Northern Express notches first win of 2024

Northern Express (Muscle Massive) steamrolled to a harness racing victory in the $25,000 Open Handicap Trot at Bally’s Dover on Tuesday night (Feb. 27).

Northern Express and last week’s winner I Get It battled early for the lead. Northern Express left, settled, then rushed to the top at the quarter when Muscle Dynasty made a miscue and went off stride.

Northern Express confidently set fractions of :27.3 to the quarter.  Driver Russell Foster and Northern Express were able to back down the half in :58.1, a :30.3 quarter.

The old man of the field, 13-year-old JL Cruze. braved a first over trip up the backstretch.  Darbyshire followed with second over cover.  I Get It sat intently in the pocket.

The 2-1 betting favorite, Northern Express picked up steam trotting to the three quarters in 1:26.1, a :28 flat quarter. He then drew off in the stretch and won by two and a quarter lengths.  He trotted the mile in 1:55.1 and paid $6.40 for the win.

NORTHERN EXPRESS REPLAY

Northern Express is owned by Arty Foster Jr. of Harrington, Delaware and is trained by Arty Foster III. JL Cruze fought hard and finished second with. I Get It finishing third.

Tim Tetrick earned a four bagger with four driving wins on the night.

On Wednesday night Jody, last week’s winner, takes on Tae and Southwind Icenfire in the featured mares conditioned pace.

Bally’s Dover races Monday thru Thursday. Post time is 4:30 pm.

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

by Alex Kraszewski, for Bally’s Dover