each weekend. First post is slated for 3:15 pm (EDT) during the extended pari-mutuel meeting, which runs through August 5.
