The field for this year’s Molson Pace has now been finalized, but not before some last second changes to the line-up had to be made.
The connections of Rockin In Heaven accepted an invite to join the seven previously-confirmed entries, and the son of Rock N Roll Heaven is coming off a victory this past weekend at Mohawk –- his first victory in three trips postward this season.
The five-year-old boasts career earnings of $548,971 for his trainer Dr. Ian Moore, who co-owns along with Doug Polley and Gordon McComb of Nova Scotia and Francois Lecompte of Quebec. Moore trained three-time Molson Pace champion State Treasurer.
Soto, who was to make the trek from Delaware, has been withdrawn due to a minor foot injury that will likely keep him out of action for a week.
Replacing Soto will be Fool Me Once who was to be this year’s Also Eligible (A.E.) in the field. The seven-year-old son of Art Major is a 35-time career who is on the verge of millionaire status with more than $963,000 on his card. Owned by Brad Grant of Milton, Ont., the pacer has won three straight at Mohawk including a 1:50.4 victory this past weekend against Preferred company.
The post draw for the $150,000 Molson Pace was conducted on The Raceway’s pre-game show at 5:30 p.m. Below is a list of the starters in post position order along with their career earnings and named driver:
1. Bit Of A Legend ($1,525,011) – Jordan Stratton
2. Rockin In Heaven ($548,971) – Trevor Henry
3. Clear Vision ($2,703,859) – Brett Miller
4. Fool Me Once ($963,778) – Doug McNair
5. Evenin Of Pleasure ($773,857) – Sylvain Filion
6. Sunfire Blue Chip ($1,181,939) – Mark MacDonald
7. Rockin Ron ($665,988) – Matt Kakaley
8. Night Pro ($738,432) – Bob McClure
“We are extremely happy with the field we’ve assembled and we’re eagerly looking forward to Friday evening,” said assistant manager, Greg Gangle. “The field includes local talent along with some fresh faces. Overall, it’s a well-balanced group and should produce not only a great race but a very enticing wagering proposition.”
(WFD)