The Jackpot Hi-5 went untouched on Thursday evening (November 22) at Woodbine Mohawk Park and continues to grow, setting up what could be a very happy holiday season for one horseplayer with a potential payout approaching the $130,000 mark.
In the evening's 10th race finale which offered the Jackpot Hi-5 wager, Leader Tonight wore down race leader Backyard Swagger and held off the rest of the nine-horse field that finished within 3-1/2 lengths of the 1:55.2 winner. Forced three-wide down the backstretch with 33-1 longshot Miramichi David getting jammed up in front, Leader Tonight went on and took command in the stretch. Miramichi David finished a half-length back with Kingofbrokenhearts closing along the pylons and finishing less than a length behind in third. Lyons Beachboy edged out Shrimp And Grits in the top five.
After an inquiry into the racing action at the half-mile mark, judges ruled Miramichi David had caused interference to Leader Tonight. There was no placing necessary as Leader Tonight finished ahead of Miramichi David.
Sylvain Filion drove the winning three-year-old son of Leader Bayama for trainer Chantal Mitchell and owner Elisabeth Pothier. Sent off as the 5-1 fourth choice among the field of younger pacers, Leader Tonight returned $13.30 for a $2 win ticket while the odds-on favourite Supersport ended up ninth.
With no winning tickets for the Jackpot Hi-5, the carryover will be $128,378.42 for Friday night's 10th race.
To view Thursday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Thursday Results - Mohawk Park.