The 2-year-old pacing colts took center stage and comprised seven of the evening’s 15 races. Morrill piloted five winners on the card, including one of the most dynamic victories a freshman pacer has ever registered at the Spa.
He’s Watching (American Ideal-Baberhood) was the odds-on favorite in his $46,631 stakes division when he made a break in the first turn. After the miscue, the freshman spotted the field better than 15 lengths. Concluding an amazing second half rally, He’s Watching circled the field before stopping the timer in 1:55, the fastest of the night for any of the freshman pacers.
Morrill also reined NYSS winners New York Bets (Bettor's Delight-Absolutely Cam) and Forty Five Red (If I Can Dream-Sakura Hanover), Excelsior division winner Big Boy Dreams (If I Can Dream-Stefani Blue Chip), as well as young trotter Boca Boca (Kadabra-Limitless Sky).
Western Conquest (American Ideal-Aries Conquest) was the evening’s other winner of a $46,631 NYSS race while Excelsior Series winners included Cuzdansaidyeahok (Riverboat King-Grand Union) and Stirling Cadillac (Bettor's Delight-Village Jato).
Live racing continues on Saturday night at Saratoga with action starting at 6:45 p.m.