It’s Academic looks to defend crown in $100,000 Tom Aldrich President’s Trot at MGM Northfield Park

The $2.4 million earner It’s Academic returns to his Ohio roots on Saturday (Aug. 10) and looks to defend his title in the $100,000 Tom Aldrich President’s Trot at MGM Northfield Park.

It’s Academic, installed as the 3-5 morning line favorite by Director of Racing Dave Bianconi, has been lightly raced this season.

The Dan Patch Award-winning older male in 2023, It’s Academic kicked off his season in the $131,250 Crawford Farms trot at The Meadowlands, after qualifying several times in preparation for the races. He rallied from well off the pace to finish a game fourth in that effort.

He then shipped to Plainridge Park, where he put together an impressive performance, winning easily in 1:51.2 in the $250,000 Spirit of Massachuetts. He then shipped back to the Meadowlands to race in the $282,000 John Cashman Memorial, where he set stiff fractions before tiring and finishing eighth.

“He got a tough trip last week, I expect him to be better in the Aldrich,” said trainer Ron Burke.

Owned by Bradley Grant, he has 31 victories, with $2,444,333 in career earnings, more than anyone he will face on Saturday.

He will battle some talented foes including Rose Run Yolanda, Herecomescharlie B, Caviar Gold, Shine All The Way, Refined, Black Magic, Don’t Take My Keys, and Guido Di.