Monticello, NY — Although it appeared that the six-horse NAADA Trot on Thursday (Oct. 17) at Monticello Raceway had an evenly matched field, Ladys Big Stormont trotted off to win by 6-1/2 lengths in 2:02 on the wet and windy afternoon over a track rated good.

Ladys Big Stormont and Alan Schwartz were much the best in Thursday’s NAADA event at Monticello Raceway. Geri Schwarz photo.

When the starter said “go,” Schwartz hustled his charge for the lead and they showed by the first quarter in a soft :29.4.

“When we left out of there, I really wanted to follow Faraldo (with Tough Get Going) and settle in behind him, but when his horse made a break before the start, I decided to go to the front and was pleased that we got a soft (first) quarter,” Schwartz said.

Once comfortably on top, Schwartz was able to control the fractions and he and his trotter cruised by the half in 1:01.2 as Joe Pennacchio had Cheeky Little Minx tight on his back. But as they headed for the three-quarters, Ladys Big Stormont began to draw off by some 3-1/2 lengths. From there, the only thing in doubt would be the margin of victory.

In mid-stretch, Paul Minore and Six Bax rallied for second money, while Cheeky Little Miss faded to third.

It was the sixth seasonal triumph and the 42nd career victory for the 8-year-old altered son of Earl Of Stormont, who raised his lifetime earnings to over $334,000.

Lady Big Stormont is owned and trained by his driver. Sent off as the favorite in the race, he paid $3.80 to win.