Indiana Hall wasted no time in setting up shop on the lead in Sunday's evening's $16,800 Preferred Trot at Flamboro Downs, and that tactical approach sat very well with the Garry Merner trainee.
In rein to Paul MacKenzie, the five-year-old son of Striking Sahbra laid down panels of :29.1, :58 and 1:27 before kicking home in :29 seconds to seal the deal in a time of 1:56. It was more than two lengths back to runner-up Meadowview Matty. Celtic Warrior made a late break, but still managed to finish third.
The OSS graduate, who is owned by S S G Stables of North Boston, NY, prevailed as the even-money favourite. It was the third win of the season and the 20th lifetime score for Indiana Hall.
In this week's edition of the $12,600 Preferred Pace, El Toro Grande used front-stepping tactics to take home top prize for trainer Anthony Montini and driver Anthony Haughan. The five-year-old son of The Panderosa, who was sent off as the odds-on choice, chopped out splits of :28.1, :57 and 1:25.4 before kicking home in :28.2 for the 1:54.1 decision.
Forrest Rhythm drafted behind the pacesetter throughout the mile and stayed to finish second. With Anticipation, who did the first over road work, held on for third prize.
George Anthony of Fort Lee, NJ claimed the gelding for $40,000 in his latest outing, and tonight's debut paid of $6,300 of his price tag. It was the 18th lifetime score for the pacer, who pushed his lifetime earnings over the $200,000 mark in the process.
To view Sunday's results, click here.