Nothingbutmach and Excellence were upset winners in their respective Preferred assignments during Monday’s 12-race card at The Raceway at Western Fair District.
Excellence, who was sent off at odds of 3-1, pulled off the mini surprise in the $7,000 Preferred 3 for trotters. Robert Shepherd came first-over with the Ian Downey trainee, and the mare drew clear to win by 2-1/4 lengths over Incredable Frank in 2:00.2. Cimeronken, who supplied the field with splits of :29.3, 1:01 and 1:30.2, tired late and settled for third prize.
Susan Downey of St. George Brant, Ontario owns the seven-year-old daughter of Kadabra-Noble Message. The victory was her ninth of the season and the 22nd of her career. The lion’s share of the purse bumped her lifetime bankroll to $194,660.
Nothingbutmach erupted for a 10-1 upset in the $7,350 Preferred 3 for Horses & Geldings. The veteran was treated to a second-over trip by driver Travis Henry, and when Henry called on him to sprint he complied. The gelding charged off cover late and used a :29.3 closing panel to win by 1-1/4 lengths over Stoney Durkin in 1:56.3. Rock N Roll Legacy took home the show dough.
Trainer Dean Nixon co-owns the eight-year-old son of Mach Three-Nothing Special with Justin Nixon of Amherstburg, Ontario. It was the 10th win of the year for the 18-time winner who now boasts a bankroll that stands at $161,160.
To view results for Monday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Monday Results – The Raceway at Western Fair District.