The Maine Sire Stakes program launched its 2010 campaign at Scarborough Downs on Sunday (6/27), and while overcast skies welcomed the pacers to post, the stars of the sophomore set shined through as if in brilliant sunshine.

Twin $9,500 splits of three-year-old pacing colt races paraded in front of an enthusiastic crowd who roared its approval as Katahdin Boy and driver Shawn Gray led the way to a speedy seasonal debut, timed in a lifetime best of 1:57.2.

A five-time winner last season before injury ended his freshman campaign just short of the rich finals, the three-year-old son of Computer Scooter appears to have picked up even better than where he left off for trainer David Crochere and owners Linwood Higgins and Thomas Perkins.

Founding member of the Maine Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association, Jean Emerson, was there cheering the horses on. “If the Breeders Stakes Program can start the season with a time of 1:57.2, it certainly justifies itself,” she said.

Pembroke Joe Dunn, last year’s champion (Heath Campbell), was second, and KDK Alex (Kevin Switzer) was third.

Victory in the 2nd division was claimed in convincing fashion by Pembroke Nick as driver Heath Campbell guided the three-year-old son of Baron Biltmore to his first seasonal score. Owned by William Varney and trained by Valerie Grondin, the Maine-bred stopped the teletimer at 2:00.1, thirteen lengths the best over a field scattered by a breaking horse in the back stretch.

Maine Sire Stakes action returns to Scarborough Downs on Friday, July 2nd with 2-year-old filly pacers competing. Post time: 4 pm