The 62nd Anniversary of live racing at Ocean Downs concluded Sunday.
Nine-year-old gelding Mr Thinker, a son of Glowing Tribute, was named Horse of the Meet. The racehorse won two legs and the final of the 'Bud Light Pace' late closer series. Trained by Charlene Polk, the horse won six races during the meet, five of which were consecutive.
"He's just a classy horse. I don't doing anything special in training him," Polk said. Christopher Ryan Sharpe, from Laurel, Delaware, owns the horse.
Driving Mr Thinker to all of his victories at Ocean Downs this season, was the Official Driver of the Meet, fearless Frank Milby. The reinsman rebounded from just 28 wins in 2008 to record 47 wins this season. The young 31-year-old driver from Cordova, Maryland took the title, by finishing just six wins ahead of second-place driver Chuck Perry, Jr.
"Everyone knows that winning isn't a one-man operation," said the humble driver. "I want to thank all of my trainers and great owners for allowing me to race with their horses."
Finally, the Trainer of the Meet award was handed to Joseph Eisenhower, Sr. The winning trainer had 17 horses make trips to the winners circle in 2009, compared to his total of 11 in 2008. While receiving his award the meek trainer wanted another person to take all of his winning glory.
"I want to dedicate this honour to my daughter," said Joseph. "She has been through so much recently, but always makes time to come and be here for me."
A spectacular display of fireworks called an end to the 2009 season. Ocean Downs continued to draw well this season, averaging 1,665 per night during the 40-night meet.
(With files from Ocean Downs)