Trainer/driver Larry Stalbaum completed the weekend sweep of Saratoga Opens, winning the Open Pace on Saturday, June 22 with Heaven On High N before coming right back with Malibu Kid to win the $20,548 Open Trot on Sunday, June 23.
Stalbaum made the lead early with Malibu Kid through a first quarter of :29.1 before clicking off a half in :58.2. The leader never faced a challenge until race favourite Remember Titans (Brett Beckwith) revved up a first-over challenge at three-quarters in 1:27.1. The pursuit proved to be futile as the Stalbaum trainee dug in gamely to rebuff the favourite en route to a 1:56.4 score. Remember Titans held for second, with longshot Wishing Barefoot (Brian Cross) earning the show spot. Malibu Kid paid $8.70 to win.
Shark Racing Stable owns the six-year-old gelded son of Wishing Stone-Malibu Seelster who notched his second victory of 2024 in his 14th try of the season. Malibu Kid now sports a career bankroll of $354,280.
Live harness racing continues at Saratoga on Monday, June 24 when there will be a 17-race matinee featuring the New York Sire Stakes for two-year-old trotting colts and geldings. First post time for Monday is set for noon.
(With files from Saratoga Casino Hotel)