The jump to the Preferred ranks one week ago was anything but productive for Shadywood Baron, but with an improved post position in Monday’s second go around against Western Fair Raceway’s top pacers
the gelding turned in an eye-catching upset.
Shadywood Baron got away fourth from his post three perch for driver Alfie Carroll while Acceptable Risk shot to the lead and provided the field with a :29-second opening panel. Acceptable Risk was still the leader at the mid-way point in :59.3, but Carroll had Shadywood Baron going into attack mode as the eight-pack of pacers moved in front of the grandstand.
Shadywood Baron showed a short lead on the outside of Acceptable Risk at the three-quarter pole in 1:28.1, but the Jim Ellis-trained gelding used a :28.1 final frame to draw off to a 6-1/4 length tally over Acceptable Risk in 1:56.2. Longshot Oakley Seelster came on strong in the lane and finished third.
Betty Ellis of Essex, ON bred and owns the eight-year-old son of Rambaran-Taylor Kate, who was sent off as an 8-1 outsider in the rich tilt. The victory was the second score this season in six tries for the veteran, who is a 24-time winner in his career. The $7,400 payday boosted his overall earnings to $263,556.
To view results for Monday's card of harness racing, please click the following link: Monday Results – Western Fair Raceway.