by Bob Lieberman

Marlborough, MA — Under blue skies and chilly temperatures, 13 qualifying races were held Monday (March 10) at Plainridge Racecourse in preparation for the track’s season opener on March 17.

The fastest mile of the day was turned in by Reynolds Hall (1:59), driven by Mike Eaton, trained by David Crochere and owned by John Brophy of Castine, Maine.

Idyl River Lindsey, trained and driven by Paul Magan and owned by Bruce Polishook of Plympton, Mass., post the day’s best trotting mile (2:03.1).

A good crowd was on hand as Eaton, who finished among the top five drivers at last year’s meet, had three winners on the qualifying card and Tom Carlstrom two.

Qualifying races continue at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, in preparation for next Monday’s 10th opening race program at Plainridge. The Tuesday, March 18, card has been moved to Wednesday, March 19, so horsemen and interested parties can attend Governor Deval Patrick’s casino proposal at a State House hearing before legislators.