Ontario-sired three-year-old pacing fillies faced off in two Kin Pace eliminations on a scorching Sunday afternoon (June 26) at Clinton Raceway. Trainer Nick Gallucci swept both $7,500 eliminations with heavy favourites Velvet Stinger and Raptors Won, securing favourable post draws in the $50,500 final.
The first of two eliminations saw Velvet Stinger, a daughter of Bettors Delight, make the early lead before longshot Ribbon Ridge took over command before the quarter. This lead was short lived as driver James MacDonald called on Velvet Stinger to retake the lead at the quarter pole. MacDonald cruised through the halfway point in just 1:00 while bracing for first over attacker Warrawee Xpat.
The sprint was on when they turned for home as Warrawee Xpat and driver Brett MacDonald poked a neck in front before Velvet Stinger fought back on the inside to secure the elimination win in 1:58.1. Joining Velvet Stinger and Warrawee Xpat in the final was Ribbon Ridge and Watch Her Fly from the first elimination.
Velvet Stinger found the winner’s circle for the fourth time in 10 starts, and looks to add to her $47,917 bankroll in the $50,500 Kin Pace Final.
Similar tactics were seen in the other Kin Pace elimination. Driver James MacDonald got away third with the other Gallucci trainee Raptors Won, before making the quick move to the lead at the quarter pole. MacDonald was not taking any chances and utilized the daughter of Big Jim’s top speed to gain separation heading to the three quarter mile mark. Raptors Won stopped the clock in 1:56.0 for an impressive Kin Pace Elimination score. A late closing Creme Delight secured a second place finish, while Lyons Princess and Sexy Playmate completed the top 4 and earned spots in next Sunday’s final.
After going unraced as a two-year-old, Raptors Won has made up for lost time by winning three of seven starts this season and earning over $32,000.
The field and post positions for the $50,500 Kin Pace is listed below.
1. Creme Delight
2. Raptors Won
3. Warrawee Xpat
4 .Lyons Princess
5. Velvet Stinger
6. Watch Her Fly
7. Ribbon Ridge
8. Sexy Playmate
AE1. Power Of An Angel
AE2. Lyons Believer
Racing got underway with the last leg for the Catch Driver Claiming Series, which will also go to final on the Kin Pace program next Sunday (July 3). Blackcreek Rosebud took her competition from pole to pole, leading through a clip of :28.2, 1:00.1 and 1:29.2 to cinch a three-length victory in 1:59.4. Mark McCormack owns and trains the six-year-old mare by Sir Luck who paid $8.30 to win. Northern Belle rode the pocket for second, Kempenfelt gave chase in third and Brydown Lilibet faltered from a first-over trip into fourth.
In addition to the rich stakes final, Clinton Raceway will also play host to Ontario Sires Stakes Grassroots divisions for two-year-old colts & gelding trotters. Racing action will get underway at 1:30 p.m. (EDT).
To view Sunday's harness racing results, click the following link: Sunday Results - Clinton Raceway.
(With files from Clinton Raceway)