Freehold, NJ — Bob Hechkoff launched from off the speed through the final turn and landed the winning blow on the line to take the $9,000 American Harness Drivers Club (AHDC) Trot at Freehold Raceway on Saturday (Jan. 27).

Leaving from post four, Hechkoff floated off the wings with Southwind Frost to race in sixth while 3-1 favorite Call Me Thefireman (Anthony Verruso) shot for and secured the lead before a :30.1 first quarter. Awol Hanover (Steven Reisenweaver) then came calling for the front and crossed over to control before a 1:01.2 half as action began emerging off the pylons.

Dingle (Yogi Sheridan) angled off the pegs from fifth and led the two-wide charge after Awol Hanover moving for the backstretch, though he charge tapered coming to three-quarters in 1:32.2. Empereurthebest FR (James Slendorn) and Southwind Frost flew off their cover and began a wide assault through the final turn while Awol Hanover continued to cling to command. Spinning for home, Southwind Frost had the most momentum and downed a game Awol Hanover by a head in a 2:03.3 mile while Empereurthebest FR levelled off and settled for third with Brownie (Mike Polansky) taking fourth.

Michael Fiumenero conditions Southwind Frost, an 8-year-old gelding by E L Titan, for owner R.B.H. Ventures Inc. He paid $12.20 to win.

AHDC action resumes next Saturday (Feb. 3) at Freehold Raceway. First-race post time is 12:30 p.m.