As a result of adverse weather conditions including strong winds, heavy rain, and limited visibility, Monticello Raceway had to cancel a significant portion of its race schedule on Wednesday afternoon, April 3.
The race was called off after the third event because of safety issues.
Alan Schwartz, the favoured contender with odds of 8-5, secured a spot on the concise card for the North American Amateur Drivers Association (NAADA) Trot. He competed against Raceace in the exclusive $7,500 division.
Starting from post three, Schwartz quickly sent Raceace to the front and encountered minimal opposition, completing the first quarter in a time of :30. Southwind Larado, with Robert Ciavardini in the driver's seat, strategically positioned itself in the pocket, staying close behind the leader. Meanwhile, Bully Boy, driven by Anthony Verruso, made progress along the outer rim, clocking in at a 1:00.3 half. Bully Boy persisted in advancing up the rear and reached Raceace's side at three-quarters in 1:31 before maintaining a steady pace around the final turn. Raceace surged ahead and comfortably crossed the finish line, winning by 1-1/4 lengths in a time of 2:02.2. Bully Boy finished in second place, followed by Southwind Larado in third and Sorprese (Joe Faraldo) in fourth.
Alan Schwartz is the proud owner and trainer of Raceace, a magnificent eight-year-old gelding sired by Yankee Glide. He spent $5.40 to secure victory.
The next NAADA action is set to take place in Monticello next Wednesday (April 10) for the fifth preliminary of the NAADA Spring Series. The first race at Monticello is scheduled to begin at 12:10 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.