The 2016 thoroughbred racing season at Northlands Park Racetrack & Casino concluded today with Rico Walcott winning the Harvest Gold Plate aboard Royal Warrior in the last stakes race of the season. The average daily handle was at $273,767 while the 69-day meet saw export sales hit $176,158.
“Thoroughbred racing is a true thrill ride,” said Scott Sinclair, Director Racing and Gaming, Northlands Park Racetrack & Casino. “Behind every successful season are the hardworking horsepeople at Northlands Park who bring unparalleled energy and enthusiasm to the sport of racing. As we wrap this meet, we’re excited to roll into harness racing on November 18.”
Each year Northlands Park Racetrack & Casino celebrates the leading jockeys and trainers of the season. This year’s Leading Jockey Award went to Rico Walcott for his 99 wins, 40 wins ahead of the next leading competitor. The Leading Trainer Award was presented to Greg Tracy with 83 wins and 33 victories ahead of the second place competitor.
Beginning on May 6, the 2015 thoroughbred season at Northlands Park hosted several major race days, but the highlight is always the Canadian Derby. On August 20, Shamaree Muir rode Ready Intaglio to victory in the 87th running of the Canadian Derby. Ready Intaglio’s win was a true underdog story as the smallest horse in the race (overlooked at auction and purchased after by Robbin and Eurico Martens for only $1,000) took home top honours. The Martens along with trainer Amber Meyaard watched as Ready Intaglio sprinted through on the inside and survived an inquiry to prevail at 7-2 odds, winning the 87th Canadian Derby. The last eight editions of the Canadian Derby have broken the $1-million wagering mark.
Attention now shifts to the 16-day harness racing meet that begins on Friday, November 18. Visit northlandspark.ca for more information.
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