Winning Billings trots in the Midwest region is getting to be a habit for Steve Oldford.
The talented reinsman from Michigan, who is also the vice president of the CKG Billings Harness Driving Series, scored an easy wire-to-wire triumph with Stirling Boudica in 1:58.3 on Sunday night (Oct. 28) at Northfield Park. The win was Oldford's second consecutive victory at the track.
Sent off as the 4-5 favourite from the five-hole, Oldford did what should be done when one has the best horse in the race. He sent the eight-year-old daughter of Malabar Man immediately to the lead in a :28.1 first quarter. Once in command, and with no challengers, Oldford was able to tap the brakes, as his mare led Tipontab and driver Cubbie Van Wagoner to the mid-way point in :58.1.
First to move was Marvin Raber when he took aim at the leader with Buckeye Patty when the field straightened up he backside. But they never did get alongside the leaders, Around the final turn Stirling Boudica was in front with Tipontab still following her and at this point Oldford's mare appeared strong – and she was – and rambled home a two-length winner with Tipontab second best.
Meanwhile, Buckeye Patty stalled, which allowed Better Call Saul and Michelle Ruvola to rally and both horses were inseparable for the show dough when they reached the finish line.
Racing his stock at Northfield Park has been fruitful for Oldford. He won a Billings trot for the third time is as many weeks and he has been victorious in five of his last six trips to post. Currently with 12 wins and a .328 UDR, it has vaulted him into the running for National Amateur Driver of the Year, an honour Oldford won a few years ago.
The winner, Stirling Boudica, is owned by Oldford Racing and trained by Kody Massey. She paid $3.40. And for Oldford it marked his 142nd lifetime driving victory.
(Billings Series)