Tracys Song wins record 16th in a row at Monticello Raceway

Trainer Bob Lounsbury was atypically reserved in describing his horse's chances of setting Monticello Raceway's consecutive wins record on Monday. As it turned out, there was no need to worry.

Tracys Song, an 8-year-old pacing mare, will stand alone in Raceway history after winning her 16th straight. Tracys Song, driven by Bruce Aldrich Jr., clocked 1:57.3 to break Northern Chief's record set in 2010.

“I was a little doubtful today because there was one in (the race) that could be trouble,'' Lounsbury said. “Allikait Fighter was parked to the half last week and won handily in 1:57.3. And I was a little concerned about her being inside of us (in the two hole), too.”

When the wings of the mobile starting gate folded, there was a mad rush for the lead between Eagle Hilarious, driven by Greg Merton from post four, and Tracys Song, who left from the five hole.

“I saw what was in the makings and I didn't like it, so I really hustled Tracy toward the front and we cleared Greg and took the lead on the first turn,” Aldrich said. “We were getting out of there at a pretty good clip, so I tried to put (on the) breaks, but we still got by the quarter in 28 (seconds) and a piece.”

Merton kept Eagle Hilarious on Aldrich's back. They were one-two past the half in 58.4. Jimmy Taggart Jr. moved Allikait Fighter to the outside and made a short-lived challenge as Tracys Song sped away from both Allikait Fighter and Eagle Hilarious.

On the final turn, Tracys Song opened up her patented three-length lead and with a 29-second final quarter finished two lengths ahead of Allikait Fighter.

“This is some kind of race mare,'' Aldrich said. “I've been around a long time and can't remember a horse ever winning 15 times in a row, much less 16 times. Wow! Think of it, she hasn't lost a race in four months.”

Aldrich was again joined in the winner's circle by Lounsbury and owner Nancy Fugere of Westbrookville, who brought tears of joy. She claimed Tracys Song for $4,000 on Lounsbury's advice in early January.

“Oh my God,” Fugere said. “I can't believe it. I'm completely speechless.''

Tracys Song paid $2.70 and $2.10. There was no show wagering.

Aldrich, meantime, had another huge day at the Mighty M, winning five races on the card. He is sixth in North America with 214 wins this season.