Todd Jones achieved a career milestone October 19 at Northfield Park’ when he recorded his 2,000th driving victory aboard NF Noteworthy ($10.60).
Jones pulled the Kelly O’Donnell-trained mare approaching the half, and she dueled with Lost Photo for over a quarter of a mile before drawing clear and winning by two lengths in 2:01.1 over a 'sloppy' track.
Jones began his driving career in 1982 at Fairmount Park and moved to Quad City Downs before finding his way to Cleveland. He spent many years driving at Northfield Park and for the last couple years took his driving skills to Indiana Downs and Hoosier Park. The familiar maroon, gold and white colours will remain at Northfield Park. “I’ll be here for a while,” he said.
“My dad, Gerald, is the person I credit for being the most influential person in my life and driving career,” said Jones, who has steered his charges to just under $8 million in purse earnings. Jones’ first win was with a pacer named Timely Renvey, and his best year was 1999 when he drove 214 winners which earned purses in excess of $900,000.
Jones had a tough time naming the best horse he has ever driven. “It would be a close call among Shutupandkissme, Uphill Battle and V Anna Happy Star,” he said. “Uphill Battle was my fastest win. I won with him in 1:51.1 at Scioto Downs.”
Jones mentioned that the biggest races he ever won were the finals of the Ohio Sires Stakes, which he accomplished three times. He also stated that he prefers to drive on a half-mile track. “Really any half, but my favourite is Northfield. That’s where I’ve spent most of my time.”
(Northfield)