Stellar Performance by "Masses" at The Meadowlands Mile Event

Putting on a remarkable display following a layoff spanning over three months, Lovedbythemasses, trained by Jeff Cullipher, showcased his prowess on Saturday, Feb. 17 at The Meadowlands by clinching victory in the prestigious $42,568 Presidents’ Day Trot for high-calibre horses in a dominant manner.

The seven-year-old gelded offspring of Muscle Mass-Incredibility marked his return to pari-mutuel racing after finishing eighth in the $600,000 Breeders Crown Open Trot at Hoosier Park on Oct. 28. Despite the hiatus, he impressively qualified on Feb. 10, clocking a remarkable 1:55 mile, with a striking final quarter of :26.1.

Winning driver Todd McCarthy expressed confidence in Lovedbythemasses' performance, having observed his promising form during the previous week. McCarthy, who celebrated his first victory since his racing comeback, anticipated a strong performance from the gelding, noting,

“I had a good feeling he would go a good mile tonight, since last week, I was slowing him down near the wire”. 

Encountering challenges during the trip, Lovedbythemasses had to rely on his sheer strength to secure victory. Racing from post seven in a field of 10, he faced a three-wide situation heading towards the quarter, with Nextroundsonme leading in :28.1.

Despite the obstacles, McCarthy maintained pressure on the gas pedal, and Lovedbythemasses delivered the speed required. The duo reached the half in :57, with Buddy Earl in pursuit, setting the stage for Toccoa Falls in the pocket position and Ferretti on the outside.

As they approached the three-quarters mark timed at 1:25, Lovedbythemasses began to surge ahead, gradually distancing himself from Buddy Earl on the far turn, ultimately widening the gap to 2-3/4 lengths as they straightened into the homestretch. Crossing the finish line three lengths ahead of Toccoa Falls in 1:52.3, Lovedbythemasses secured a triumphant victory, with Buddy Earl finishing in third place.

Reflecting on the race, McCarthy praised Lovedbythemasses’ strong finish, mentioning,

“He finished up really well, earplugs in. He was wrapped up at the wire. Jeff has done a great job with him and he should have a really good year”. 

Owned by Pollack Racing, Lovedbythemasses’ impressive track record now boasts 28 wins from 84 starts, accumulating earnings of $877,574. As the even-money favourite, he returned $4 to win, promising an exciting season ahead.