Odds On Racing - Harness Racing

Chocolatier Bests Glidemaster in Elim

September 16, 2006

Chocolatier and driver D.R. Ackerman reigned supreme in Saturday evening's $40,000 elimination for the $1-million Canadian Trotting Classic at Mohawk after being saddled with the rail, while rival Glidemaster left from the rail.

The son of Credit Winner bested the 2006 Hambletonian champion in a time of 1:53.1.

After being first up to the :27.3 opening quarter, Chocolatier made the lead just before the :56.3 half mile marker, and cruised to a 1:26 three-quarter clocking. In the final yards Chocolatier held off his rival to win by a head. Majestic Son was third.

"I knew that [Glidemaster] was right there and would be coming hard," said Ackerman. "I didn't know if I could hold him off or not. And, without a doubt, he'll be coming hard next week as well."

It was the 14th career win for Chocolatier, who pushed his 2006 record to 6-3-0 from 11 starts. The trotter has earned over $820,000 this eyar for owners Doug Ackerman Stables Inc. of Warren, MI, Southwind Farm of East Rockaway, NY, and Lindy Farms of Enfield, CT.

Chocolatier's connections had the option to accept a bye from the elimination and go straight to the final, but they decided to test their luck in the elimination anyway.

"We wanted to race him," Ackerman explained. "He had received a week off, and he performs better when he races under a regular system. We wanted to stay within the program."

With the elimination victory, the connections of Chocolatier were able to select their charge's post position for the final. They opted for Post 1.