Hunter Myers notches 1,000th win

Harness racing driver Hunter Myers made his 1,000th trip to the winner’s circle after triumphing with Over Six in MGM Northfield Park’s fifth race on Wednesday (December 1).

Myers sustained a first-over journey, eventually besting his competition by two lengths.  The 1:58 clocking was the fifth career score for the sophomore trotter, who returned $8.20 to win.

The 23-year-old Myers began driving in 2014.  His 1,000 wins have helped him garner over $7 million in purse earnings.

Harness racing is in Myers’ blood.  He and his father, Michael, have been involved with the sport their entire lives.

OVER SIX REPLAY

“I have always had a good support group around me that likes and understands the ups and downs of racing,” stated Myers.  “My mom, dad and other family members have always been behind me all the way and have always pushed me to be the best that I can be.”

In addition to his family, Myers says that harness racing is full of encouraging people that have and continue to help and show support.

“I receive a lot of support from my girlfriend Scarlett and the entire Wilder family,” explained Myers.  “Sam and Jodi Schillaci are also a big part of my support system.  Sam offers a lot of great advice on both driving and life.”

Hunter was driving professionally while attending Westfall High School in Williamsport, Ohio and began working with horses full-time immediately after graduating in 2016.

“I love to race horses and cannot picture myself doing anything else,” said Myers.

Hunter drove his first race in June, 2014 at the Pickaway County Fair in Circleville, Ohio.  It resulted in a 2^nd place finish in a $3,057 fair stake event aboard Indian Spirit.  Just three weeks and seven drives later Myers scored his first win.  It was a 2:03.2 victory in a $1,000 conditioned trot with Uptown Dreamer at the Jackson County Fair in Wellston, Ohio.

Myers’s richest win is a $75,000 Ohio Sires Stake Consolation in October at Hollywood Dayton Raceway aboard Cash N Chips.  He rates the best horses he has ever driven as Cash N Chips and Smothastenesewisky.  Hunter credits his family’s trotter, Simmy as the horse that has had the largest impact on his driving career.

Myers feels fortunate to have had the opportunities he has been given in his young driving career.

“There have been many people that have given me opportunities and I thank them all,” offered Myers.  “There have been a lot of people that have stood by me for several years now, even when I was a rookie at the fairs not knowing what I was doing out there.”

For full race results, click here.

by Ayers Ratliff, for MGM Northfield Park