Pretty Crafty, a three-year-old daughter of Here Comes Herbie, will look for her third straight victory Thursday evening at Woodbine Racetrack when she takes to the oval in the program's $60,000 Autumn Stakes final

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Driven by Mario Baillargeon for his brother, conditioner Ben Baillargeon, the three-time victress has had her fair share of issues this summer.

The veteran driver is happy to see her fortunes have turned around.

“She started out this season on a good note,” Mario said. “She finished second in the first (Ontario Sires Stakes) Gold elimination at Western Fair, then she made a break in the final. It was always behind the gate. She was so tough to handle going to the gate that she would make a break.”

After a couple of unsuccessful starts, the decision was made to give Pretty Crafty the summer months off in preparation for the winter.

“My brother (Ben) decided to turn her out for a few months, so she could grow up a little. We brought her back in the fall and we took the hopples off her and she’s been much better, especially behind the gate.”

Looking ahead to Thursday’s final, Mario remains confident in his charge.

“There is no reason why she shouldn’t be in the top three. The other elimination winner (First Flower) raced well last week, too. It will come down to the trip, but my horse has some terrific breeding, so hopefully that will show, too.”

Pretty Crafty, a career winner of $83,570 for owner/breeder Richard Thompson, Robert Watson and Mike Bartram, is a half-sister to Digital Image ($611,798).

While the brothers believe better days are ahead for Pretty Crafty, they’re focus is on the Autumn.

“Ben and I both think that this filly is only going to get better and stronger next season. She’s just a nice-sized horse who’s very handy. She’s definitely going in the right direction to have a good couple of years. But, right now, we will just worry about Thursday.”

To view the harness racing entries for Thursday at Woodbine, click the following link: Thursday - Woodbine Racetrack.

(WEG)