Don’ttouchmytruck clocks fastest mile for second straight week

HASTINGS, Mich. — Don’ttouchmytruck (Racing Hill – Age of Consent) and harness racing driver Kody Massey paced the fastest mile of the meet for the second consecutive week Wednesday, stopping the timer in 1:54.1 to capture the featured $14,000 Open Pace at Northville Downs at Barry Expo Center.

Born Wild (Gerald Malady) left alertly from post position five, but was immediately challenged by Two Birds Onestone (Jennifer Main), who opened up a quick three-length lead. Two Birds Onestone reached the quarter in 27.4 and continued to lead through the half, opening several lengths on the field while posting a half-mile time of 56.2.

Don’ttouchmytruck, leaving from post seven, was initially stacked up behind dull cover but moved three wide around the cover at the half-mile mark. He advanced on the outside and settled into second as the field headed toward the backstretch.

Two Birds Onestone reached three-quarters in 1:25.1, but Don’ttouchmytruck continued to close the gap from second. Entering the final turn, Massey pulled alongside Two Birds Onestone, setting up a spirited duel into the stretch.

Once straightened for home, Don’ttouchmytruck gradually wore down the early leader and pulled away to a 1 1/4-length victory. He paced his final quarter in 28.3 to complete the mile in 1:54.1. Two Birds Onestone finished second, with Born Wild third.

Don’ttouchmytruck is bred, owned and trained by Judy Roegner, who recorded two training victories on the card and continues to lead all trainers at the meet.

Massey recorded five driving victories on the day, further cementing his position atop the meet

For complete race results, click here: US Trotting results

By Kenneth W. Terpenning for Northville Downs at Barry Expo Center