North America Cup eligible Noahs Mill made his first trip to the winner's circle on Friday night (March 9) at Woodbine Racetrack despite being collared late in the fifth race.
Noahs Mill was collared by the pylon-skimming Bettor BB in deep stretch, but inherited his first career victory when the favoured first-place finisher was relegated to third for causing interference at the mid-mile mark in the $14,000 pace for non-winners of one race or $9,000 lifetime.
Noahs Mill got away fourth through a :28.2 first quarter before sweeping to the lead past the top pair that prompted the judges' inquiry. Bettor BB got the jump on Noahs Mill from the pocket down the backstretch and he was urged by early leader Stormy Cash, but had caused interference while doing so. Noahs Mill charged by as they reached the half in :57.4 and proceeded to three-quarters in 1:27.2 with Redwood Again in pursuit on the outside. Bettor BB managed to find room to shoot through inside as the wire approached and reached the finish line in 1:57, with Noahs Mill a neck back and Stormy Cash regaining third one and a half lengths behind. However, the mid-mile mishap cost him the victory and Noahs Mill was deemed the official winner.
James MacDonald drove the Camluck-Tarport Baccarat gelding for trainer Isaac Waxman and owner Brenda Selwyn Waxman of Dundas, Ont. A $36,000 yearling purchase at the Forest City Sale from breeder Seelster Farms, Noahs Mill has competed in seven races (four this year) with a pair of runner-up finishes and a third-place effort among his top results.
He paid $7 to win as the 5-2 second choice on the betting board among 10 starters.
Seventy-nine three-year-old pacers have been nominated to the 35th edition of the Pepsi North America Cup. The first sustaining payment is due Thursday, March 15 and the final two payments are due April 15 and May 15.
To view Friday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Friday Results - Woodbine Racetrack.