Manofmanymuscles made an impressive debut at Saratoga Raceway on Monday afternoon (Feb. 12), triumphing in the Open Handicap Trot from the inside rail position.
This victory set the stage for an exceptional performance by driver Brett Beckwith, who went on to secure five wins throughout the day. The seven-year-old Muscles Massive gelding, previously under the Doug Berkeley stable, faced the challenging task of competing in the highly anticipated Open division for the first time at Spa.
Undeterred by the pressure, Manofmanymuscles took full advantage of his favourable post position, swiftly taking the lead in the $20,270 feature race. Guided by Beckwith, the duo set a commanding pace, clocking in at :28.2 and :58.1 for the first half. As they approached the three-quarter mark in 1:27.1, Manofmanymuscles faced his first significant challenge.
However, the determined gelding, arriving fresh from a recent victory in 1:54.4 at Dover Downs, showcased his resilience and fended off late charges from Comeonover Hanover and By The Book, securing a thrilling victory by a neck in 1:57. Under the ownership of Doug and Leslie Berkeley, Manofmanymuscles paid $7.90 as the second choice with odds of 3-1, forming a lucrative exacta combination with Comeonover Hanover, which paid $56.
The triple, completed by By The Book, yielded a handsome return of $392. With this win, Manofmanymuscles has achieved an impressive two wins out of three races this year, accumulating a lifetime record of 19 victories and approaching $170,000 in earnings. Beckwith's success continued as he piloted two more winners for trainer Jackie Greene: the unexpected upsetter GG Raymond, paying $27, and the favoured Busting With Pride, rewarding backers with $2.80.
Beckwith then showcased his partnership with his father Mark, driving Kenobi ($2.90) and Home N Dry ($4.10) to victory in the late Daily Double, completing a remarkable five-bagger. Notably, Home N Dry is co-owned by Beckwith and his father, further highlighting their successful collaboration.