‘Van Dam’ Vaults To Northside Win
Positioned last at the quarter, 14-year-old Artsplace gelding Dreamfair Van Dam rushed three wide into the final turn and drew clear to a two-and-a-half length victory in the $1,400 Winners-Over Pace on Saturday, July 6 at Northside Downs.
Brother John led the field past a :29.1 opening quarter as favourite Elm Grove Ladyluck parked to try and take the lead before backing into fourth around the second turn. Wildcat Jet, positioned first over, began a slow advance towards the pacesetter passing a :59.1 half with Dreamfair Van Dam sitting third over into the backstretch. Driver John Kennedy then angled Dreamfair Van Dam wide approaching three-quarters, timed in 1:29.4, and swooped to the lead in progress to a 2:00.2 win. Wildcat Jet held second while Brother John was placed third via disqualification of Elm Grove Ladyluck, who caused interference past the quarter.
Leased by trainer Heather Hawkins from owner Natasha Campbell, Dreamfair Van Dam won his third race from eight starts and his 44th from 197 overall, earning $120,213. He paid $12.20 to win.
To view Saturday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Saturday Results - Northside Downs.