Suffice it to say youth is being served at the current Cal-Expo meet. Despite having less than two years of pari-mutuel experience, Albertan Jacob Cutting amassed a commanding lead in the driver standings at the Sacramento, Calif., track — his 38 wins to date tower over current runner-up Nick Roland's 22.

Cutting, at only 19, was aboard six winners this past Sunday (Jan. 3). His most impressive driving wins were in the seventh race with favourite River Lassena, and in the Open Pace with Allmyxsliventexas.

“River Lassena is a really green horse,” said Cutting. “She’s got a lot of learning to do yet.” The filly sat midfield throughout and then was shuffled near the back as they turned for home. Angled widest of all for the stretch drive, River Lassena kicked in with one final push near the wire to win the six-across finish in exciting fashion.

“She definitely wants to do it,” continued Cutting. “I think she’ll eventually mature into a nice race horse.”

And how about that top-class victory?

“Allmyxsliventexas was quite the ride!” exclaimed Cutting. “He’s just pure class honestly and a real pleasure to drive. It’s nice getting the opportunity to drive a class horse like him. Bobby (Johnson) and his crew do a great job keeping him at his best. That win is — for sure — a highlight for me ... It’ll be a win I’ll definitely remember!”

Allmyxsliventexas won his fourth in a row at Cal-Expo. Assigned the outside post position 10, Cutting floated the big horse out and then secured an inside lane after the quarter to sit third-to-last through hot early fractions. Fourth-over in the flow at the half-mile, Cutting noticeably had his mount braver than most — he patiently waited until turning for home — and then, with a five-wide launch, “He blows away the field!” roared track announcer Gary Seibel.

(with files from Western Fair)