Oak Grove, KY – Race Secretary Kevin Mack and Racing Operations Manager Cara Collins, along with the United States Harness Driving Club (USHDC), teamed up on Monday (July 14) to make a memorable day at Oak Grove Racing & Gaming.
With the spotlight on honoring the Christian County Cattlemen’s Association, the USHDC made a sizable donation to that organization enabling its mission of providing service, community leadership and scholarships to continue.
Just before the winner’s circle presentation, Zyler Maxwell piloted the aptly named Razor’s Edge to a 7-1/2 length victory in a “razor sharp” 1:53.2 win, lathering home with a smooth :27.2 finale for Gary Campbell, who trains the 9-year-old Sweet Lou gelding for owner Noah Stanley of the United Kingdom.
Ironically, the British-bred Ayr Pioneer GB finished second for Dein Spriggs, edging by Kissinbythebeaches and Peter Kleinhans near the wire.
Lucks On Time went a very gritty trip outside the entire route to finish fourth for Roy Marohn while Dragon Perfect picked up the final award for John Mungillo.
With Normandy Beach taking charge for Jim Brinson through an opening panel of :27, it was Ayr Pioneer GB on the attack with Kissinbythebeaches on a double-bubble assault to clear at the half in :55.2.
That one sprinted clear by three lengths at the third station and that’s where Maxwell tilted Razor’s Edge out and began shaving away at the leaders, assuming control and romping home while clean shaving the competition.
Once in the winner’s circle, Maxwell said, “Gary (trainer Campbell) said this horse can’t leave too much but he’s got a great motor when you give him some racetrack.
“The quick fractions helped and, when I gave him some room, he really fired up his engines!”
Razor’s Edge vaulted his 2025 bankroll to $29,430 on the strength of a 4-3-2 scorecard in 18 starts, with lifetime earnings now at $276,163.
Maxwell, now 19 years of age, has been winning races since 2022, with this win being his 58th lifetime as he enjoys his best year yet in the bike.
Jason Jenkins of the Christian County Cattlemen’s Association was in the winner’s circle for the presentation and remarked, “I have many people here to thank so we can continue serving our community.
“The amateur club member’s generosity helped us continue our work in the community, especially in awarding scholarships, and their recognition of our association is appreciated beyond words.
“Cara Collins has been just an unbelievable help here as we have enjoyed the races so much and been able to see so many of the things that make the racing as great as it is.
“The gentleman that makes the races up (Kevin Mack) so our charities can thrive, his help is very much appreciated …
“From the judges’ office to the announcer’s booth and even rides in the starting gate, this is an experience that is just amazing, thanks to Cara.”
Razor’s Edge kept the bettors happy, too, as the favorite returned $3.66 to win.