Hot Joe (Roll With Joe) completed a series sweep of the Charlie Hoffman Pace on Saturday night (Dec 7) at Saratoga Casino Hotel. The six-year-old gelding came from off the pace to prevail for the third consecutive week. Joe Nassimos trains the Vernon Downs-based pacer. Leon Bailey was in the sulky for owner JC’s Get R Done Stable of Buffalo NY. Yamaka (Aaron Byron) took second place, and Quagmire Bluechip (Chris Long) earned the show spot.
The Charlie Hoffman Pacing Series began eight years ago recognizing the longtime employee of the track who worked in the mutuel department for more than six decades! Hoffman, at the age of 101, was in attendance on Saturday night for a presentation in the winner’s circle to the victor of the series named in his honor. Hoffman is the longest ever employee of the track and was joined by friends and former co-workers to greet Hot Joe and his connections with his well-known smile and quick wit. Charlie Hoffman, truly a Saratoga treasure.
Live racing continues on today at Saratoga with a matinee that begins at 12pm. There is a $24,847 carryover for the Jackpot Super High Five.
Mike Sardella | Saratoga Casino Hotel | Saratoga Springs, NY
Jessica Hallett Photo
