Ron Burke, the renowned Hall of Fame trainer, is gearing up for a thrilling showdown at Plainridge Park on July 19th with his star trotters. Burke's stable boasts two formidable contenders for the $300,000 Spirit of Massachusetts Trot: Antognoni S and Lexus Kody. These horses are not just any ordinary trotters; they're the cream of the crop, having dominated the tracks in 2025 and 2026. Burke's confidence in his stable is palpable, and his insights into these horses' capabilities are truly enlightening.
Antognoni S, a newcomer to Burke's stable in 2024, has been nothing short of extraordinary. His development has been remarkable, with an impressive turn of foot that has left Burke in awe. The horse's success story is evident in his statistics: 16 wins in 24 starts last year, with three seconds and three thirds, and a staggering $481,537 in purses. This year, he's continued his winning streak, remaining unbeaten with five consecutive wins and an eight-race win streak dating back to last year. Burke's admiration for Antognoni S is clear, as he believes he's the best trotter in the country, surpassing even the highly regarded On To Norway.
Lexus Kody, the Dan Patch 2025 Trotter of the Year, had an exceptional season in 2025. His numbers speak for themselves: 11 wins in 21 starts, with three seconds, four thirds, and over $1.3 million in earnings. Kody's 1:49.1 lifetime mark at Woodbine Mohawk Park is a testament to his speed, making him the first trotter in Canadian history to break the 1:50 barrier. Burke's training methods have been instrumental in Kody's success, as he finally learned to harness his ability and put himself in better positions on the track.
Burke's stable also includes two talented 4-year-old mares, Rodeo Drive Deo and Champagne Room, who will compete in the $150,000 G3 Clara Barton Distaff Pace. Rodeo Drive Deo, a seven-time winner at three, including the Jugette, has faced some challenges this year due to a cyst in her throat, but she's ready to make a comeback. Champagne Room, a three-time winner in the Kentucky Sire Stakes, has had her ups and downs, but Burke is confident she's on the path to recovery.
The Spirit of Massachusetts Trot and the Clara Barton Distaff Pace are set to be thrilling races, with Burke's stable leading the charge. His horses' performances this year have been nothing short of extraordinary, and his training expertise is evident in their success. As the races approach, the excitement builds, and the racing world eagerly awaits the outcome of these prestigious events.
