Northern Express and driver Russell Foster welcomed the drop down in company and won the Open Handicap Trot at Dover Downs on Tuesday night (Jan. 18).
Northern Express blasted off the wings of the starting gate and was on a mission. He set fractions of :28.1, :57.1 and 1:26.1. Quiksilvr Bluechip sat in the pocket throughout the journey.
Driver Victor Kirby eased off the pegs with Quiksilvr Bluechip in mid-stretch but could not threaten Northern Express.
Northern Express (Muscle Massive-Seducedbychocolate-Chocolatier) won, under wraps, by a half length in 1:54.4. He paid $4.00 as the bettor's choice. He is owned and trained by Arty Foster Jr. Arty’s son Russell Foster drove.
Quiksilver Bluechip sat in the pocket and finished second for trainer-driver Victor Kirby. Swansea finished third for trainer Cad Gregory. Anthony Morgan drove.
The featured 12th race on Wednesday (Jan. 19) is the Winners Over/Select Handicap Pace for mares.
Post time at Dover Downs is 4:30 p.m. (EST).
(Dover Downs)