The fastest trotter in the history of Running Aces, Pridecrest, made his way back to the winner's circle on Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 18) for his first local win of the season.

Sent as the 8-5 favourite over Banker Volo (2-1), Pridecrest and driver Mooney Svendsen rocketed out of the gate from post 5 and had two lengths on Banker Volo as they passed the quarter in :28.2. Pridecrest continued to trot strongly throughout and posted a middle half in :57.2 to keep Banker Volo chasing in the pocket while Magic Mvp launched a first over bid and threatened from third.

As they straightened for home there was no doubt about the winner. Pridecrest ($5.40) coasted home to win by one length in 1:54.4 over Banker Volo, who fought hard for second over Magic Mvp.

The victory, which came in a $6,700 conditioned event, was the fourth of the year for Pridecrest, and his fastest win time in two years. It was career victory No. 39 for the eight-year-old Angus Hall gelding, who has now bankrolled $328,977. The winning owner is Christopher Schick and the winning trainer is Kathie Plested-Wiseman.

The $5,500 Two-Year-Old Open Trot went to Al Mar Bragen Star, who picked up his first win in 2:03 and provided fireworks on the tote-board with a win return of $30.00. The victory came in just the third start for the gelded son of Braggart, trained and co-owned by Brett Ballinger along with partners Carl Swanson and Denise Maier. Tim Maier sat in the sulky and led all drivers on the card with two wins.

Live Racing returns to Running Aces on Saturday (Aug. 22) with first post at 1:00 p.m. (CDT) and will feature two carryover pools - $1,121.94 for the 50-cent Hi-5 wager, and $974.20 for the 20-cent Pick-5 Jackpot wager.

(Running Aces)