by John Manzi, for the NAADA

Monticello, NY — During the month of April the two-track trotting series sponsored by the North American Amateur Drivers Association has been showcased at both Monticello and Yonkers Raceways and the series will now culminate with a $12,000 final which will be contested at Yonkers Raceway at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 5.

The eight participating trotters in the event will be driven by the amateurs who have earned the most points in the preliminary legs.

Though being raced as a non-betting affair, the one to beat appears to be the Robert Krivelin-driven Mr Troy who will come into the race sporting three consecutive victories, all in the prelims. The Lindy Lane stallion won twice at Monticello Raceway and once at Yonkers and his 2:01.1 triumph at the Mighty M on April 15 was the fastest clocking in the preliminary events.

However, Mr Troy has drawn post position eight which isn’t the ideal starting point, especially on a half-mile track.

“The eight-hole at any track is prohibitive but at Yonkers the turn from number eight is especially difficult,” Krivelin said about his trotter’s chances in the NAADA Final. “I think I’m the best although I have to hope for some kind of mistake by one of the other drivers but with this talented group it’s not likely.”

Former preliminary leg winners Winning Prince, Iroquouindianmagic and Arcaro could pose a problem for Mr Troy as could Invocation, who has the credentials to upset.

Young Cory Stratton will drive Invocation and leave from post two; Joe Faraldo will handle Winning Prince from post three; Alan Schwartz will drive Iroquouindianmagic and start from the four-hole; while Peter Gerry will be at the lines behind Arcaro from post seven.

And don’t count out Patsy B Happy from the pole position. Though she hasn’t won a NAADA preliminary leg driver Dave Yarock had her knocking at the door every time she competed.

According to NAADA president Joe Faraldo, the drivers’ percentages will be donated to the Richie Ingrassia fund.