from Meadowlands Media Relations

Trainer Nelson Willis had two reasons to smile on Thursday night when Apache Hotspur and Johns My Buddy finished one-two in the $19,000 second leg of the Fox Sports Net Series at the Meadowlands.

Driven by Cat Manzi, Apache Hotspur got up in the final strides to win the evening’s sixth race in 1:50.3, holding off his stablemate Johns My Buddy by a neck. It was a half-length back to Cut Loose Hanover in third.

Lisa Photo

Apache Hotspur got up in the final strides to win the 2nd leg of the Fox Sports Net Series in 1:50.3, holding off his stablemate Johns My Buddy by a neck.

Apache Hotspur and Johns My Buddy were two-thirds of a trio Willis raced in the Fox Sports Net. Unfortunately, their stablemate Incredible Art was never in contention and finished last.

Apache Hotspur improved his 2006 record to five wins in 13 starts; he has missed the board only once this season. Willis, who is based in Chicago, took over the training duties for the four-year-old gelding in December 2005 after owner and breeder Richard Beere of Waterford, Wisconsin approached him. At two and three, Apache Hotspur won five of 28 starts and earned just over $30,000. Three months into his four-year-old season, he has tripled that bankroll.

The $43,315 Fox Sports Net Series Final is next Thursday.