Harness: Homicide Hunter moves into the Ron Burke barn

The fastest trotter in North American history is on the move. Homicide Hunter, trained by Chris Oakes since 2016 for Crawford Farms Racing, now appears to be under the care of Ron Burke going forward.

While rumors have been swirling about the change since last week, confirmation was received when Homicide Hunter was entered in a qualifier (Race 8, Post 7) at The Meadowlands on Saturday with Burke listed as trainer.

Under Oakes, Homicide Hunter trotted in 1:48 4/5 at the Red Mile in 2018 to become the fastest in history. The now 7-year-old also won the Breeders Crown and Dan Patch honors as the best Older Male Trotter during that campaign.

For his career, Homicide Hunter has won 39 of 78 career races and over $1.7 million. His only appearance thus far in 2019 was a qualifier with Oakes as the trainer on April 24 at Pompano Park and he won in 1:55 1/5.

Others showing up for morning qualifying action at The Meadowlands this week are: 2015 Dan Patch winner JL Cruze; 2017 Dan Patch winner Manchego; 2018 Dan Patch winners Six Pack, Captain Crunch and Gimpanzee; 2018 Peter Haughton winner Don’t Let’em; 2018 Peaceful Way & Jim Doherty winner The Ice Dutchess; 2018 William Wellwood winner Green Manalishi S; Kentucky Sire Stakes winner Hurrikane Emperor; among others.