December 24, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland

CUMBERLAND, ME – The final day of the Cumberland’s Winter Festival extended pari-mutuel meet included an appearance by Santa Claus in the first race, along with a thrilling dead heat in the $10,000 Holly Late Closer Final on Christmas Eve Sunday (Dec. 24).

In the $7,000 Gingerbread consolation opener the judges approved a late ‘driver change’ on the five horse He Can Rock to Jolly ol’ Saint Nick himself, as the spirit of Christmas hustled his charge to the lead following a feisty :28.2 opening panel.

After clearing before the half in :59, Kris Kringle held on through the third panel of 1:28.2 but was enveloped by fresh horses down the lane with a blanket finish going to Quick Fun N at 20-1.

Driven by Steve Wilson, he paid $42.00 to win in 1:59.2.

Four individual $10,000 late closing finals highlighted the closing card, the first going to Namesmuscle in the Jack Frost Trot in 2:00.4.  Driven by Nick Graffam for trainer Aaron Hall and owner Bill ‘Yarmouth Lumber’ Phipps, he paid $9.80 to win.

The $10,000 Gingerbread final went to Lucan Hanover and owner-trainer-driver Aaron Hall by a neck from post seven.  Scoring in 2:00, they paid $11.20 to win.

In the $10,000 Rudolph Late Closer the unstoppable Art Of Endurance took his fifth win in a row, scoring in 1:57.4.  Driven by Kevin Switzer Jr., the 5-year-old son of Artspeak is trained by Benson Merrill and owned by John and Thelma Kiernan and Tom Bemont.  He paid $2.80 to win.

The holiday crowd was treated to an exciting dead heat in the $10,000 Holly final between Pretty Gorgeous (Kevin Switzer Jr.) and Whatchagonnadoboo (Walter Case Jr.).  The latter was bred and is owned and trained by Eric Bickmore, where the former, Pretty Gorgeous, is trained by Benson Merrill and also owned by Thelma and John Kiernan.

The Kiernan’s own a farm in Augusta, Maine, but are originally from Montgomery, New York and now call Gardiner, NY home.  They were also hand for yesterday’s Au Revoir Showcase.

“It’s been a long time coming,” noted John Kiernan when asked about his two victories in the late closing finals.  “The Standardbred industry has been very good to me over the years, so I am happy to give back.”

An educator for 35 years in the Pine Bush (NY) School System, Kiernan was also a trainer-driver at Monticello Raceway. 

“We consider ourselves Mainers now, and look forward to racing the horses we bred in the Maine Sire Stakes in the future.”

Dakota Jackson won the $8,000 winter Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) final with Kasey John A in 1:58.4.  As always, the MADC events are sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham.

Kevin Switzer Jr. had three wins on the program, making him the leading Cumberland’s dash winning driver of the 2023 racing season with 81 victories.  Bruce Ranger was second with 76.  Jeff Deslandes (33) and Benson Merrill (32) were the leading conditioners.

First Track Cumberland enjoyed a $557,000 gross handle over the final weekend, with the percentage of winning favorites at 35% and currently the lowest in North America of all harness tracks.

Racing resumes at Cumberland in April 2024 for another extended pari-mutuel racing season, with over 50 dates already approved the Maine State Harness Racing Commission.

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

December 23, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland

CUMBERLAND, ME – Retiring pacer Ira Chief made his final official start as a 14-year-old a winning one, conquering his peers in the $6,000 Auld Lang Syne race at Cumberland on Saturday (Dec. 23), which was part of the track’s third annual Au Revoir Retirement Showcase.

Race six on the Winter Festival’s penultimate card was reserved for the soon-to-be retired racehorses.  Four 14-year-olds lined up behind the Wes Brown starting gate and when the wings folded the fastest record holder of the bunch, Cee Pee Panic, was out and pushing to the top.  Driven by Garrett Mosher, he got to the first panel in :29.4 without much urging.  As predicted by announcer Mike Cushing, the half was a much slower 1:02 as the field prepared for their last dash for the cash. 

Nick Graffam driving Ira Chief pulled the pocket into a 1:32 third stanza and used his momentum to cruise through the far turn as the new leader with cousin Bruce Ranger hot on his heels second over with his own Twin B Impressive, the 3-5 favorite.

‘Storming down the stretch for the final time,’ exclaimed announcer Cushing as the son of Chief Silverheels prevailed by a pair of lengths in 2:00.4.  Trained by Mike Graffam, it was the 53^rd win of his lengthy career, paying $6.00 to win.  In the winner’s circle the connections swarmed around the big steed, who stood patiently amidst the fanfare and a visibly moved owner and part-time caretaker Chris Hamilton.

Cee Pee Panic hung on for second; Twin B Impressive was third, with Penney’s Spirit finishing fourth for McKenzie Sowers.  All four horses returned to winners circle following the race to be recognized one final time for their on-track career performances.

The entire day was dedicated to the Maine harness racing industry and the seventeen 14-year-old Standardbreds with Pine Tree State connections.  Throughout the card the horses and their handlers, walked, jogged, were ridden and otherwise paraded in front of the stands while being recognized by the announcer, photographed and feted in the winner’s circle with gifts and prizes, and most of all—admired by the fans. 

The entire day was dedicated to these special horses, with the sixth race reserved for the soon-to-be retirees. Overall, the 17 horses have combined earnings of $5.4 million, which is an average of $316,123.  The combined start total is a staggering 5,200 with an average of 305 starts per horse.  Total combined wins are 761 with an average of 45 victories per horse.  Below is a list of all the 14-year-old participants and their credentials and trainer or current owner.

Cee Pee Panic p,5,1:49.2f       $474,000        John Kiernan, Benson Merrill

Drunk And Dramatic   p,4,1:52.0f       $118,391        Michel Bilodeau

Fuzzylegsandall           p,6,1:51.1f       $356,149        Gretchen Athearn

Ira Chief          p,5,1:50.1        $558,372        Mike Graffam, Chris Hamilton

J J S Jet            p,8,1:51.2h      $315,754        Jaelynn Swan, Drew Campbell

Mountain Rock            p,6,1:53.1f       $79,054          Shelly Basford

Natural Breeze            p,7,1:55.0f       $145,591        Craig Hall, Kirsi Bertolini

Neverdie         9,1:55.0f          $328,417        Mike Cushing, Sara Fernald

Northview Punter N    p,7,1:51.0f       $518,483        Michelle Hardin

Nucular Enemy           p,4,1:52.4f       $245,006        Brian Kelley

Penney’s Spirit            p,8,1:54h         $222,538        McKenzie Sowers

Putnam’s Storm          p,5,1:50.4        $199,548        Bob Nadeau

Remix  p,3,1:53.3f       $148,161        Sharon Hardy

Southern Swan            p,8,1:53.0f       $205,080        Amy Taggart

Stardust Memories     8,1:54.1f          $338,596        Eric Bickmore

Supreme Mach N        p,8,1:50.3f       $446,057        Dalton Lee

Twin B Impressive       p,4,1:51.0        $674,900        Mary Beth Ranger

Two of the participants, Neverdie and J J S Jet, were both former Maine state record holders for their respective gaits and got together before the event for an historic photo op.  Steve Wilson, co-owner of trotter Neverdie, was joined by Jaelynn Swan, a 15-year-old high school student and equestrian enthusiast, the new owner of J J S Jet.

In addition to a half page biography with photos throughout the program, each horse’s connections received a Barbara Dresser-designed and handcrafted name plaque, a Blue Seal Feeds Gift Bag, and a couple of Souvenir Programs.  They will also receive a Joe Shaw photo of the festivities.

The $10,000 featured Winners Over Pace was captured by The Bird Dance N in 1:56.1.  Driven by Dan Deslandes for trainer Karl Butterfield, the 8-year-old son of A Rocknroll Dance is owned by Jose Cerventes and paid $6.60 to win.  Alex Having Fun (Aaron Hall) finished second; Drinka Beer (Bruce Ranger) was third.

Kevin Switzer Jr. had four wins on the program, pushing him to the lead in the Cumberland’s overall drivers’ standings with 78.  Following close behind with 76 is perennial leader Bruce Ranger, who had a pair of winners.  Dan Deslandes and Nick Graffam also picked up two wins on the afternoon card.

On Sunday’s closing day (Dec. 24) the track will host four $10,000 finals of the various Winter Late Closing series, with five additional $7,000 consolations to compliment the card.  In addition, the $8,000 winter Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) final will be contested as race two.  As always, the MADC events are sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham.

First Tracks Cumberland will offer a $5,000 guaranteed Pick-5 pool on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24), which is carried on races 3 through 7 and have a mandatory payout.

Racing concludes at Cumberland with the final Winter Festival racing date on Sunday (Dec. 24).  First post is 10:50 am.

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

December 22, 2023 – by Feature and photos by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland

CUMBERLAND, ME – Two of Maine harness racing’s favorite elder statesmen, 85-year-old Bob Nadeau and his trusty 14-year-old gray steed Putnams Storm made quick work of the $7,000 Frost Final at Cumberland on Friday (Dec. 22), winning the pop-up series final in 2:02.1, and putting an exclamation point on a poignant career.

“I feel wonderful,” noted the tireless octogenarian after the win.  “I’ll never own another horse like him.”

Surely the fastest and richest maritime-bred gray pacer in history, Putnams Storm puts the cherry on the top of notable harness racing career where he has eclipsed $200,000 in lifetime earnings and took a mark of 1:50.4 at the Red Mile at age five.

While today’s victory was the 40^th of his career, the 14-year-old son of Force Of Life may be back next year to race in special events.  “I will keep him going and racing as long as he is sound and he enjoys it,” exclaimed Nadeau, a concrete step salesman for the last 50 year.  “We can race in the amateurs and at the fairs.  But, we will quit if tells me that it’s time.”

At one point Putnams Storm was 1-5 on the board with five minutes to post, but had gone off at 4-1 from pylon position.  He got away third and moved first over past a 1:00.4 half.  He had stepped away from the field amidst a breaker past the five-eighths and was on top and drawing off at the 1:31 third stanza.

Cruising home a winner by 2-3/4 lengths, the pair paid $10.40 to win.  Robert ‘Bob’ Nadeau is the listed owner and trainer, and of course the driver and caretaker.  He returns to Cumberland on Saturday (Dec. 23) to be recognized during the Au Revoir Retirement Showcase.

Wagering favorite Best Choice (Nick Graffam) finished second; Rest Assured (Mike Stevenson) was third.

Fittingly, another gray horse, Air Force Grad, won the first of the $5,000 Frosty consolations.  Driven by Steve Wilson and trained and owned by Charlene ‘Sherry’ Cushing, the 12-year-old son of The Panderosa came from off the pace to score in 2:02.2.  They paid $11.20 to win.

Aaron Hall and Walter Case Jr. had two wins on the program.   In the overall drivers standings, Bruce Ranger and Kevin Switzer Jr. are both tied with 74 wins apiece heading into Saturday’s card.

Saturday (Dec. 23) is a big day in the Maine harness racing industry as seventeen 14-year-old Standardbreds, including the aforementioned Putnams Storm, will parade in front of the stands, be recognized by the announcer, photographed and feted in the winners circle with gifts and prizes.  The Au Revoir Retirement Showcase also includes a special $6,000 Auld Lang Syne, exclusively for 14-year-old pacers. 

On Sunday’s closing day (Dec. 24) the track will host four $10,000 finals of the various Winter Late Closing series, with five additional $7,000 consolations to compliment the card.  In addition, the $8,000 winter Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) final will be contested as race two.  As always, the MADC events are sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham.

First Tracks Cumberland will offer a $5,000 guaranteed Pick-5 pool on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24), which is carried on races 3 through 7 and have a mandatory payout.

Racing resumes Saturday (Dec. 23) at Cumberland, as the final Winter Festival weekend concludes with year-end action on Sunday (Dec. 24).  First post is 10:50 am each day.

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/ Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

December 21, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland

CUMBERLAND, ME – First Tracks Cumberland has a host of lucrative series finals as well as the third annual Au Revoir Retirement Showcase slated for closing weekend, which runs from Friday (Dec. 22) through Christmas Eve Sunday (Dec. 24).

Friday’s card (Dec. 22) is highlighted by the $7,000 Frosty Final, a pop-up series that was for TrackMaster 60 pacers.  The early morning line favorite at 3-1 is Best Choice (Nick Graffam) is hampered with post eight.  Blessed with pylon position is fan favorite Putnams Storm (Bob Nadeau), the gray horse with the big heart.  Carded as race seven, there are also a couple of $5,000 Frosty consolations sprinkled throughout the 10-race program.

Saturday (Dec. 23) is a big day in the Maine harness racing industry as seventeen 14-year-old Standardbreds will parade in front of the stands, recognized by the announcer, and feted and photographed in the winners circle with gifts and prizes.  The Au Revoir Retirement Showcase includes a special $6,000 Auld Lang Syne, exclusively for 14-year-old pacers. 

The entire day is dedicated to these special horses, with the sixth race marked for the soon-to-be retirees. Overall, the 17 horses have combined earnings of $5.4 million, which is an average of $316,123.  The combined start total is a staggering 5,193 with an average of 305 starts per horse.  Total combined wins are 760 with an average of 45 victories per horse. 

The fastest record belongs to Cee Pee Panic (1:49.2f), and he is also the most decorated Standardbred with 65 trips to the winners circle.  He will make his 400^th career start in the Auld Lang Syne race.  The richest participant is Twin B Impressive ($674,900), who also competes in the aforementioned special race.  The average win time of all the retirees is an equally impressive 1:52.1.

A special commemorative program has been produced and contains biographies and photos of the equine stars, as well as a chance for fans to win prizes.

There is also a $10,000 Winners Over Handicap in race seven, with top pacers Alex Having Fun (Aaron Hall, 3-1) and The Bird Dance N (Dan Deslandes, 5-2) looking for the lion’s share of that top purse.

On Sunday’s closing day (Dec. 24) the track will host four $10,000 finals of the various Winter Late Closing series, with five additional $7,000 consolations to compliment the card.  In addition, the $8,000 winter Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) final will be contested as race two.  As always, the MADC events are sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham.

First Tracks Cumberland will offer a $5,000 guaranteed Pick-5 pool on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24), which is carried on races 3 through 7 and have a mandatory payout.

All the live harness racing action begins on Friday (Dec. 22) at Cumberland, the final Winter Festival weekend with year-end action on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  First post is 10:50 am each day.

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

December 18, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland (Joe Shaw photos)

CUMBERLAND, ME – Driver Aaron Hall swept all three of the $6,000 divisions of the Jack Frost Trotting series at Cumberland on Sunday (Dec. 17), two of which were from his own stable, and one from his dad Craig’s barn. 

In the first division Hall came first over with Matt So Sure, parked the last half and prevailing by 1-1/4 lengths in a 2:00.2, a seasonal best.  Trained and co-owned by Craig Hall with Cody Kelley, the 5-year-old son of Noble Venture picked up the fourth win of his last six starts, and fifth of the season.   He paid $4.00 to win and now has earnings of $32,366 this year.

Prescott (Andy Harrington) finished second; Starlit Thiswanman (Nick Graffam) was third.

Hall came right back to win the second division with Bill Phipps’ Namesmuscle.  The Maine native put the 11-year-old son of Muscle Mass right on the front end and maintained command every step of the way.  Holding off the late charge of High Gear No Fear (Mike Stephenson), they tripped the timer in 2:02, winning by a head.  Namesmuscle is also trained by Aaron Hall and paid $2.40 to win for the 49^th time of his career.  It was his fifth win in a row, which brought his seasonal get to $27,630.

Warrawee Preferred (Nick Graffam) finished third.

The third and final division went to Hall’s own Knight Angel, a recent purchase from the Orange Crush stable of Andy and Julie Miller.  This was the 7-year-old Archangel gelding’s second victory since making Maine his new home, scoring in 2:00.4.  He paid $2.60 to win by 3-1/4 lengths. 

Cellular (Walter Case Jr.) finished second; Foxy Trottin Stick (Kevin Switzer Jr.) was third.

At first glance, one may assume that this would put Hall in a tough position as to which horse he may drive in the final.  However, Hall reminded us that, “since I own Knight Angel, I actually don’t have a choice at all.”

“All three horses raced great [on Sunday],” noted Hall.  “It should be a good race next weekend with eight solid horses in the final.  Like always, the draw will be huge.”

The swiftest race of the day went to Granny’s Girl who took a $6,000 division of the Holly Late Closer in 1:57.2.  Driven by Dan Deslandes for trainer Jeff Deslandes, she paid $8.40 to win.

The other Holly L-C was captured by Pretty Gorgeous in 1:58.2.  Driven by Kevin Switzer Jr. for trainer Benson Merrill, she paid $3.20 for the victory.

Aaron Hall and Dan Deslandes each picked up driving triples on the program.

Hunter Lofthus took the $4,400 seventh and final leg of the Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) race, which was his second win in a row with Martaritaondarocks. Using a big, three-wide move down the backside, the reinsman set the 4-year-old Pet Rock mare ablaze to score by 3-1/4 lengths in 1:59.3.  They paid $4.60 to win, which was the mare’s fourth victory in five starts.

Now entrenched firmly in second place, Lofthus will be among the favorites for the $6,000 winter MADC final slated for Sunday (Dec. 24).  As always, the MADC events are sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham.

Looking ahead, Cumberland’s third annual Au Revoir Retirement Ceremonies are scheduled for Saturday (Dec. 23).  Seventeen 14-year-old Standardbreds will parade in front of the stands and be recognized by the announcer and feted in the winners circle with gifts and prizes.  Those that are still racing are cordially invited to participate in our $6,000 Auld Lang Syne race for older pacers, where the foals of 2009 will be given preference and inside post positions.  Trainers are encouraged to check the upcoming condition sheet for more details.

The four $10,000 finals of the Winter Late Closing series will go postward on Sunday (Dec. 24), with as many $7,000 consolations as entries allow.

Racing resumes on Friday (Dec. 22) at Cumberland, the final Winter Festival weekend with year-end action on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  First post is 10:55 am each day.

Racing at Cumberland continues three days each week through Christmas Eve, 2023. 

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

December 17, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland (Joe Shaw photo)

CUMBERLAND, ME – Five-year-old pacer Art Of Endurance has been on a winning streak that started Thanksgiving weekend, and could very well continue through Christmas.  Picking up his fourth win in a row on Saturday (Dec. 16) at First Tracks Cumberland, the Benson Merrill-trainee is prospering in the colder climate of winter-time racing in Southern Maine. 

Driven by Kevin Switzer Jr. in all of his recent triumphs, the relatively young son of Artspeak won both of his legs of the Rudolph Series.  His 1:59 triumph in Sunday’s $6,000 second leg was the fastest division, and an effort where he came from off the pace and was uncovered going into the final turn to win by three lengths.

The week before he was sitting sixth back 7-1/4 lengths going down the backside the final time.  When Switzer Jr. unleashed him he uncorked a :29 final quarter to win by a length in a seasonal best 1:56.

“We always said that he had the ‘endurance’ but never the ‘art,’” quipped his leading conditioner Benson Merrill.  “But I think he has found it.  He is tricky to drive but we think Kevin has found the key.”

Owned by John and Thelma Kiernan and Thomas Bemont, he paid $2.60 to win the 14^th race of his career and push his lifetime bankroll to $76,536.

Merrill, Cumberland’s second leading trainer in dash wins with 27, is stabled on a farm in Augusta with 16 head.  He enters next week’s $10,000 Rudolph final with the likely favorite in Art Of Endurance.

The only other horse to win both of his Rudolph legs is Tim McMiki.  Driven by Bruce Ranger for trainer Randy Bickmore, the 5-year-old son of Always B Miki grabbed Sunday’s other division in 1:59.2.  Owned by Emery Pelletier, he paid $3.00 to win and also won for the 14^th time in his life.  His lifetime earnings now exceed $128,000.

The swiftest race of the day went to PBR Street Gang in rein to Aaron Hall in 1:57.4.  The $6,000 conditioned pace was the second win in three starts for the Sara Harrington-owned and trained son of JK Endofanera.  He paid $10.80 for the victory.

Hall, Ranger and Switzer Jr. each enjoyed driving doubles on the program.

There is a $259 Pentafecta High-5 carryover going into Sunday’s (Dec. 17) card, which also features divisions of

the $6,000 Holly Pace and $6,000 Jack Frost Trot late closers.  Race six on Sunday carries the $4,400 seventh and final leg of the Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) race, with a $6,000 winter final slated for Sunday (Dec. 24).  As always, the MADC events are sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham.

Looking ahead, Cumberland’s third annual Au Revoir Retirement Ceremonies are scheduled for Saturday (Dec. 23).  Seventeen 14-year-old Standardbreds will parade in front of the stands and be recognized by the announcer and feted in the winners circle with gifts and prizes.  Those that are still racing are cordially invited to participate in our $6,000 Auld Lang Syne race for older pacers, where the foals of 2009 will be given preference and inside post positions.  Trainers are encouraged to check the upcoming condition sheet for more details.

Racing resumes on Friday (Dec. 22) at Cumberland, the final weekend of our three-day Friday-Saturday-Sunday programs.  First post is 10:55 am each day.

Racing at Cumberland continues three days each week through Christmas Eve, 2023. 

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

December 16, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland (Joe Shaw photos)

CUMBERLAND, ME – Veteran pacer Lucan Hanover showed why he was the heavy favorite in his division of Friday’s (Dec. 15) Gingerbread Series, picking up his second consecutive victory at First Tracks Cumberland.

Owned, trained and driven by Aaron Hall, the 13-year-old millionaire by Western Ideal wired the field in grand fashion.  The winner of 69 races and $1.39 million lifetime held off the late charge of Buerger (Nick Graffam) to prevail by a measured half-length in 1:59.4, paying $2.20 to win.

Each of the five legs of the Gingerbread Series went for $5,500 this week, with a $10,000 final slated for Christmas Eve.  The series drew a total of 35 entrants for the second round, which will lead to a maximum of three $7,000 consolations should entries allow.

In fact, there was plenty of action and excitement in all the divisions with the opener resulting in a dead heat between Terror Hall (Wally Watson) and Sixby Hanover (Nick Graffam), who tripped the timer together in 1:58.1 under sunny skies.  However, that is where the similarities ended as Terror Hall paid $2.60 to win, but conversely Sixby Hanover returned $12.60.

The next division witnessed King Royalty (Dan Deslandes, 1:59.2) jump up and pay $40.00 to win.  Trained by Bob Marston, the 12-year-old son of Classic Card Shark is owned by Hallie Bennett and picked up his first win in his last eight outings.

Dakota ‘Action’ Jackson made an appearance at Cumberland on Friday, catch-driving Ohoka Johnny N to a wire-to-wire, 4-1/2 length rout in 1:58.3. Trained by Karl Butterfield for owner Jose Cerventes, they paid $6.60 to win the fourth Gingerbread div.

Punters that parlayed some action onto Bet On Joe in the ninth race final Gingerbread division reaped the rewards as the 8-year-old son of Bettor’s Delight gave his colleagues a front-end tour of the facility.  Winning in 1:59 by 3-1/2 lengths for driver Kevin Switzer Jr. he paid $5.60 to win for trainer Bob Marston.

The swiftest race of the day went to former Maine Sire Stakes star So Rock N’ Roll who scored in 1:57.2 for driver Kevin Switzer Jr. and trainer Benson Merrill. A former infantryman of the Tardif Taskforce, So Rock N’ Roll is a winner of $175,016 and eight races this season.  The 3-year-old son of Western Maverick was bred in Maine by Lesley Leighton, who has retained ownership of the quarter-million lifetime earner.

There is a $456 Pick-5 carryover going into Saturday’s (Dec. 16) card, which also features two $6,000 divisions of the Rudolph Late Closer Pace.  Those pacers will be competing for a spot in the $10,000 final, and all the Winter Late Closing series will appreciate $7,000 consolations, entries permitting.

On the Sunday (Dec. 17) program the $6,000 Holly Pace and $6,000 Jack Frost Trot late closers also enjoy two and three divisions respectively.  This is also the second leg of these series, and each have a $10,000 final on Dec. 24. 

Race six on Sunday carries the $4,400 seventh leg of the Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) race, with a $6,000 Winter final slated for Sunday (Dec. 24).  As always, the MADC events are sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham.

Looking ahead, Cumberland’s third annual Au Revoir Retirement Ceremonies are scheduled for Saturday (Dec. 23).  Seventeen 14-year-old Standardbreds will parade in front of the stands and be recognized by the announcer and feted in the winners circle with gifts and prizes.  Those that are still racing are cordially invited to participate in our $6,000 Auld Lang Syne race for older pacers, where the foals of 2009 will be given preference and inside post positions.  Trainers are encouraged to check the upcoming condition sheet for more details.

Racing continues on Saturday (Dec. 16) at Cumberland, the second leg of our three-day Friday-Saturday-Sunday programs.  First post is 10:55 am each day.

Racing at Cumberland continues three days each week through Christmas Eve, 2023. 

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

December 15, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland (Joe Shaw photo)

CUMBERLAND, ME – The Winter Late Closing Series at First Tracks Cumberland highlights the long weekend of racing at the iconic Southern Maine oval, with five divisions of the Gingerbread Series kicking off the activities on Friday (Dec. 15).

Each leg goes for $5,500 this week, with a $10,000 final on Christmas Eve.  The series drew a total of 35 entrants for the second round, with the quintet of races sprinkled throughout the card.

Millionaire Lucan Hanover is the 6-5 favorite in the second division, scoring from post four in race three.  The 13-year-old veteran by Western Ideal scooted home to win in 1:58 last week, opening up by 4-3/4 lengths.  Owned, trained and driven by Aaron Hall, the winner of 68 races and $1.39 million lifetime surely demonstrates that age is just a number.

Race secretary Rob Pennington, and his assistant Andrew Topham, also added the Frosty pop-up series to last week’s condition sheet, resulting in three $5,000 divisions TrackMaster 60 pacers.

Eleven races go postward on Friday (Dec. 15) with 10:55 am slated as the first post.

Saturday’s (Dec. 16) card features two $6,000 divisions of the Rudolph Late Closer Pace, with those pacers looking for a spot in the $10,000 final.  All series will also enjoy $7,000 consolations, entries permitting.

On the Sunday (Dec. 17) program the $6,000 Holly Pace and $6,000 Jack Frost Trot late closers also enjoy two and three divisions respectively.  This is also the second leg of these series, and each have a $10,000 final on Dec. 24. 

Race six on Sunday carries the $4,400 seventh leg of the Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) race, with a $6,000 Winter final slated for Sunday (Dec. 24).  As always, the MADC events are sponsored by the Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham.

Looking ahead, Cumberland’s third annual Au Revoir Retirement Ceremonies are scheduled for Saturday (Dec. 23).  Seventeen 14-year-old Standardbreds will parade in front of the stands and be recognized by the announcer and feted in the winners circle with gifts and prizes.  Those that are still racing are cordially invited to participate in our $6,000 Auld Lang Syne race for older pacers, where the foals of 2009 will be given preference and inside post positions.  Trainers are encouraged to check the upcoming condition sheet for more details.

The Winter Festival continues at First Tracks Cumberland with our ‘December to Remember’ three-day weekends of racing.  The entire holiday month enjoys a three-peat of Friday-Saturday-Sunday programs.  A total of 31 races will be offered over the upcoming Dec. 15 – 17 span.  First post is a now 10:55 am each day.

Racing at Cumberland continues three days each week through Christmas Eve, 2023. 

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland

December 11, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland (Joe Shaw photos)

CUMBERLAND, ME – A foggy winter morning made it impossible for fans and racing officials to see the backstretch, however, that didn’t slow down amateur reinsman Hunter Lofthus from getting his first pari-mutuel victory aboard Martaritaondarocks on Sunday (Dec. 10) at First Tracks Cumberland.

With the entire card’s results charts listing FOG at the quarter and three-quarter placements, the entire day was a challenge for the judges, announcer, television crew, race charter as well as invested and casual observers.  Nonetheless, all ten of the day’s races went off without a hitch, despite the lack of a clear field of vision.

When the wings folded and the field disappeared into the mist through the first turn, Lofthus had allowed all the early speed to leave and get position while he was content to sit back and let the race develop.  The opening panel was in :29.2, with no official running order published.

At the half Alex Richardson had Four Finger Floyd on the point and controlling the tempo, with Road Untraveled and Benson Merrill sitting in the two-hole.  Favored Patanjali N (Todd Whitney) was tracking closely in third with Hunter Lofthus and Martaritaondarocks moving first over from fifth position into the 1:00.3 half-mile marker.

According to Lofthus, he was able to flush the cover of Todd Whitney past the half.  It would have been anyone’s guess what happened next, so the winning driver provided his own account of the action as the race unfolded.

“I moved three-wide at the three-quarter pole, ahead of Todd Whitney” noted Lofthus.  “Coming around the last turn I was still three-wide and passed Benson Merrill and Alex Richardson.”

Track announcer Mike Cushing, who made lemonade out of lemons by filling in the gaps of invisibility stated, “emerging from the fog, it is Martaritaondarocks and Hunter Lofthus grabbing his first lifetime win!”

Lofthus recounts, “We cleared by the head of the stretch.  I never had to touch her.  I just spoke to her and she went faster and drew off until we won by five.”

Funny thing about fog is that it is a great equalizer…no one can see.  The horsemen on the backstretch were also hampered by the lack of visibility, so when Cushing announced that Hunter Lofthus had won, he heard “everyone in the paddock going crazy.”

Lofthus recalls the good-natured ribbing of his colleagues, “everyone was teasing me and giving directions to winners circle and asking if I cut through the infield to win.”

When Lofthus entered the winners circle, his girlfriend Emily Burgess was there to greet him.  In addition, several of the top drivers came to show their support, including Kevin Switzer Jr., Nick Graffam and Aaron Hall. 

Brandy MacKenzie the caretaker and wife of trainer Cain MacKenzie held the mare’s head following the mare’s third win in four starts.

“We are so thrilled for Hunter.  To be part of his first ever win has brought us so much joy and happiness, and we are so proud of him.  He has worked hard and improved a little with every race.  I can’t wait to keep watching him and see where he goes in the future,” said MacKenzie.

But this mare also holds a special place in Brandy MacKenzie’s heart.  “She has come into our barn and stole my heart and has proven her spot and that she belongs there.  She is a beast on the track and loves to win.  I think she is the best horse ever, but I might be a little biased.  She is the only female in the barn, and I am the only female at home, so us girls have to stick together!”

Aimee Nichols of Blue Seal Feeds was also on hand to provide the swag bucket trophy that has become synonymous with winning a Maine Amateur event.

One of the best sideshows in harness racing, these amateur events are wildly popular, well supported by the bettors, and are taking place weekly across multiple jurisdictions throughout the northeast and Midwest.  The Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC ) is no exception, as this $4,400 leg enjoyed its sixth week of winter-time competition. 

MADC events are proudly sponsored by Blue Seal Feed Stores of North Yarmouth and Windham, Maine.

For Lofthus, it was his first victory in 22 attempts since 2022, with 17 starts this year.  The 35-year-old was born in Seattle, Washington, but now makes Monmouth, Maine his home and is a professional electrical lineman and tree expert.

Sunday’s card also included several legs of the Holly and Jack Frost late closing series, with purses increasing for next week’s divisions, and $10,000 finals slated for Dec. 24.

The two $5,000 Holly LC Pace legs were captured by Humor Me (1:58.4, $4.00, Aaron Hall) and (Whatchagonnadoboo (2:00.3, $3.80, Kevin Switzer Jr.).

Three $5,000 Jack Frost LC Trots went to: Knight Angel (2:01.2, $2.80, Aaron Hall); Inquiring Mind (2:02.1, $5.60, Steve Wilson); and Namesmuscle (2:02.3, $5.60, Aaron Hall).

Aaron Hall had three wins on the program, with Walter Case Jr. getting a driving double.

Racing resumes Friday (Dec. 15) as the Winter Festival continues at First Tracks Cumberland with our ‘December to Remember’ three-day weekends of racing.  The remainder of the holiday month enjoys a three-peat of Friday-Saturday-Sunday programs.  First post is 10:55 am each day, and runs through Christmas Eve, 2023. 

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

December 10, 2023 – by Chris Tully, for First Tracks Cumberland (JOE SHAW PHOTOS)

CUMBERLAND, ME – Alex Having Fun enjoyed storming down the stretch to catch his colleagues at the wire to capture Saturday’s (Dec. 9) $6,500 featured winners over handicap pace in a swift 1:56 at First Tracks Cumberland.

Driven by Aaron Hall, the 6-year-old son of Rock N Roll Heaven was saddled with post position seven but managed to get away fourth in the early going.  High-energy wagering favorite The Bird Dance N (Dan Deslandes) scooted away from the car like an upbeat Tango performer, setting a blistering :27.4 opening panel.

As the field settle down and the gaps began to close, Hall moved Alex Having Fun first over into a ‘breath-catching’ :58.2 half.   The challenger continued to bear down on the leader through an up-tempo 1:26.3 third stanza, with the pair heads apart as they rounded the final turn for home.

Hall let out a notch and let Alex Having Fun have his head as the pair paced swiftly down to the wire, winning by 2-1/4 lengths.  Owned and trained by Kimberly Vafiades, it was the sixth victory of the year for the top pacer.  His seasonal earnings now exceed $88,000, and he paid $5.60 to win.

The Bird Dance N finished second; Ranaldi (Kevin Switzer Jr.) was third.

The program also included three $5,000 divisions of the Rudolph Late Closing Pacing Series.  The first division was captured by Art Of Endurance, who scored in a season’s best 1:56.  Driven by Kevin Switzer Jr. for trainer Benson Merrill and owners John and Thelma Kiernan and Tom Bemont, the 5-year-old son of Artspeak picked up his third win in a row at Cumberland.  He paid $16.80 for the triumph.

The remaining Rudolph divisions were captured by Tim McMiki (1:59.3; $3.00) for driver Bruce Ranger and trainer Randy Bickmore; and Nagle (1:58.1, $14.20) with Dan Deslandes driving for Jeff Deslandes.

The next round of Rudolphs will compete for $6,000 purses next week, with the $10,000 final slated for Dec. 24.

Bruce Ranger had three wins on the program, with Dan Deslandes and Aaron Hall getting driving doubles.

Trainer Benson Merrill harnessed two winners.

Racing continues Sunday (Dec. 10) at Cumberland with a $554.86 carryover in the Pick-5, which starts in race three.

The Winter Festival continues at First Tracks Cumberland with our ‘December to Remember’ three-day weekends of racing.  The entire holiday month enjoys a three-peat of Friday-Saturday-Sunday programs.  First post is a now few minutes earlier, slated for 10:55 am each day.

Racing at Cumberland continues three days each week through Christmas Eve, 2023. 

For more information go to our website: https://firsttrackscumberland.com/

Follow us on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.