Full Steam Ahead!
(By Mike Bozich, Hazel Park Raceway)
One week ago under adverse conditions, three year old Hambo hopeful Chocolatier made a break in a qualifier at Hazel Park Raceway. One week later, the trotting son of Credit Winner reminded us all why he is a major player in the three year old trotting division.

Under gray skies ten miles north of Detroit, Michigan, the Ackerman charge set his sites to qualifying again. This time, there was no rain, no Murphy blind, and no competition. Chocolatier went right to the front to trot the opening quarter in :30.2. He reached the half in 59.4 and three quarters in 129.1. The final time was 159.1. He won his prep by 23 impressive lengths. He went the middle half in an effortless 58.4, and the final half in an un-urged 59.2.

Chocolatier has finally conquered the track in which he has made two lifetime breaks. Now, he looks to conquer the three year old trotting division.

In Friday’s first qualifying race, Chocolatier had his rhythm as he effortlessly floated to three quarters on the lead in 1:32.3 until it happened. Chocolatier jumped off stride, meaning another qualifier is imminent.

Now for the good news...Chocolatier came out of the qualifying event in good health, and will return to Hazel Park Raceway next week, hopefully in better weather conditions. “We tried a Murphy Blind on him for the first time,” said D.R. Ackerman, driver of Chocolatier.

Chocolatier won the Breeders Crown for 2 year old trotters last year and is sired by Credit Winner. He is considered one of the early favorites to win the Hambletonian for 3-year-old trotters. Chocolatier is trained by hall of famer Doug Ackerman, who year in and year out produces some of the countries best young pacers and trotters, and is stabled at Hazel Park Raceway.

Coincidentally, that's Chocolatiers next stop, Friday, May 26 at 11:00 a.m.