Stallion ends drought with first start in eight months

Drinkin Buddy (Your Nemesis) made his first trip to the winner’s circle since November 2021 in a seventh-to-first harness racing victory off an eight-month layoff at The Raceway at the Western Fair District on Monday (Jan. 23).

The stallion, a homebred for trainer and co-owner Heather Pickett, started seventh in rein to Tyler Borth. He shifted onto cover third-over as the field passed the stands and swung further wide at the top of the lane. Punchesinbunches (Garrett Rooney), who turned for home with a massive lead, staggered down the stretch and fell into the clutches of the field. Drinkin Buddy charged fastest, catching the leader and out-kicking two other rivals to win in 2:00.3. He returned $40.70 for the win.

DRINKIN BUDDY REPLAY

The four-year-old’s 2022 season, in which he was winless through 11 starts, ended in May. He returned to the track in a Dec. 21 qualifier before qualifying again on Jan. 12. He is so far perfect – albeit through one start – this year. Pickett co-owns the stallion with her husband, Rick Pickett.

The Raceway at the Western Fair District will continue racing on Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 5:50 p.m. EST.

For complete race results, click here.

by Nicholas Barnsdale, for Harnesslink