Ten different trainers each got a slice of the pie during the 10-race season opener at The Raceway at the Western Fair District on Monday evening (Oct. 2). Alvin Hamilton and Head Honcho took the $7,500 top class on the card, a condition pace for horses and geldings.
Paul MacKenzie took Head Honcho from gate-to-wire in his triumph. The pair posted panels in :27, :57 and 1:25.4 before crossing the wire three-quarters of a length in front in 1:56.1. Murrays Watching (Travis Henry) pocketed second and Up Joeys Credit (Colin Kelly) was third.
William Thompson owns the four-year-old gelded son of Control The Moment and the Art Major mare Dani Hanover. Unraced as a freshman and with only two starts as a sophomore, Head Honcho earned his seventh seasonal and career tally, moving his career earnings to $45,715. He paid $6.50 to win as the 2-1 third choice on the board.
Western Fair's 2023-2024 meet includes 123 race dates through May, racing three nights per week on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays this month.
Several special events are planned this fall, including the Donnie McElroy Memorial on Friday, Oct. 13, London Classic Yearling Sale with a special menu at the Top Of The Fair on Tuesday, Oct. 17, the 18th annual Harness The Hope Night on Friday, Oct. 20, Caretaker Appreciation Day on Nov. 3 and the annual Holiday Drivers Challenge in support of Toys For Tots on Sunday, Dec. 10.
To view Monday's harness racing results, click the following link: Monday Results - The Raceway at the Western Fair District.