Back in action after an injury forced him to the sidelines for last week's $34,000 Preferred Pace at Mohawk Racetrack, defending Horse of the Year State Treasurer overcame an assigned outside post with an authoritative effort to win Saturday night's (August 13) edition.
Driver Chris Christoforou left from post nine with State Treasurer and tracked Nirvana Seelster's cover as that pacer worked to clear The Wayfaring Man through the :27.1 opening quarter. Once Nirvana Seelster touched down on the front end, State Treasurer crossed over and proceeded to lead the field past the half in :55.1 and three-quarters in 1:23 wile extending his margin to five and a half lengths. He remained strong through the stretch with a :27.1 final frame to post a dominant 1:50.1 victory over the "good" track. Ellis Park, the 5-2 favourite, advanced from the backfield to finish second and Nickle Bag followed the runner-up's cover to show.
State Treasurer paid $8.60 to win as the 3-1 third choice. The victory was his second in 12 starts this year and 32nd lifetime.
The double millionaire had recently recovered from an injury to his left hind hoof caused when he stepped on a two-inch #10 screw during a workout session. Trainer and veterinarian Dr. Ian Moore tended to the injury to bring the seven-year-old son of Real Desire back to winning form on Saturday for owners Sally MacDonald of Souris, P.E.I. and Paul MacDonald of Toronto.
To view Saturday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Saturday Results - Mohawk Racetrack.