Northfield: Greg Grismore scores 8,000th career victory

Northfield Park regular Greg Grismore continued to climb the win ranks on Tuesday (April 22) earning his 8,000th career driving win aboard Disgruntled Carl in the nightcap at MGM Northfield Park.

Grismore, who grew up in Pandora, Ohio, starting in the business as a young teenager working with his father Mark. He has driven at many racetracks throughout his illustrious career including stints on the East Coast.

Grismore won his first race in 1987 and to date 2007 was his winningest season with just over $5 million in earnings from horses he drove.

On Tuesday, Grismore left alertly with favorite Disgruntled Carl but had to duel with Bars Open (David Lake) through much of the initial turn. Grismore and his charge finally cleared the lead through a 28 1/5 opening quarter. At the half in 58 3/5, Sierras Spirit (Tyler Angus) began a first-over attack on Disgruntled Carl, with Bazillionaire (Aaron Merriman) riding second-over cover into the clubhouse turn for the final time. Angus and Sierras Spirit continued to apply pressure to Disgruntled Carl, but at three-quarters in 1:27 4/5, Grismore stepped on the gas and Disgruntled Carl took off around the final turn.

Through the stretch, Sierras Spirit and Bazillionaire both took a shot at Disgruntled Carl, but he proved to be too good, winning by 1-1/4 lengths in 1:58 1/5.

Grismore’s biggest victories include wins in the Cleveland Classic (Won The West, 2007) and the Jugette (Good News Lady, 2008).

-edited release (Northfield)