by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Northfield, OH — Todd Jones achieved a career milestone in the seventh race on Northfield Park’s Wednesday (Oct. 19) card as he piloted his 2,000th career victory aboard NF Noteworthy ($10.60).

Jones pulled the Kelly O’Donnell trained mare approaching the half and she dueled with Lost Photo for over a quarter of a mile before drawing clear and winning by two lengths, stopping the clock in 2:01.1 over a sloppy track.

Jones began his driving career in 1982 at Fairmount Park in Illinois and moved to Quad City Downs before finding his way to Cleveland. Jones spent many years driving at Northfield Park and for the last couple years took his driving skills to Indiana Downs and Hoosier Park. The familiar maroon, gold and white colors will continue to be seen at Northfield Park.

“I’ll be here for a while,” commented Jones.

“My dad Gerald is the person I credit for being the most influential person in my life and driving career.”

Jones’ career purse earnings are just shy of $8 million to go along with his 2,000 wins. Jones’ first win was with a pacer named Timely Renvey and his best year was 1999 when he drove 214 winners with purses in excess of $900,000.

Jones had a tough time naming the best horse he has ever driven.

“It would be a close call between Shutupandkissme, Uphill Battle and V Anna Happy Star,” recalled Jones. “Uphill Battle was my fastest win, I won with him in 1:51.1 at Scioto Downs.”

Jones mentioned the biggest race he ever won was the final of the Ohio Sires Stakes, which he has won three times.

Jones prefers driving on a half-mile track.

“Really any half, but my favorite is Northfield, that’s where I’ve spent most of my time.”