by John Manzi, for the C.K.G. Billings Series

Monticello, NY — As the six-month Billings Harness Drivers Series heads for home two non-betting divisions in the Eastern Region were contested at Yonkers Raceway on Thursday evening, October 24 and both Steve ”You’re Never Too” Oldford and Bobby “Rapid Rail” Krivelin each emerged victorious in their respective splits.

Oldford and his Billings veteran Celtic Merchant scored their knockout in a time of 2:00 and Krivelin’s Current Crisis held on to win their division in 2:00.4.

“It was a great race. My horse raced real well and I learned something last night,” Oldford said by telephone after he winged his way back to Michigan.

“I lost the race at Saratoga last week by going too slow to the half. Last night I was sitting fourth nearing the midway point so when they started to back it up I was out and going and once I made the front my old warrior kept on rolling and we won it by two lengths. “

Sir Kensington came from fifth at the top of the lane to finish second for Harvey “Doc” Stein and Wygant Prince was third for Paul “the Coach” Minore.

Krivelin won his division nearly the same way Oldford did. After stating from the six-hole with Current Crisis they found a spot in third position along the pylons and as they approached the half Krivlein moved his trotter to the outside but it wasn’t until the three-quarters that they took command. Once on the lead they braced for a late rally from Donnamom and driver Dave “Llinemaster” Ehrenberg but Current Crisis was up to the challenge and the 4-year-old gelding held on for a head victory. Third place went to Keystone Sadie driven by Peter “the Past President” Gerry.

“He’s a nice horse “Krivelin said about Current Crisis.” He was the Maine Sires Stakes champion last year.”

However, there was something that was more impressive to Krivelin.

“The best thing last night was that Hall of Famer and longtime proponent of amateur racing, Ebby Gerry, witnessed the races and saw an amateur driver top $1 million in purse money.”

For Krivelin it was a milestone night. He scored his 150th amateur driving victory and his lifetime purse earnings are now $1,004,631.

On Saturday, November 9 the Eastern Region Final #2 will be contested at Pocono Downs for the top point earners in that region.