Meadowlands: Ariana G establishes world record, beats male foes in Graduate Trot final

Following two lackluster performances, Ariana G brought her "A" game to the Meadowlands on Saturday night, and in the process captured the $250,000 Graduate Trot final against nine male rivals in a world record-setting 1:50 2/5 clocking.

Yannick Gingras wasted no time from the start, putting the 4-year-old daughter of Muscle Hill in play early, sprinting from post eight to the lead in a 27 3/5 opening quarter and unseating Moonshiner Hanover from that spot.

International Moni left but was looped by the winner on the first turn, and then went up for Scott Zeron to challenge the winner. The two sped to the half in 55 2/5, but by three-quarters in 1:23 2/5, Ariana G had gained separation from that rival and was breaking contact with the pocket-sitting Moonshiner Hanover.

The homestretch proved a one-mare race as the Jimmy Takter trainee drew off in a 27 second final quarter to set the world mark while also eclipsing her career mark.

Sent off as the 3-2 favorite, Ariana G returned $5.00 to win, finishing ahead of Moonshiner Hanover, with longshot Sortie finishing third.

Marvin Katz and Al Libfeld bred and own Ariana G, who with the victory went over the $2 million mark in career earnings.

Driver Gingras was asked about his decision to park International Moni.

"My filly felt so strong," Gingras said, "Honestly I wasn't going to let him by."

Trainer Takter was equally impressed.

"She was awesome tonight," said Takter.