Hugh Heff hadn't found the winner's circle in three appearances, and while that losing skid might not necessarily be notable in most circumstances it marked the longest streak of missed winner's circle appearances for the winningest horse of 2024 since landing in Cape Breton last year.
On Saturday, Aug. 2 at Northside Downs, Hugh Heff delivered an on-the-engine winning performance in the $1,700 Winners Over Pace to resume his winning ways.
Drawing a rare rail starting position, Hugh Heff and driver Randy Getto found their way to the front early while being pressed by Kiss Me Im Irish (Mark Pezzarello) heading to the :28.2 opening quarter. After Pezzarello pulled his mare into the pocket, Hugh Heff had his things all his own way for the rest of the test. With middle fractions of :59 and 1:29.4 unbothered on top, Hugh Heff cruised home in :28.4 for the easy 1:58.3 decision. Kiss Me Im Irish finished second, 2-1/2 lengths back with Kiss Me Im Irish while Red Rum She Wrote rounded out the top trio.
A five-year-old altered son of Betterthancheddar - Danika Patrix, Hugh Heff is owned by Randy Getto of New Waterford, Susan MacSween of River Ryan and Wayne Hardy of Sydney, N.S. The win marked his eighth of the year and 40th lifetime in 85 starts, lifting his career earnings to $114,121. As the 1/4 choice, he returned $2.50 on a $2 win wager.
Earlier on the card, 22-year-old Shann Cox of Sydney, N.S. notched her first career training win when Daddys Eyes ($5.20) prevailed in the third race for driver Carey Romeo. Cox also owns the 10-year-old son of Mr Brightside - Nazko Finally, now a 25-time winner.
For the full results from Saturday's card of harness racing in Cape Breton, click the following link: Saturday Results - Northside Downs.
(Standardbred Canada)