Napolitano Jr. Nabs Win No. 10,000

George Napolitano Jr. became the 18th North American driver to tally 10,000 driving victories when he guided Motown N to a hard-earned victory in the evening’s ninth race at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono on Saturday, Oct. 12.

Motown N tucked third early, then used one of Napolitano’s signature moves: a brush off the first turn to make his way to the lead, but not until being parked the entire second quarter. Once on top, Motown N and Napolitano were in control, with George Napolitano Jr. rocking the horse home to a two-length victory over Redbank Blaze A–driven by George’s brother Anthony.

Motown N did not recognize the milestone achieved by his driver, as he was under full steam right back to the paddock after the mile. But George was brought to the winner's circle after “dropping off” the horse to join family, friends and Pocono management to celebrate the major achievement.

George Napolitano Jr. currently ranks 11th among active North American drivers in victories and is well on his way to taking his 13th seasonal crown at The Downs as well as his eighth straight. George also has ten UDR titles at Pocono and was the winningest trainer here in five seasons.

The win behind Motown N was his 4,982nd victory at Pocono since his first victory success in 2000. George won the North American dashwinning title in 2010 and this year currently sits third in the standings.

George’s brother Anthony guided Luis Alberto N to a 1:50.1 victory in the $17,500 featured pace on the card. Anythingforlove A laid down hot fractions of :25.4, :53.2 and 1:21 and still held well in the stretch. But despite a speed-favouring track those giant fractions did take a toll and Luis Alberto N came on steadily the last three-eighths to post a one-and-a-quarter lengths win over the game pacesetter while posting a North American mile mark.

Jose Godinez trains the Kiwi import for the ownership of Blindswitch Racing Stable and Dolne Farm Services LLC.

(PHHA/Pocono)