by Patricia Miller, for GLADA

Hazel Park, MI — There’s no stopping or beating Mark Jones and his fine trotter Classic Spur. Once again this dynamic duo raced across the finish line ahead of all comers in 2:00.4 to capture the amateur race at Hazel Park on Monday (June 27).

Smokin Steven, driven by Steve Oldford, puffed his way home for the place dough and Mike Sweeney piloted Headed For Glory for the show position.

As the field of seven broke away from the gate, Hot Potato, driven by Kelly Walker, shot out to the lead followed closely by Classic Spur and Smokin Steven. A smoking quarter time of :28.2 found the field racing around the far turn and tearing down the stretch for the first time, with Hot Potato, appropriately, in the lead.

But by the half, Classic Spur had overtaken the lead in :58.4 with Hot Potato and Smokin Steven holding their own. The top of the stretch found the field in the same positions as they swung for home and the finish line loomed. Headed For Glory took him name seriously and he made his move to overtake Hot Potato who faded to fifth at the finish.

Aside from the three tote board finishers, the last four trotters were very close.