by Bob Heyden

Bob Krivelin wants to help. One of the top amateur drivers in the world and a long-time owner, he owns Woolco Foods Inc. in Jersey City, NJ that currently has $1.5 million in inventory that Krivelin wants to get to the horsemen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s up to those of us who CAN help to do so for those in the industry that need it. I’m in this business, but I have other resources… I can help. I traditionally have 15 trucks a day going to restaurants in New York City delivering food and product. Now I do four trucks a day to those dealing in takeout and deliveries. I have my warehouse in Jersey City, which is15 minutes from the Meadowlands. I have been online since Friday (April 3) and can deliver the next day. Amazon takes three days. I want to do this. I do NOT want to make any money on this. I’ll sell at cost,” Krivelin said.

Everyone has been taking the hit the last several weeks, including Krivelin.

“I’m off 70 per cent. I have 65 employees and had to let half of them go. But I’ll be okay. It’s not myself I’m concerned with, it’s these workers, and all the people in racing that are hurting. I have everything in stock — paper products, produce, toilet paper, you name it… and I want to get it out to people. They are going to need supplies no matter what happens going forward.”

For those who think they know the name Krivelin, you probably do. He had the talented filly Rapid Rail, who was runner-up in the $500,000 Hambletonian Oaks in 2002 with Krivelin driving. Rapid Rail was beaten by a length by Southwind Allaire at 6-1. Krivelin was once third in the Merrie Annabelle final, and was fifth with 119-1 shot Heathen Hall in the 2000 Hambletonian elims. (Only top three made the final). He knows his way around the track, has beaten the professionals as well as the amateurs, and was great friends with the late Hall Of Famer Jim Doherty.

“Dave Duspiva looks after my horses, about 12 right now, on my farm. It’s about 60 acres,” Krivelin said.

“I think about those who were prepping to race at Monticello and Tioga and places like that right now, and feel the need to help. It’s time. ”

Krivelin said he is working on a website and hopes it will be operational sometime this week. For now, to place an order, call his cell — (917) 583-7466. Deliveries are beginning today (April 5).