Sea Laird went a first-over trip to win the featured $13,000 Preferred Handicap Pace on Friday night (Jan. 20) at The Raceway as Western Fair District.

Sent postward as the slight 9-5 second choice from the outside post six with Colin Kelly catch-driving, Sea Laird crossed into fourth position off the gate and launched his attack after the opening lap with first-half fractions clocked in :27.3 and :58.4 by the favoured Cheddar Bay (J Harris).

Sea Laird challenged the front-striding favourite into the backstretch, gaining a slight advantage on the outside while racing to three-quarters in 1:27.2, then drew clear approaching the wire to win by 1-3/4 lengths in 1:57.1. Harpers Hat Trick (Travis Henry) and Mad Man Hill (Tyler Borth) came on late to finish second and third forcing Cheddar Bay to settle for fourth.

Trained by Terry Gallant for owner Stacey Smith Robinson of South Mountain, Ont., Sea Laird entered the Friday feature with wins in two of his previous three starts including his last appearance at Western Fair in the Preferred on Dec. 20. He returned $5.60 to his backers at the betting windows.

Following up a 10-win campaign last year, Sea Laird picked up his first win of 2023 and his 24th victory lifetime. The seven-year-old Custard The Dragon-Devil Likes It Hot gelding went over the $200,000 mark in career earnings. 

To view Friday's harness racing results, click the following link: Friday Results - Western Fair Raceway.