by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Northfield, OH — Aaron Merriman, 35, scored the 6,000th win of his driving career while piloting B Good Lena in Northfield Park’s 13th race on Tuesday (Oct. 8).

Merriman brushed the mare to the lead in the second quarter and held off hard charging competition by a half-length in 1:58.1. B Good Lena was the race favorite and returned $3.60 to win.

JJ Zamaiko photo

Aaron Merriman is congratulated in the winner’s circle after his milestone triumph.

“It is a really nice accomplishment and I am very thankful for the career I have had,” stated Merriman. “I have been given many great opportunities and have driven horses for a lot of really good people.”

Merriman’s richest win came in a $300,000 Kentucky Sire Stakes final behind Palazzo Princess. His fastest win was timed in 1:50 and he rates the toughest horse he has ever driven as Midnight Jewel.

Merriman remembers his first win was with a pacing mare named Albert’s Filly at Raceway Park in Toledo, Ohio.

Although there are 6,000 to choose from, Merriman says that he has no favorite win.

“They all feel the same,” explained Merriman. “The winner’s circle is always happy and you never get tired of making people happy.”

Merriman started driving at the age of 21 and appreciates the successful 14-year career he has experienced so far, not only hitting the 6,000 win milestone, but also driving horses that have purse earnings in excess of $30 million.

“I don’t have any real aspirations at this point,” explained Merriman. “I would just like to continue to compete at the same level I am at right now for a long, long time. I guess that longevity is my goal at this point.”