Fifteen years ago, Quebec-based agent/horse trader Jean Cloutier negotiated the sale to European interests of Quebec star Emilie Cas El
.
He always had a soft spot for the mare, Canada's Horse of the Year in 1994, and when given the opportunity to buy one of her offspring privately in the summer of 2009, he took it.
That acquisition, a Credit Winner filly called Impressive Kemp, is due to become his first Breeders' Crown starter Saturday at Pocono Downs.
She has Post 5 and driver Ron Pierce in the $500,000 (U.S.) final for three-year-old trotting fillies.
"I'm leaving Friday with some friends. I'm looking forward to the experience," said Cloutier, 65, who lives in Stanstead, Que.
Cloutier has been a full-time buyer, seller, breeder and owner of horses for about 25 years. His biggest deal was the $1.2-million sale of Flirtin Man.
He's had three offers so far for Impressive Kemp, first or second in eight of 13 starts this year for earnings of more than $154,000. She was runner-up to Behindclosedoors in her Breeders' Crown elimination.
"She's special," said Cloutier. "We knew she had promise when she won her third lifetime start last year in 1:55.3 [at Lexington]. And I've always loved the family."
To obtain a printable version of the 14-race program, click here.
(A Trot Insider exclusive by Paul Delean)