by Keith Gisser, assistant publicity director, Northfield Park

Northfield, OH — Shirley Otto’s Perfect Door, trained by her husband, Jim, wired the field in Saturday’s (Jan. 20) $11,500 Invitational Pace at Northfield Park, cruising to a blistering 1:52.4 win on the 23 degree night.

Elliott Deaton made good use of the rail, putting the 5-year-old Threefold gelding on the front with an opening :28.1 panel and securing the win with a :27.4 third quarter as he held off King Cole and Key Western to get the win.

The win was part of a consecutive triple for Deaton, who also won the 14th race to post a four-bagger to secure his hold on second place in the local driver’s standings. Third-ranked Ryan Stahl doubled, as did leading driver Aaron Merriman and Todd Jones.

Polo Jenn posts a Jenn-uine effort

Polo Jenn took advantage of an early speed duel in Friday’s (Jan. 19) $9,000 Mares Open Handicap Pace, posting a 1:56.4 win for owner Jack Shearer and trainer Jeff Cox.

Ryan Stahl drove the Polo Player mare, who got away fourth as Huntin For Trouble, K J Six and Townline Rosanna battled for the early lead, three-wide past the :28.1 opening quarter. K J Six cleared to the front and Huntin For Trouble took the pocket as Townline Rosanna attempted to battle on at the :58 half, but Stahl moved Polo Jenn to the outside and she was on top at the 1:27.1 three-quarters. Mama Cash closed for second and M D Jewel was third.

The win was one of three for Stahl on the night.