Dover, DE — Twelve-year-old trotter JL Cruze proved on Tuesday (Jan. 10) at Bally’s Dover that you’re never too old to have fun, scoring in 1:54 in his second consecutive start in the $18,000 Winners Over/Select Trot.

Just as he did last week, JL Cruze won an early battle for the lead, forcing Northern Express into the pocket and newcomer Highland Mowgli into third through a rapid :27.1 opening quarter before rating a :56.1 half. Up the backstretch, JL Cruze braced for a challenge from the pesky Highland Mowgli, who gained onto even terms with the leader past three-quarters in 1:24.2. JL Cruze dug deep in the stretch to repel Highland Mowgli and to stave off Northern Express’ rally from the pocket by a hard-fought neck. Judge Bob charged home late to finish third.

JL Cruze registered back-to-back wins to kick off his 12-year-old season. Fotowon photo.

JL Cruze, a son of Crazed, is trained by Eric Ell for owners Ken Wood, Bill Dittmar Jr. and Stephen Iaquinta.

Tony Morgan drove four winners on the card; trainer Shea Lare, owner Frank Chick and driver Pat Berry all recorded triples.

Wednesday’s (Jan. 11) feature at Bally’s Dover is the Mares Open Handicap Pace, featuring Incaseyoudidntknow taking on Majorca N and Always B First. First post is 4:30 p.m.