by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Northfield, OH — Jebswesternshake was the winner of the $9,500 Open Pace in Northfield Park’s third race on Monday (Feb. 3).

JJ Zamaiko photo

Jebswesternshake was a 1:52.1 winner in the Open Pace.

Staci Malady owns the 9-year-old pacer. Trainer Gerald Malady called upon Northfield Park leading driver Josh Sutton to pilot.

Jebswesternshake (Western Hanover-Shake Away) started from the rail and led at every call through blistering fractions of :27, :55.1, 1:23.1 and 1:52.1. Jebswesternshake easily handled his competition and was 4-1/4 lengths in front at the wire. Completing the race were Hall Of Memories, Brown Titan, PL Dragon, Nathan Feelsgood, Bestinthebusiness and Save Me A Place.

Monday’s triumph increased Jebswesternshake’s lifetime win tally to 35 and his career earnings to $187,974. He returned $9.80 to win.

In the evening’s eighth race, Classical Man captured the $10,000 Open Trot for owner/trainer William Bercury. Aaron Merriman picked up the winning drive behind the 13-year-old gelding.

Classical Man (Malabar Man-Classical Motion) started from post seven and sat the pocket through fractions of :28.1, :57.4 and 1:26.3. Merriman drove Classical Man into the passing lane and bested his competition by a neck, stopping the clock at 1:55.2. Completing the race were Victory Is Coming, Pembroke Snapshot, Zorgwijk Heavenly, Easy Strength, Bookem and Sand Royal Blu. Diamond Hunter was scratched.

Classical Man now has 41 career successes. Monday’s victory pushed his bankroll to $624,073. He was an upset winner, paying $41.20 to win.