by john manzi for the Billings Series
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ- Robert “Rapid Rail”
Krivelin is no stranger to fans who follow the amateur races, especially in the
granddaddy of them all, the CKG Billings Harness Driving Series.
Although he’s slowed his participation in the many
other amateur series events Krivelin, a food purveyor in New York City, makes
sure he competes in the Billings. And why shouldn’t he? He’s been so successful
over the past two decades that he has earned National Amateur Driver of
the Year honors three times. And after his triumph tonight at the Meadowlands
he may be in consideration for a fourth national title
At the Meadowlands tonight Krivelin scored an
upset victory with his old war horse, Permanent Joy, turning back seven others
in a 1:58 contested mile over racetrack rated good.
Overlooked by the betting public and sent off at odds
of over 12-1 Krivelin worked a perfect cover trip for Permanent Joy.
After starting from the pole position Krivelin allowed
David “Poppa” Glasser and Celebrity Stimulus to take charge in the :28.3 first
quarter and then shadowed the leader throughout.
Glasser and his trotter .passed the halfway point in
:58.1 and they were still comfortable on the lead as the three quarter timer
flashed 1:27.4. But at that top of the long lane company began joining
Celebrity Stimulus.
Krivelin was the first to move and his trotter joined
Glasser’s as the field headed for paydirt. When they straightened for home
Permanent Joy hung tough and rebuffed all challenges to go on for a one
length triumph over Dizzy Rizzy, driven by “Buffalo Bob” Davis. Landonfitz came
from far back to garner the show dough for Dave “Steady As” Yarock.
Krivelin’s Hero Stable declares ownership of
Permanent Joy and Krivelin is the registered trainer. Permanent Joy paid
$27.80; $8.80 and $5.20 across the board.
For Krivelin it was his 212th driving
victory since he began his amateur career in 1996.
