Chiodo Scores Mildred Series Victory

The Mildred Williams International Driving Series made its fifth annual Yonkers Raceway visit Thursday night, with the race once again serving as a means to a very worthwhile end

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The record shows that Stacy Chiodo and pole-sitting, 11-year-old gelding Sequoiahs Spirit N ($8.20)--whom she also owns and trains--won the "lady drivers only" event. Stacy and 'Sequoiah' prevailed from the pocket by a length, pacing the mile-and-one-sixteenth in 2:02.2.

As is custom, all the drivers donate their fees, and the series’ host venues--including Yonkers--make contributions to the worthiest of causes. The Raceway's organization of choice remains the Kelly Rooney Foundation (www.kellyrooney.org). Based in Wayne, Pennsylvania, its mission is funding research, education, awareness and outreach programs focused on breast cancer prevention.

Da Vinci (Rebecca Brewer), the 1-2 favourite was third-placed-second, with Artmendous (Kelly Case) fourth-placed-third. Too Much Pepper (Julie Miller) had closed to finish second, but was disqualified to seventh for interference down the backside. Jumpin Jack Flash (Veronica Merton), Papaknowsbest (Doreen Dailey), Showmethefame (Ann Karin Larsen), Too Much Pepper and Big Mystery (Elisabeth Jansen) rounded out the order.

"It's a great race to win, especially since [Sequoiahs Spirit N] was like 0-for in his last two seasons," Chiodo said. "Even so, once I was able to get the trip, he knew enough to take care of the rest."

The bigger picture was not lost on the winning driver.

"Everyone knows someone who's affected by breast cancer," Chiodo said. "These races give us the chance to get out and compete, but more importantly, help with the fight. Whenever they need me, I'm there."

"We're so grateful to have Yonkers among the tracks who welcome us every year," series organizer Ann Curran said. "It's an honour for us to come here."

(Yonkers Raceway)