Coalford Bythesea sweeps to Open win

The $9,500 Open Pace highlighted the Saturday night (Nov. 18) harness racing program at The Ville with Coalford Bythesea (Downbytheseaside – Stormy Novel) and driver Justin Irvine riding the pocket to win by one and a half lengths in 1:55.1.

Coalford Bythesea and Justin Irvine left hard for the early lead with newcomer Game of Change and Southwind Amazon to an opening quarter in :27.1. As the early dust settled, Southwind Amazon dictated the pace to a half in :56.2 while being pressed by a first-up Fred’s Nightmare. As they swung to the backstretch, Fred’s Nightmare and Drew took over the lead to three-quarters in 1:25.0 as Southwind Amazon faltered. Coalford Bythesea immediately popped from the pocket to tackle Fred’s Nightmare, taking over the lead and storming home to victory. Fred’s Nightmare finished second and Executive Dash N got up for third.

Coalford Bythesea earned his 12th career victory and is owned and trained by Gerald Malady

Driver Lindsay Moen had a driving hat trick while drivers Jason Merriman, Justin Irvine and Art McIlmurray had driving doubles. Trainers Gerald Malady and Art McIlmurray had training doubles as well on the evening.

Northville Downs resumes racing on Friday (Nov 24) with a first post time of 7 p.m. Friday is dollar night at The Ville with $1 pop, live programs and popcorn, $2 hot dogs and beer and hamburger and cheeseburger specials.

Northville Downs closes out their 2023 race meet Friday and Saturday night Nov 24 & 25 with a 7 p.m. post time. A retirement ceremony will be held Sat Nov 25 for the 14-year-old horses that have raced at Northville Downs over the past few years.

For complete race results, click here: US Trotting results.

by Ken Terpenning, for Northville Downs