A pedal to the metal approach paid of handsomely for Emerald Lexus in Tuesday evening’s $11,000 Horses & Geldings Preferred 2 at The Raceway at Western Fair District.
Emerald Lexus was ordered to march to the front by driver Billy Davis, Jr., and the gelding complied. The veteran whacked out panels of :30.1, 1:00.3 and 1:29.3 before uncorking a :29.1 closing quarter to win by 3-1/2 lengths over Kendal Gustav in 1:58.4. Taking home third prize in the compact field of five was Smarter Yet.
Patrick Shepherd of Lynden, Ontario owns and trains the nine-year-old son of Astreos-Aloha Marie, who was sent off as the 1/2 favourite in the featured tilt. It was the second win of the year – and the 20th to date – for the career winner of $157,953.
A step up in class didn’t stop Stoney Durkin from making a round trip to victory lane as he rallied for a 1:59.4 score in the $7,500 Horses & Geldings Preferred 3.
Keaton fired to the front and kicked out fractions of :29.3, 1:00.4 and 1:29.3 while Stoney Durkin was treated to a sweet trip in the pocket spot. Scout Coulter found clearance in the lane for Stoney Durkin, and the gelding used a :30-second closing quarter to win by half a length over For A Bettor Time in 1:59.4. Race favourite Keaton weakened late and settled for third prize.
Trainer Larry Fitzsimmons co-owns the six-year-old son of Whosurboy-Stonebridge Flores with William Durkin of Sparta, Ontario. It was the 14th lifetime score for the career winner of $130,971.
To view results for Tuesday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Tuesday Results – The Raceway at Western Fair District.