Fiftyshadesdarker took the $12,500 Open Pace on Monday (October 20) at Northfield Park. Brian Loney owns and trains the winning four year-old and enlisted the driving services of Ronnie Wrenn Jr.
Fiftyshadesdarker (Bettors Delight – Crystal Slipper – Artiscape) started from the rail and virtually led the field from start to finish through fractions of :27.4, :57 and 1:25.2 before hitting the wire in 1:54.1. He was a half-length in front at the finish. Completing the race were DJ Lance, Mybrothergeorge, Our McLovin, Hall Of Memories, Playin For Keeps, Master Stroke, Just Crowned and Aligned Hanover.
Fiftyshadesdarker now has six wins in 30 starts this year, 10 career successes and a bankroll of $79,460. He was the race favourite and paid $3.00 to win.
Kirty Dream was impressive in winning the evening’s $12,500 Open Trot. Jeff Hochstetler trains the seven-year-old for owner Mario Caponi of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Jason Thompson was aboard for the winning drive.
Kirty Dream (Cantab Hall – Klelia – Cezio Josselyn) started from Post 7. He was parked with cover through fractions of :27.4, :57.3 and 1:27 before taking lead in the stretch and besting his competition by one and three-quarter lengths, in 1:57.1. Completing the race were Mythical Hall, Marys Darvin, Wind Surfer, Mischievous Jesse, Zorgwijk Heavenly, Action SJ, Calling A Victory and Edit.
Monday’s triumph was the ninth win this year for Kirty Dream. It increased his lifetime win tally to 20 and his earnings to $271,709. He returned $7.00 to win.
(Northfield)