The stars aligned for the Marc Campbell stable as his pupils defeated the best Invitational pacers in Atlantic Canada on Saturday evening (June 24) at Red Shores Racetrack and Casino at the Charlottetown Driving Park.
Roll Em went first-over and demolished the field in 1:51.3, in line to trainer Campbell as part of a driving grand slam and training triple on the card, in a $7,500 Ladner division over Twin B Tuffenuff (driven by Gilles Barrieau) and Laughagain Hanover (Jason Hughes), who was placed to third. Brady Doyle co-owns the pacer with Brent Campbell, Ryan MacLeod and the Savage Stable.
YS Mathis won the other $7,500 Ladner Invitational race by a neck in 1:53.2 with Corey MacPherson in tow for trainer Campbell. No Plan Intended (Jason Hughes) was second in that photo with Matticulous GB (Ken Murphy) completing the triactor. The Sportswriter stallion is owned by Brady Doyle and Jacinta Campbell.
The superb 15-dash program also featured the Home Hardware Maritime Breeders for three-year-old pacers.
Bacononabiscuit (Marc Campbell) won a $15,700 colt division in 1:56 for owner MCR Bacononabiscuit Group and trainer Stacey Darrach over JJ Landon (Gilles Barrieau) and No Boats On Sunday (Myles Heffernan Sr.).
Woodmere Dealer won another split for trainer-driver Hughes and owner Donald MacRae in 1:57. Second went to Woodmere Knight (Ken Murphy) with Junes Boy (Paul Langille) third.
Malignity and trainer-driver Paul Langille captured the fastest split, stopping the clock in 1:54.2 over Howmac Charmer (Patrick Shepherd) and Proudofyatoday (Marc Campbell). Debbie Francis co-owns the Malicious colt with fellow Bluenoser Rosanne Langille.
Our Girl Annie returned to her winning ways in a $16,100 Home Hardware Maritime Breeders filly division with a 1:56.3 score for driver MacPherson, trainer Eddy Doucette and owners Blaine, Jennifer and Jessica Thibeau. Saulsbrook Abbey (Jason Hughes) rallied for second ahead of Woodmere Jade (Myles Heffernan Sr.).
Lookoveryour was an upset winner in her division sitting second and breezing past race favourite Saulsbrook Mabel (Gilles Barrieau) in the stretch to win in 1:55.1. The Stonebridge Terror lass is trained and driven by Campbell for owners Jeff and Philip Valley. Third went to Next In Line (Jason Hughes).
The final filly division went to Itsuptoyou (Marc Campbell) in 1:56.4 from the Kevin MacLean barn for owner Reg MacPherson. Elm Grove Redwine (David Dowling) was second with Lil Reeses Pieces (Adam Merner) completing the triactor.
MacPherson completed his driving hat trick winning the finale with Mr Rielly in 1:56.
Trainer Wade Myers had two trips to the winner’s circle with Slate N (David Dowling) in 1:57.1 and Leavin Bruises (Ken Murphy) in 1:55.3.
The wager was $109,348.
Red Shores Announces Final Results Of All Star Handicapping Challenge
The All Star Handicapping Challenge at Red Shores Racetrack and Casino at the Charlottetown Driving Park has concluded with an exhilarating final leg that tested the skills and knowledge of the participating All Stars. The highly competitive 15-race program pushed the contenders to their limits, resulting in a thrilling finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
In a remarkable come-from-behind victory, Robert Reid Jr. clinched the top position with an impressive total of 121 points. Close on his heels was Garnet Barnsdale, finishing in second place with 120 points, while Dawn Lupul secured a commendable third place with 117 points in the four-week challenge. Through the intense competition, there was a constant exchange of leads, making it an unpredictable battle until the very end.
"The challenge couldn't have been any tighter all the way to the finish." said Lee Drake, the Manager of Racing and Broadcast at Red Shores. "We couldn't have asked for a better matchup among these talented All Stars."
Reid, in response to his victory, shared his excitement on Twitter, stating, "What a thrilling finish! I'm honoured to come out on top in such a challenging competition. Thank you to all the fans who believed in me and supported me throughout."
The fans displayed their astute judgment by favouring Reid as the top pick to win the competition, with 50 per cent of the votes backing him. To express their gratitude for the fans' unwavering support, Red Shores will hold a draw for merchandise exclusively among those who voted for Reid. Additionally, there will be a draw among fans who selected the winner each night of the competition. The winners of these draws will be announced during the Thursday, June 29 program.
The All Star Handicapping Challenge showcased the best of harness racing handicapping expertise, captivating fans and participants alike. Red Shores extends its heartfelt congratulations to Reid, Barnsdale and Lupul for their outstanding performances throughout the competition. The dedication and skill demonstrated by these All Stars truly embody the spirit of our sport.
Live racing continues on Tuesday evening (June 27) at 6 p.m. (ADT) at Red Shores Summerside.
To view Saturday's harness racing results, click the following link: Saturday Results - Charlottetown Driving Park.
(Red Shores)