The three-track, eight-leg trotting series sponsored by the
North America Amateur Drivers Association kicked off at Monticello Raceway on
Thursday afternoon, October 17. Relative newcomer to the amateur driving ranks,
Dr. John Kokinos, scored his first pari-mutuel victory when he guided
Impressive Earl to a 2:01 three length victory over Hardrockinjessica and
driver Monica Banca.
In a race marred by a driving infraction, Kokinos sent his
trotter to the lead and remained on top the entire mile. On the clubhouse
turn the second time around the racing was tight and there was
interference which caused the trailing horses to scatter, but all remained
unscathed .
Banca and her trotter skirted the confusion as did
Alan Schwartz, who worked his way between breaking horses to finish third with
Two Shot Lead.
It was the fourth victory of the year for the veteran Valley
Victory gelding who is owned by his trainer, Jennifer Lappe. Impressive Earl
was impressive to his backers when he returned a $13.20 win payoff.
The NAADA series continues at the Mighty M on Thursday, Oct.
31 before moving on to Yonkers Raceway on Thursday, November 7, and then to
Freehold Raceway on Friday, November 15.
A$14,000 Final at Yonkers Raceway on December 19 awaits the
eight drivers who earn the most points in the eight preliminary legs.
At the end of the series NAADA will make its annual donation
to a worthy charity.
