American commentators found his nickname amusing and were full of praise for Chris “The Puppet” Alford’s feats on the track at the annual Little Brown Jug meet this morning.
The champion reinsman piloted Beach Memories (Somebeachsomewhere-Allamerican Memoir) for trainer Virgil Morgan Jr from gate seven in the final race of Jug day after finishing third 24 hours prior aboard St Lads Maggie Mae at the annual Delaware County Fair carnival.
Pre-race the commentators mentioned how Alford was known as “the Puppet” back home Down Under and acknowledged the champion driver’s achievements.
A large crowd was on track at the Jug, some suggesting about 40,000, while many more tuned into websites for a live stream of the action.
Alford has a strong relationship with many of the US reinsmen, forged off the back of Harness Racing Victoria’s successful International All Star Series earlier this year.
In the last race on Jug day Alford went forward aboard Beach Memories but was not able to find the lead. He eventually jumped on to the pylons, to use an American term, and landed in the pocket before finishing fifth. The winner of the race went 1:53 (splits 26.3/55.2/1:24/1:53).
Betting Line won this year’s Little Brown Jug in a super-slick 1:49 mile rate.
Follow @ChrisAlford5000 on Twitter for updates.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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