Grove City, OH — It was an action-packed night at MGM Northfield Park Wednesday (July 17) when rivals Sugar Instead and Jurassic Hattie battled for dominance in the third leg of the Ohio Sires Stakes for 3-year-old trotting fillies. The rivals were forced head-to-head as only one $100,000 division went behind the gate.

Sugar Instead cruised to a 2-1/2 length win in 1:55.3. Diane Wise photo.

Leaving from the second and third posts, respectively, Sugar Instead and Jurassic Hattie battled out of the gate. Guided by Kurt Sugg, Jurassic Hattie found herself on top with 4-5 favorite Sugar Instead and Brett Miller securely in the pocket.

Not to be intimidated, Jurassic Hattie set fractions in :28.1, :59, and 1:27. It was in the final turn that Miller urged Sugar Instead to challenge Jurassic Hattie. Sugar Instead answered the call, grabbing the lead and cruising to a 2-1/2 length win in 1:55.3. Jurassic Hattie held on for second while Roxanna (Aaron Merriman) finished third.

Trained by Virgil Morgan Jr. and owned by Joyce McClelland and Larry Wills, Sugar Instead is five-for-five in her 3-year-old season. The daughter of Volstead has bankrolled $481,425 in lifetime earnings.

Ohio Sires Stakes action continues Sunday night (July 21) at MGM Northfield Park with the second leg for 2-year-old colt and filly pacers. First race post is 6 p.m.