Yonkers, NY — As the NAADA Trotting Series’ third seasonal program nears its finale, a short field went to post on Thursday night (Nov. 21) at Yonkers Raceway. Miguel Alejo-Hernandez emerged victorious with Tropical Trice in 2:01.1, defeating four others in the $8,000 event which went to post prior to the betting card.

To say that Alejo-Hernandez was happy would be a gross understatement, since it was his first ever driving victory. He was overwhelmed by a great congratulatory reception that his competitors gave him in the paddock after the race.

A member of the Rob Harmon stable operation, Alejo-Hernandez eased his trotter away from the starting gate and settled in the four-hole as Joe Faraldo and Muzzys Muscles showed the way by the first quarter in a soft :29.2.

Comfortable on the lead, Faraldo was in charge until late in the mile, when Blazin Delores (Brett Beckwith) and Starsaboveallerage (Tony Verruso) came calling. Faraldo’s charge rebuffed their challenges and he felt he was home free. But, by his own admission, he never saw the late rally from Tropical Trice and Alejo-Hernandez on the far outside. When the finish line photo snapped, Tropical Trice won by a half length over Muzzys Muscles. Starsaboveallerage was third, 1-1/4 lengths farther back.

On Dec. 4, the series consolation will be contested at Monticello Raceway, and the $15,000 NAADA Series final will be raced at Yonkers Raceway on Dec. 5.