Driver Chris Lems made his 2,000th trip to the winner’s circle after winning with Hot Shot Hill in Northfield Park’s 15th race on Friday (August 28).
Lems was second-over and Hot Shot Hill swooped three-wide in the backstretch, drawing away by 6-3/4 lengths at the wire in 1:55. It was the 22nd career score for the seven-year-old pacer, who returned $22.20 to win.
The 33-year-old Lems began driving in 2003. His 2,000 wins have helped him garner over $14.5 million in purse earnings.
Lems drove his first race in July 2003 at the Canon Fair. It resulted in a third-place finish in a $2,000 conditioned race with Beyond Bold. Later that month, he earned the first win of his career at the Oskaloosa Fair, again aboard Beyond Bold, this time for an $850 purse in 2:12.
Lems primarily raced in New York for most of his career but moved his talents to Ohio in 2017.
The reinsman feels fortunate to have had good stock to drive in his career and says that winning races is a team effort.
“There have been many people that have given me opportunities and I thank them all,”
offered Lems. “Many owners and trainers have given me opportunities and I appreciate
it so much.”
(With files from MGM Northfield Park)