LOS ALAMITOS : Refrigerator Breaks Record for Quarter Horse Earnings

Refrigerator became the richest quarter horse in history on Saturday night, winning the $250,000 Champion of Champions for the second consecutive year.

Refrigerator, the 1-5 favorite, won by a head over Down With Debt, running 400 yards in 21.59 seconds. He became the second horse to win the race twice, the other being 1976-77 winner Dash For Cash.

Refrigerator increased his earning to $1,948,257. Eastex had held the record of $1,869,406.

Refrigerator provided trainer Blane Schvaneveldt with a record seventh victory in the 22-year history of the Champion of Champions. The 5-year-old gelding is owned by Jim Helzer of Arlington, Tex., and was ridden by Bruce Pilkenton.