An influx of Quebec-owned standardbreds has bolstered the horse population in Fredericton this season. Another horse from La Belle Province has put together a valiant effort over the capital city's half-miler.
Ralph Francoeur's E F Fantasia scored a half-length victory in 1:57.1 in the evening's feature, earning a new speed badge while defeating Woodmere Sandman and Dance Hanover. Saint John-based driver Dale Spence survived an objection launched by Lonny Stokes, returning 6-1 on the nose to his supporters in the ninth and final dash on the card.
Spence was able to squeeze along the pylons to improve his track position on the way to the five-eighths pole. Judges determined that no racing rules were violated and the victory was allowed to stand.
Francoeur, who also bred the five-year-old mare, has enjoyed her production. E F Fantasia now has two wins in New Brunswick since competing at Quebec City early last month.
Ed Harvey's Seven Signs also put together a sub-2:00 effort. Both driver and horse experienced their fastest career victories in 1:58.4. Owned by Ralph Harvey of Riverview, Seven Signs benefitted from an aggressive steer and defeated Ultimate Spirit and reigning Horse of the Year, Ace On The River.
Gilles Barrieau notched a driving triple on the card. His fastest was with a precocious Carleton County-owned colt called Paris Knight. Owen Davies, Richard Cluff, and Tim Cluff own the papers of the son of Neutralize, appearing poised for the Maine-stakes circuit following back-to-back wins to open his sophomore season. Paris Knight demolished his competition by eight lengths in 1:59.1.
Barrieau also scored with Michaels Pleasure in 2:01.4 and Texas Treasure in 2:00.3. Other winners were Nicoles Baby (Todd Trites) in 2:01.1, Same Old Story (Phillip Hodgson) in 2:02.3, Breeze Hanover (Stacy Gay) in 2:01.1 and Tornado Sky (Mike Campbell) in 2:01.2.
(HRNB)
To view results for Tuesday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Tuesday Results – Fredericton Raceway.