The fledgling WATHNAN RACING, owned by the Emir of Qatar, started and won with its first Canadian starter when HAUNTED DREAM (Ire) rolled to a handy win in Saturday’s Grade 3 Singspiel Stakes worth $150,000. Ridden with patience and precision by Rafael Hernandez, who won both stakes races on September 6 to go to 13 stakes win on the year, Haunted Dream (Oasis Dream (GB) – Red Halo (Ire), Galileo (Ire)) won the 1 3/8 mile turf test, held on the inner course for the first time, by 1 1/2 lengths over a late-charging Tosen Wish (Ire), owned by Team Valor International.
Haunted Dream was one of the first purchases by Wathnan, which bought the grey privately late in 2023. The gelding won his first race for his new interests when taking the Al Safliya Cup (G3) in Qatar. Since then, Haunted Dream has won twice, including another edition of the Al Safliya. The Irish-bred came to Woodbine for trainer Hamad Al Jehani and assistant Tommy Allen off a troubled run in the Rose of Lancaster Stakes (G3) at Haydock on Aug. 9.
Haunted Dream easily took to Woodbine’s inner turf, setting a course record of 2:15.40.
Described as a ‘yard favourite,’ Haunted Dream has a career record of nine wins in 39 races and over $703,000 in earnings.
“We made a bit of a plan to travel and bring him here,” said assistant trainer Allen. “Rafael gave him a very uncomplicated ride. And as he said, just kept it simple and gave him plenty of room.
“It’s been a fantastic experience for all of us to come out here. Facilities are great. Everyone’s been very welcoming.”
It is not certain if Haunted Dream will return to Woodbine for the 12 furlong Canadian International (G1) next month.
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