Odds-on choice Marshall Zhukov showed little doubt to his backers off the final turn as he strode to an open-length victory in the $7,200 Prospect Series split for two-year-old pacing colts and geldings on Saturday night (Aug. 13) at Hiawatha Horse Park.
Trainer-driver Mario Baillargeon raced patiently with Marshall Zhukov while Olczyk cleared control to lead through fractions of :28, :57 and 1:26.2 with mid-race pressure from Xtra Cheese. Once Xtra Cheese gave way, Baillargeon bolted Marshall Zhukov after the leader and grabbed control with ease in progress to a 6-1/4-length win in 1:57.3. Pebble Beach Pro took second with Olczyk fading to third and Xtra Cheese holding fourth.
Marshall Zhukov races for owner-breeder Frederick MacDonald. The colt by Shadow Play won his third race from four starts and has now earned $12,250. He paid $2.40 to win.
The lone $7,000 split of the Prospect Series for two-year-old trotting colts and geldings went to Impressive Dude in 2:03.2. Driver Loic Gueriel sat second with Impressive Dude as Allstar Megastar carved a clip of :30, 1:00.4 and 1:32.1. Passing three-quarters, Gueriel tipped the favourite from the pylons and circled to the lead coming for home to win by 1-1/4 lengths. Danangus N Donald finished second with Allstar Megastar holding third.
Jean Tourigny conditions Impressive Dude for owners Louis-Philippe Roy, Michel Letarte and Jean Allaire. The colt by My MVP broke his maiden at first asking, banking $3,500, and paid $3.20 to win.
To view Saturday's harness racing results, click the following link: Saturday Results - Hiawatha Horse Park.