After winning by 3-3/4 lengths in his return to Calgary last week, Icy Blue Scooter ($4.20) looked every bit the part of the even-money favourite in an encore score in Sunday's (Nov. 18) $9,000 Open Handicap Pace at Century Downs.
Trainer-driver Nathan Sobey angled the five-year-old Blue Burner gelding off the pegs nearing a :57.4 half from 8-1 pacesetter Southwind Jaden (Mike Hennessy). Upon first asking, Icy Blue Scooter accelerated up the backstretch to engage Southwind Jaden and duel into a narrow lead past three-quarters in 1:26.4. Turning for home, Icy Blue Scooter was able to wear down the longtime pacesetter, but Appellate (Brandon Campbell) loomed off second-over cover to give chase. Icy Blue Scooter held his ground to prevail by three-quarters of a length over Appellate in 1:56, while Tolly Ho (Jamie Gray) escaped the pocket to save third.
Sobey shares ownership of Icy Blue Scooter, now an 11-time winner, with Diane Bertrand and Robert Gilhespy.
To view Sunday's harness racing results, click the following link: Sunday Results – Century Downs.