34-1 long shot upsets in NAADA Trot

Monticello, NY–Chris Petrelli reined 34-1 long shot Cyclone Maximus (Duke’s Ranger) to a 2:02.4 victory in the $7,500 North American Amateur Drivers Association harness racing trot today (Aug. 31) at Monticello Raceway after the 3-5 favorite, Keystone Blade, and second choice, 3-1 Bully Boy, jumped it off after the start.

With the favorites eliminated Dave Yarrick sent Mr Ridgetaker to the lead and they showed the way past the quarter in 29 seconds… Despite Petrelli and Scott Keppler, with Fun Time Charlie, looking to move- up, Yarrick still set the pace and led the others by the half in 1:01.2.

The field was closing in, but Mr Ridgetaker got first call when he passed the three quarters in 1:31.2 but when he rounded the final turn and headed for home the lead began to dissipate and he began to fade.

In the deep stretch four trotters rushed to the wire but Cyclone Maximus proved to be the strong horse for Petrelli and he overtook his competition and held off Con Air Hall (Jake Stillwell) to win by a head. Third place went Fun Time Charlie with Mr Ridgetaker a nose farther back fourth.

CYCLONE MAXIMUS / CHRIS PETRELLI REPLAY

The winner, an 8-year-old gelding, is owned by Joe Ricco, Jr. and trained by Nancy Montembeault. He paid $70.00 for the win.

For complete race results, click here.

by John Manzi, for NAADA