Timber Reserve hangs on to win Pennsylvania Derby

Bensalem, PA (Sports Network) - Lightly-raced Timber Reserve held off Xchanger down the stretch to win Monday's $1 million Pennsylvania Derby at Philadelphia Park. The race was not held last year while slot machines were being installed at the track.

Ironically, an equipment problem for Timber Reserve delayed the start of the race a few minutes. The delay did not affect the three-year-old as he broke well from the gate in the 1 1/8 mile event.

Shortly after the start Cable Boy took the lead followed by Timber Reserve, Xchanger and Bwana Bull in the 11 horse field. Cable Boy, with jockey Jose Velez, Jr., took the field up the backstretch as the first four spots did not change.

Approaching the far turn, Timber Reserve and Javier Castellano took the lead from the outside with Xchanger moving into second. Timber Reserve had the lead at the top of the stretch, but Xchanger battled him until the wire,

At the finish Timber Reserve was a neck in front of Xchanger who was ridden by Luis Garcia. Morning-line favorite Zanjero was third and Lone Star Derby winner Slew's Tizzy finished fourth. Rounding out the order of finish was Sam P., Imawildandcrazyguy, Bwana Bull, Cowtown Cat, Moyer's Pond, Cable Boy and Get Serious. Cable Boy and Get Serious were coupled as an entry.

The time of 1:47.67 equals the stakes record held by Western Playboy and Rock And Roll.

Timber Reserve is trained by John Kimmel and co-owned by the trainer's father Caesar. In just his sixth career start, and second this year, the colt adds $544,000 to his earnings. He has won three of six lifetime races for $627,822. This was the first PA Derby win for both the trainer and jockey.

Timber Reserve returned $13.40, $8.60 and $7.20. Xchanger paid $19.80 and $11.60, and Zanjero paid $3.60 to show.