Buter had the victorious Tactical Landing gelding out behind grinding heavy favorite Buddy Earl, then moved on to challenge raw after that one got by at the three-quarter pole under some urging. Through the stretch it was no contest as Smooth Landing went on to a 1:58 final time for trainer Jennifer Bongiorno and owners Glenn Goller and Stephen Demeter. Enola closed steadily to take second ahead of Buddy Earl.
Co-featured were a trio of $16,500 contests, with the fast-class trot also going to Buter and the 51-time career winner Rich And Miserable in 1:55. The Todd Buter-trained altered son of Explosive Matter was the easiest of winners while taking his career bankroll to $824,444 for Buter Farm Inc. and Lynette Buter.
Tyler pulled another upset with 12-1 choice Panettone Hanover in the top-level starter allowance pace, tipping wide off the cover of Francis Underwood and prevailing in 1:53.2. The Captaintreacherous gelding is co-owned by trainer Cote Keim in partnership with El Dorado Stables and Buzzy Sholty.
The fast-class pace saw the Always B Miki gelding Maximus Miki win his second straight race at Pocono via a pocket journey, launching up the inside to gain into a :55.4 back half and win in 1:53.3. George Napolitano Jr. again guided the pacer to success for Team Cancelliere, trainer Tom and owner John.
Racing returns to Pocono Monday for a 14-race card beginning at 1 p.m., with a $15,000 pair of showcase events for developing horses at each gait. Pocono programs are available free of charge at www.phha.org.