Blue Ivy returned to the winner's circle on Saturday (April 22) following a 14-day layoff, cruising to an easy 1:53.1 victory over a sloppy track in the $19,000 featured Fillies & Mares Open Handicap Pace at MGM Northfield Park.
Aaron Merriman wasted little time getting to the front with Blue Ivy after working her away around Ourlittlemiracle through the first turn. Getting to the quarter in :26.4, Merriman tried to catch a breather with his talented mare, but the outer flow began to apply slight pressure with Mystical Virgin, stablemate Lady Newton and last week's winner Dudes Sweet Bet beginning their bid.
What Merriman wanted is what he got as he got to the half in a leisurely :56. Merriman stepped on the gas, opening a two-length lead moving into the backstretch for the final time and creating even more separation at three-quarters in 1:24.1
Geared down through the stretch, Blue Ivy held on for a 2-1/2 length victory over Mystical Virgin and Dudes Sweet Bet, who rallied from the back to finish third.
It was the 51st victory for the daughter of Captaintreacherous, who has now earned $762,390 for owner-trainer Renee Bercury.
Live harness racing resumes on Sunday evening (April 23) at 6 p.m. (EDT). MGM Northfield Park currently races on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
(With files from Northfield Park)