by Keith Gisser, assistant publicity director, Northfield Park

Northfield’s leading driver Greg Grismore won eight races at Northfield Friday, moving him into 7th place nationally.

Among his wins was the $7,500 Mares Open Pace, which saw him pilot Moon Buff to a minor upset over last week’s winner, Midnight Jewel. Moon Buff, trained by co-owner Mike Weller for partners Ron Klima, Phil Baldauf and John Tagliarini, sat the pocket and went by the pace-setting favorite to get a 1:54.2 win. Fractions were 26.4, 57.3 and 1:27.2. The blistering 27.1 final panel allowed Moon Buff to overcome Midnight Jewel.

Grismore won with five favorites, a 4-1, a 5-1 and the 2-1 feature winner. The 1:54.4 mile for Moon Buff was equaled by Shutupandkissme in the top conditioned event of the night. She was also piloted by Grismore.