Robert “Rapid Rail” Krivelin is no stranger to fans who follow the amateur races, especially in the granddaddy of them all, the CKG Billings Harness Driving Series.

Although he’s slowed his participation in the many other amateur series events Krivelin, a food purveyor in New York City, makes sure he competes in the Billings. And why shouldn’t he? He’s been so successful over the past two decades that he has earned National Amateur Driver of the Year honours three times. And after his triumph tonight at the Meadowlands he may be in consideration for a fourth national title

At the Meadowlands tonight Krivelin scored an upset victory with his old war horse, Permanent Joy, turning back seven others in a 1:58 contested mile over racetrack rated good.

Overlooked by the betting public and sent off at odds of over 12-1 Krivelin worked a perfect cover trip for Permanent Joy. After starting from the pole position Krivelin allowed David “Poppa” Glasser and Celebrity Stimulus to take charge in the :28.3 first quarter and then shadowed the leader throughout.

Glasser and his trotter .passed the halfway point in :58.1 and they were still comfortable on the lead as the three quarter timer flashed 1:27.4. But at that top of the long lane company began joining Celebrity Stimulus.

Krivelin was the first to move and his trotter joined Glasser’s as the field headed for paydirt. When they straightened for home Permanent Joy hung tough and rebuffed all challenges to go on for a one length triumph over Dizzy Rizzy, driven by “Buffalo Bob” Davis. Landonfitz came from far back to garner the show dough for Dave “Steady As” Yarock.

Krivelin’s Hero Stable declares ownership of Permanent Joy and Krivelin is the registered trainer. Permanent Joy paid $27.80 to win.

For Krivelin it was his 212th driving victory since he began his amateur career in 1996.

The Billings Gold and Silver Cup Finals will be contested over Yonkers Raceway’s double oval on Sunday, November 26.

(CKG Billings)