As Jimmy Devaux was entering the winner's circle after his fifth win on the 10-race card at Monticello Raceway on Thursday (Jan. 14), track announcer Howard Oil said “When you’re hot, your hot.”

James Devaux has been on fire as of late, the 53-year-old reinsman won four races the prior day. The last time Devaux won five races at Monticello Raceway was almost exactly a year ago, on Jan. 10, 2020. With nine wins in two days, Devaux has a slim lead over Mike Merton atop the leading dash winner leader board of the young 2021 season.

The banner day started in Race 2 with Road Untraveled (2:00.3, $6.00). The 13-year-old gelding earned his first win of the season for trainer Dave Dziengiel. Thisishowwedoit (1:57.4, $2.60), Giddyallyougot (2:00.2, $14.00) and Preacher Ollie (1:57.3, $3.50) gave Devaux additional wins. He concluded the afternoon with His Excellence (1:57, $12.20) in Race 9 for trainer Art Green.

Also on the card, Cory Stratton drove two winners, and former Monticello Raceway Rising Star Shane Darish won with Precious Blue Chip. Over $656,000 was wagered on the afternoon.

Live racing continues Friday afternoon (Jan. 15) with a 12:25 p.m. (EST) first-race post.

(Monticello Raceway)