Since Kawartha Downs opened for its 2014 meet in June, Whitesand Merlot has been one of the most regular performers, having raced in all but one of the 11 programs to date.
Her consistency was rewarded tonight as she scored her first win since shifting to the Fraserville, Ont. oval. Trainer and owner James Kay was up behind the 11 year-old daughter of Northern Luck, who was home first in 1:59.3.
An iron horse, with 244 lifetime starts to date, Whitesand Merlot hails from one of the most notable female pacers of all time, Silk Stockings, her third dam. A winner of more than $694,000 four decades ago, Silk Stockings was also known for her toughness and her great rivalry with another outstanding female pacer, Tarport Hap.
Racing continues at Kawartha next Saturday night, with elevated purses for several of the races. Racing begins at 7 p.m.
To view Saturday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Saturday Results - Kawartha Downs.
(Kawartha Downs)