He's won at the Meadowlands Racetrack, Pocono Downs, and Harrah's Philadelphia since coming stateside. Now, Matticulous GB will take his talents to Freehold Raceway on Saturday (Jan. 11), as he headlines a field of eight Preferred handicap pacers.
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Matticulous GB began his career there before coming to the United States for the Ron Burke barn in October. Since then, he's been on a tear, having recorded five wins and a second from six starts. Perhaps his most impressive performance came at the Meadowlands on November 23, when he paced a winning mile in 1:50.1. He went the last quarter that night in a blazing 25.2 seconds.
Matticulous GB will be making his first start since December 9 at Yonkers Raceway, when he finished second as the 3-5 favourite, behind 2018 Metro Pace winner Stag Party. On January 4, Matticulous GB turned in a strong qualifying mile at the Meadowlands, going the distance in 1:54.3. He was assigned the outside post position for Saturday's tilt, and figures to get strong wagering support.
The best of the challengers appear to be The Onlyest One and Benson Boys. The former won the Preferred at Freehold three starts back, and finished third at the level, behind stablemate Lucan Hanover, last week. Jack Baggitt will drive that one for the first time, for trainer Nick Surick. He was assigned Post 6. Benson Boys is undefeated since coming to the United States in October, winning four straight races between Pocono and Yonkers. Joe Bongiorno is named to drive for his sister Jenn, leaving from Post 7.
The rest of the field consists of, from the inside out, Polak, Bullet Bob, Ozone Blue Chip, Clint Westwood, and Gotta Go BB. It's scheduled as the eighth race, with a post time of 3:10 p.m. (EST).
The first of 11 races on the Saturday program at Freehold will be at 12:30 p.m. (EST).
(Freehold Raceway)