Northville, MI – The $9,500 Open Pace highlighted the Saturday night (Nov. 18) program at The Ville with Coalford Bythesea (Downbytheseaside – Stormy Novel) and driver Justin Irvine riding the pocket to win by 1-1/2 lengths in 1:55.1.

Coalford Bythesea won the featured Open Pace on Saturday night at Northville Downs. Renae Parsons photo.

Coalford Bythesea and Justin Irvine left hard for the early lead with newcomer Game of Change and Southwind Amazon to an opening quarter in :27.1. As the early dust settled, Southwind Amazon dictated the pace to a half in :56.2 while being pressed by a first-up Fred’s Nightmare.

As they swung to the backstretch, Fred’s Nightmare and Drew took over the lead to three-quarters in 1:25 as Southwind Amazon faltered. Coalford Bythesea immediately popped from the pocket to tackle Fred’s Nightmare, taking over the lead and storming home to victory. Fred’s Nightmare finished second and Executive Dash N got up for third.

Coalford Bythesea earned his 12th career victory and is owned and trained by Gerald Malady.

Driver Lindsay Moen had a driving hat trick while drivers Jason Merriman, Justin Irvine and Art McIlmurray had driving doubles. Trainers Gerald Malady and Art McIlmurray had training doubles as well on the evening.

Northville Downs resumes racing on Friday (Nov. 24) with a first post time of 7 p.m. Friday is dollar night at The Ville with $1 pop, live programs and popcorn, $2 hot dogs and beer and hamburger and cheeseburger specials.

Northville Downs closes out their 2023 race meet Friday and Saturday night (Nov. 24-25) with a 7 p.m. post time. A retirement ceremony will be held Saturday (Nov. 25) for the 14-year-old horses that have raced at Northville Downs over the past few years.
For live racing dining reservations, be sure to call Northville Downs in advance at 248.924.2073.