During the winter racing season, Woodbine Mohawk Park will feature a horseperson answering a handful of fun, offbeat questions, while giving readers a unique perspective into their personality on and off the racetrack.
In this edition of ‘Fast Five,’ Woodbine Mohawk Park driver Jonathan Drury answers five rapid-fire questions to let racing fans get to know him better.
Drury, who recently surpassed $30 million in lifetime purses, kept his spot in the top 10 driver standings at Woodbine Mohawk Park throughout 2023.
“I'm looking forward to continue improving things to have an even better year than last year, and I look forward to seeing horses I drove last year come back.”
What is your most memorable win?
“I would have to say the two [Ontario Sires Stakes] Super Finals that I won. The first one was a longshot, very unexpected [in 2016 with Arsenal Seelster], and the second one was more expected to win [n 2019 with Boadicea]. Both of those races were a lot of fun.”
Can you name your favourite pacer and trotter of all time?
“Somebeachsomewhere would have to be one of the best pacers. He was an incredible racehorse and I got to be around to watch a lot of his races. Moni Maker is another favourite. I was young, but I still remember watching her. She was a pretty special trotter.”
Do you have any pre-race superstitions?
“I honestly don't have any. I usually try to get home for an afternoon nap when I’m done at the barn, but if I don't, I don't. There’s nothing that I have to do to be able to go to the races. I go with the flow and however the day is going, that’s how she goes.”
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self?
“Just keep working hard. That's about all I could say. Just keep working hard and showing up and everything will fall into place.”
You’re going to a desert island and you can only bring three things. What are you packing?
“I’d probably go with pizza, a deck of cards and a dog, if I can’t bring any people.”
(With files from Woodbine)