Not many bettors could predict Caviar Star's win in the Preferred Handicap trot on Friday (January 31) at Freehold Raceway. Those that did were well-rewarded, as the seven-year-old won at 38/1.

Driver Jim Marshall kept him in the pocket early on, drafting off leader Inukchuk Chuck. While rivals began to move to the outside to take on the leader, Marshall continued to save ground. Turning for home, "Chuck" tried to pull clear of the rest, but got leg-weary and began to come back to the field. Sensing the opportunity, Marshall activated Caviar Star towards the passing lane, and trotted up a storm towards the wire. At the same time, Dot Dot Dot Dash, who had been last most of the way, was rallying four-wide around the turn and closing with fury. It was close, but Caviar Star got up to win by a head over Dot Dot Dot Dash.

This was Caviar Star's 10th career win, in his 70th start. He was third at the Preferred level two starts ago, and was able to break through and get it done in Freehold's top class here, trotting the mile in 1:57.4. Tom Lail is the winning owner and trainer. He paid $78 to win, $30.80 to place, and $9.40 to show.

Inukchuk Chuck managed to hold third after setting the pace. Abbies Celticlass, Magic MVP, Rock Of Cashel, Southwind Cruze, and Mugshot Jess completed the order of finish.

Live racing continues at Freehold on Saturday, starting at 12:30 p.m. There will be a double pick 5 carryover, starting in race 5, worth $2,832.31.

(Freehold)