by Ayers Ratliff, for Northfield Park

Northfield, OH — Godiva Seelster crossed the finish line faster than any other mare in the history of harness racing on a half-mile track when she won the $17,000 F&M Open Handicap in 1:50 on Saturday (May 26) at Northfield Park.

JJ Zamaiko photo

Godiva Seelster and Greg Grismore posted a 1:50 win Saturday at Northfield Park. The clocking made her the fastest mare in the history of harness racing on a half-mile track.

The former 1:50.1 all-age record for distaff pacers on a half-mile oval was held in a tie by Call Me Queen Be and Feelin Red Hot.

Paul and Patricia O’Neil of Saratoga Springs, N.Y., own Godiva Seelster. Jessica Roegner is her conditioner and Greg Grismore was in the sulky for the winning drive.

Godiva Seelster (Camluck-Go Jme Go) started from post four. She left from the gate and led the entire mile through times of :26.2, :55.2, 1:22.1 and 1:50, besting her competition by 2-3/4 lengths.

Godiva Seelster now has seven wins in 16 starts this year. Saturday’s victory represents her 54th career score and bolstered her bankroll to $524,342. She returned $5.80 to win.