Record holder wins again at Northville

A pair of top condition harness racing events shared the Friday (Jul. 7) spotlight at Northville Downs as six-year-old pacing mare Princess Rockette (Pet Rock – Hammers Princess) with driver Lindsay Moen and eight-year-old trotting mare Youcouldbethatgirl (Credit Winner – Coulantine) and driver Kody Massey won their respective divisions.

In the co-featured event for mares (race six), current Aged Pacing Mares Northville track record holder Princess Rockette, overcame early interference by breaker I Choose You to clear to the front past the quarter in 27.4. Rocks StormyD and Drew Neill took the pocket ride while Princess Rougarou and Justin Irvine challenged to a half in 57.1 and three-quarters in 1:25.4. When they turned for home, Rocks StormyD took the inside route while Princess Rougarou challenged outside, but Princess Rockette proved too good to hold off the late challengers to win by a half-length in 1:55.3. It was Princess Rockette’s 29th career win. She is bred and trained by George Hensley, Jr who co-owns with Mr. Ronald W Simons.

In race eight, the co-featured top trot was taken by pocket-sitter Youcouldbethatgirl for trainer Paul Cloer, Jr and owner Lases Racing by a widening three and three-quarters lengths in 1:57.1 over early leader Stoneborough and driver Bart Stimer who finished second with Mystical Lane and John Moody finishing third. It was the 18th career win for Youcouldbethatgirl.

On the night, Kody Massey and Drew Neill captured driving doubles.

Racing at The Ville resumes Saturday, July 8, 2023 at 7pm. Northville Downs races every Friday and Saturday night from now until September 30th  with a 7pm post time. For live racing dining reservations, be sure to call Northville Downs in advance at 248-924-2073.