Julie Walker trainee Northern Royale circled to the lead past the quarter and rebuffed late challenger Veyron to emerge victorious in the $10,000 Preferred 3 Trot on Sunday (June 20) at Georgian Downs.
Away second to a :28.3 first quarter, driver Jean Renaud vacated the pocket with Northern Royale to take command from Sicario passing the stands first time. She slowed the tempo to a :58 half but had to quicken up the backside as Veyron came calling first over. That first-over foe loomed closer past three-quarters in 1:27.2 and drew to within a head of the lead off the turn, but Northern Royale dug in and stayed in front to the finish of a 1:56.3 mile to win by three-quarter lengths. Sicario finished third.
A five-year-old mare by Royalty For Life, Northern Royale won her 11th race from 36 starts, earning $129,655. Brenda Walker and Nancy Holmes own the $10.50 winner.
To view Sunday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Sunday Results - Georgian Downs.