Northfield: Merriman wins nine races on Wednesday

Wednesdays have been popular for the nation's leading dash driver Aaron Merriman, and December 13 was no different as the 45-year-old put up nine victories on the 15-race program for the second week in a row at MGM Northfield Park.

Merriman, who surpassed Herve Filion for third in all-time wins, has been the nation's leading driver for eight straight seasons and is working on a ninth with 813 victories this year.

Merriman started the program with Christopher Beaver trainee Accelerate (Walner-All The Time), winning in gate-to-wire fashion. Merriman and Beaver have teamed up to have a lot of success throughout the Buckeye State and have formed quite a bond.

Merriman wasn't done yet, winning the next three races with Base Stealer ($3.20), Over And Back ($7.40) and Stabler ($2.10).

One of the more impressive victories on Wednesday was aboard David Russo trainee Tullow N ($5.20). The favorite was parked the mile from post seven and was forced three deep around the final turn, but Merriman was patient, nailing Lawrence N (Luke Ebersole) right on the wire.

Merriman would return two races later, scoring with heavy favorite Ranger Bomb N ($3.80) for trainer Bill Rhoades. The driver would conclude the card just like he started, reeling off three-straight victories with Lovin On The Beach ($4.40), Passionate Promise ($9.60) and Timeout Fitz ($3.00).

Live racing resumes on Saturday (December 11) evening at 6:00 p.m. and will feature Santa Sack Fan Appreciation night, MGM Northfield Park's biggest giveaway for on-track patrons. MGM Northfield Park currently races on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. For more information on live racing and promotions, visit www.northfieldpark.com.

-edited release (MGM Northfield)