Saratoga Springs, NY — By The Book has really turned himself into a formidable Open trotter this season at Saratoga Casino Hotel. The Scott Mongeon-trained high-stepper scored a decisive win on Sunday afternoon (March 10) in the $15,000 Open Trot to record his second feature score this season.

By The Book’s Open score came in 1:56.2 by 5-1/2 lengths. Jessica Hallett photo.

By The Book, a 5-year-old son of Chapter Seven, drew post five for his Sunday try and utilized his improved post to flash early speed and make an easy lead. His regular driver Jay Randall got comfortable fractions for the 4-5 betting favorite who cruised unopposed through a first half in :57.4 before opening up a big lead on pocket-sitting City Of Hope past three- quarters in 1:27.

By The Book’s second Open score this year came in 1:56.2 by 5-1/2 lengths. City Of Hope (Jimmy Devaux) was the longest shot on the board at odds of 44-1 but held strong to be second while Comeonover Hanover (Billy Dobson) closed to be third.

By The Book led an exacta and triple that paid $71 and $340.50, respectively. The Open winner is owned in partnership by Charles Harrison, Frederick Barthelmas and Tina Murray.

Live racing continues on Monday afternoon with a matinee that begins at noon.