by John Manzi, publicity director, Monticello Raceway

Monticello, NY — When Jordan Stratton reined Fox Valley Roper to a 1:57.3 triumph at Monticello Raceway on Tuesday (June 14), it marked the 10th seasonal victory for the 11-year-old Sportsmaster gelding. The pacer’s victory was his third consecutive against $10,000 claiming company, all in times of 1:57.3 or faster.

Geri Schwarz photo

Jordan Stratton urged Fox Valley Roper to the pacer’s 10th seasonal triumph.

Now with his 10 wins, Fox Valley Roper is tied for 10th place in races won in North America thus far this season and for Stratton it was the first time he sat behind the Ross Claridge-trained pacer.

In that contest there was plenty of action. Nevertroubletroubl (Brandon Simpson) took command on the first turn and parked out Behind Enemy Lines (Jim Devaux) who then led the field to the half at which point Stratton, who was sitting third along the pylons, pulled Fox Valley Roper in front of two others who were moving toward the leader.

From there Fox Valley Roper finally wore down Devaux’s pacer to took command and then held off a fast closing Michael’s Jewel and Zeke Parker to win in 1:57.3 over a muddy racetrack.

“He (Fox Valley Roper) certainly is a gritty horse,” Stratton acknowledged. “I moved him first-up at the half and he just kept grinding. We finally cleared in the final turn and he still had enough in the tank to hold off Zeke’s horse (Michael’s Jewel) who was right on my back from the halfway point.”

Sent off as the favorite from the two hole, Fox Valley Roper paid $5.20 to win. He is owned by Christa Claridge.