Exarch had a strong showing last Monday when making his local debut in the Open Trot at Saratoga Casino Hotel.

John Gerow trains the six-year-old gelding for the Fortune Valley Stable of Ballston Spa, NY and after finishing second in last week’s feature while dismissed at odds of 9-1, Exarch got a bit more board support this week when he drew post five for his second start in the local Open.

Jimmy Devaux piloted Exarch who utilized his early speed to come away in the pocket behind the race’s favourite Gigfy. Exarch sat patiently as Gigfy cruised through three quarters in 1:26.2 before taking his shot turning for home when Devaux popped the pocket. Gigfy faltered late and Exarch surged by to prevail in 1:56.4 and record his first ever win in the Open Trot at Saratoga. Hot Wheelz (Chris Long), who was making his debut in the Open, closed sharply late in the mile and passed several rivals before finishing second. Gettin Messi (Wally Hennessey) came on to be third.

Exarch paid $9.40 to win and led an Exacta and Triple that returned $111 and $405.50, respectively.

The win was the fourth of the season for Exarch and the second since moving to the Gerow barn a little over a month ago.

Live racing continues on Tuesday afternoon with a matinee starting at 12 p.m.

(Saratoga Casino Hotel)