Chickster wires for 11th win of year

Chickster jumped out to the lead in Friday's fourth race at Turf Paradise and coasted home a 3 1/2-length victor, giving the 7-year-old gelding 11 victories for the 2008 season, which may bring him honors as the nation's winningest Thoroughbred of the year.

Sent off the 3-5 favorite in the six-furlong event for $4,000 claimers, Chickster cruised home in 1:08.67, beating Preachintothechoir, with Walter third in the field of seven. From the barn of leading trainer Justin Evans, Chickster notched his 20th win in 44 career starts. He paid $3.20.

"He's the leader right now," said Evans. "I may race him one more time after Christmas, depending on what those chasing him do. He's special. I mean, it's not often you get a horse that will win 9 of 10 races for you."

Through Dec. 12 there are five horses with nine wins this year: Polo Bender, Henry Street, Biblical Scholar, Antrim County, and Super Danny.