Going into Saturday's (Oct. 2) Renaissance Pace for two-year-old fillies, there was virtually no doubt that Gotthegreenlight would win. The only question was if she'd break the 1:54.3 track record, shared by three fillies.
Although she did not set the track record, she nevertheless won the Renaissance as much the best, crossing the line 1-3/4 lengths in front in 1:55 4/5.
Gotthegreenlight came into this race with impressive credentials. She was 7-for-8 lifetime, with her biggest victory coming in the New York Sire Stakes final at Yonkers Raceway two starts back. Leaving from post position one, she easily established control early on and set only moderate fractions. There was never a chance of any of her five rivals giving her a serious challenge, and George Brennan never really asked her to go. Second choice (at 24/1) Counterparty Risk made up some ground late to get second, while Aida De Vie got third.
Gotthegreenlight is owned by Patricia Stable and Kovach Stables LLC, and trained by Nifty Norman. Her career earnings are now more than $238,000.
The Saturday card also featured the first leg of the New Jersey Sire Stakes - Standardbred Development Fund for two-year-old colt and gelding pacers. Camouflage Money went gate-to-wire to win in 1:53.4, for owners South Mountain Stables, Camelot Stable Inc, and JAF Racing LLC, trainer Linda Toscano, and driver Troy Beyer.
Live harness racing resumes at Freehold on Friday, Oct. 8, starting at about 12:30 p.m. There will be a pick 5 carryover worth $1,128.98.
(Freehold)