Century Mile racetrack finally opened on Sunday, June 21, getting Alberta Thoroughbred racing back on track after being delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
And when champion jockey Rico Walcott guided CHASKA to victory in race 1, the path was set for a big opening, with spectators not allowed just yet (although the casino is open).
Below – Chaska wins in the first race:
https://www.facebook.com/centurymile/videos/269995081107292/
Unfortunately the evening didn’t continue very smoothly as two horses became embroiled in a pre-race mess at race 6, injuring Walcott and fellow rider Adrian Gonzalez, who had just won race 5. Early reports say Walcott will be out about a week with a minor injury while Gonzalez may have a broken leg.
There was a delay of almost an hour as the riders were tended to and taken to the hospital while another ambulance was summoned. The last race of the card was a dazzling track record romp by Deuces are Wild in a maiden allowance race at 5 1/2 furlongs. The Kentucky-bred son of Midshipman won by 8 3/4 lengths in 1:02.21 for Frank and Teri Bodell. The 4-year-old is trained by Dave Nicholson.
Read more about opening night at Century Mile with comments regarding the handle.
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