Champion trotter San Pail certainly showed everyone at Kawartha Downs exactly why he was such a champion. Despite the fact that he hasn’t raced regularly for more than a year, he was full of spunk during his Saturday ceremonies in the winner’s circle at Kawartha Downs.
“That’s exactly why he was as good as he was on the racetrack,” said Jerry Hughes, the father of San Pail’s trainer and co-owner Rod Hughes and his devoted caretaker throughout his $3 million winning career.
“When we raced him at the Meadowlands it took three of us to walk him,” laughed Rod. “He pulled us along like we were on skates,” added Jerry, “that’s how powerful he is and that showed on the track, he’d just put his head down and go.”
Now 11, San Pail led the post parade tonight before the San Pail Retirement trot with Rod at the lines. They then returned to the winner’s circle for the ceremony which was cut short when San Pail decided he’d had enough. Also joining in the ceremony was Glenn Van Camp, San Pail’s breeder and co-owner.
Following the official ceremony, fans had the opportunity to win a chance to visit with San Pail in the backstretch and many race goers were thrilled to have a chance to pet a Horse of the Year in Canada and the US (2011) and three time Maple Leaf Trot winner. San Pail was a gentleman as many fans took photos in the stall with him.
"He's much better in the stall than on the track," laughed Rod.
Chuckalo Caden and Tony Kerwood were the winners in the San Pail Retirement trot in 1:58. Hughes’ entry, Excuse Me Please, picked up fourth.
It was a fitting end to the incredible trotter’s storied career as it started at Kawartha, the home track for Rod Hughes who is based in Dunsford, Ontario, where San Pail will now enjoy a life of leisure after thrilling racing fans with his talent for many years.
(Kawartha Downs)
To view results for Saturday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Saturday Results – Kawartha Downs.