Freehold, NJ — There was a surprising result in Saturday’s Old Timers Pace at Freehold Raceway, as 14/1 Blue Strike got up to win over heavily favored Esprit de Kayjay.

Blue Strike, the lone 12-year-old in the field, sat a great trip, stalking the early leader, Esprit de Kayjay, in the pocket. In the stretch, Blue Strike came up the passing lane and wore down the leader in the last few strides.

This was Blue Strike’s first victory of 2018, in his 21st start. He is owned by John Palazzolo, trained by Mark Infante, and was driven to victory by Carl Cito Jr. For his career, Blue Strike has 48 wins from 235 starts and has earned more than $270,000.

Esprit de Kayjay and Stormin Rustler were honored in a retirement ceremony at Freehold Saturday. Vicki Wright photo.

After the race, the two 14-year-olds in the field, Esprit de Kayjay and seventh place-finisher Stormin Rustler, were honored with a ceremony in the winner’s circle. This was Stormin Rustler’s 396th and final start, wrapping up a career that included 54 wins and almost $500,000 in earnings. Esprit de Kayjay will race one more time in Monticello Raceway’s Retirement Invitational on December 31.

Also, on Saturday Freehold Raceway acknowledged 2018 leading driver, Andy Miller and leading Nick Surick.

Live racing resumes Friday with a first post time of 12:30 PM.