In his first time competing in Monticello Raceway’s Passover Pace, Bob Krivelin walked away a winner after he reined Whitaker Blue Chip to a 2:01:4 triumph in the ‘Race for the Matzos.'
“I felt like Moses leading the Jews out of Egypt,” Krivilen joked. “This is the first pacer I’ve driven in a long time, and let me tell you, he was a whole lot easier to handle than the trotters I’ve been driving lately.”
Krivelin guided his pacer to a five-length triumph over Hawaiian Hunk, who was handled by Derick Giwner, the editor of 'Harness Eye.' Third place went to Ya Gotta Belief and driver Dave Yarock. Alan Schwartz finished fourth with Hoosier Cougar.
Oddly, the first four finishers in the race were handled by an amateur driver.
After plenty of road trouble, Peter Kleinhans finished fifth with Whitewall Hanover and Mike Kimelman was sixth with RH Bittersweet. Auditor N was flat from the pylon position for Alan Charles and finished seventh. Starfleets Fudge faded and finished last.
Billy Kapinos trains Whitaker Blue Chip, who is owned by Marissa Russo. He returned $7.00 on a successful 'win' wager.
“Before the race, (Billy) Parker said that speed wasn’t holding up today, and that’s why I wanted cover when I let Liebowitz go,” Krivelin said. “And since I was using Billy’s bike, I thought I better heed his advice.”
In the winner’s circle, Krivelin seemed happier with the box of Matzos than with the blanket and the huge trophy he received.
“I love these matzos,” he chirped. “They’re Streit’s….. my favourite brand. I make matzo-brie every morning with them during Passover.”
(With files from Monticello Raceway)