After coming off a hard fought victory in the top trot last week, Nows The Moment came right back and scored an easy gate to wire win in the $25,000 Open Handicap trot at Plainridge Park on Friday afternoon.
Driver Mike Stevenson made it clear he would dictate the race and had Nows The Moment on the point immediately after the gate released the field. With a loose lead and little resistance from behind, Nows The Moment cut quarters of :27.1, :57 and 1:26.3 at three quarters, where he held a two length advantage over the pocket-sitting Joey Bats (Kevin Switzer Jr.). Turning for home Joey Bats tipped out and tried to cut into the margin, but there was no catching Nows The Moment as he cruised down the stretch to a two length victory in 1:54.1.
Plainridge Open Trot To Eurobond | Standardbred Canada
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Lucky Weekend, Winding Hill Win Plainridge Trots
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Opening day at Cumberland Saturday (May 8) enjoyed a large crowd and widespread support from on-track punters, as well as simulcast outlets, for the nine-race card.
The first extended pari-mutuel meeting, to open in over 20 years that was not owned by a casino, enjoyed mild temperatures that brought several hundred people to the Cumberland Fairground’s apron to enjoy a full day of harness racing.
Over nine races, the swiftest of the day went to iconic driver and Maine-native Bruce Ranger, who steered 12-year-old Ira Chief to victory for trainer Dennis Whittemore and owner Diane Whittemore in 1:57.2. Six races went faster than 2:00 and only two races were won by the betting favourites.