Stirling Cadet changed tactics on Sunday afternoon (July 17) and wound up displaying his versatility as he scored the win in the $15,000 Open Trot.
The Jackie Rousse-trained five-year-old is known for his early speed, but took back in the early going in Sunday’s feature for high-steppers. Frank Coppola Jr. worked out a second over trip for Stirling Cadet behind the race’s favourite, Boli (Wally Hennessey), and tipped off that cover around the final turn. Stirling Cadet trotted past Boli in the stretch to record his third victory in the local Open Trot this year, stopping the timer in 1:55.3. Boli was the runner-up for the fourth consecutive time in the Sunday feature while Just Make Believe (Mark Beckwith) earned the show spot.
Stirling Cadet returned $8.10 to win. The exacta, with Boli as the runner-up, paid $10 while the triple came back $41.40 in the six-horse Open.
The winning Conway Hall gelding is owned by Kellogg Racing Stables Ll.
(With files from Saratoga Casino Hotel)