Woodbine Mohawk Park hosted an event that put the spotlight on future harness racing stars, attracting a diverse crowd of spectators. Owners, young Amish men, trainers, and fans gathered to watch 14 qualifiers for 2-year-old male pacers and trotters. Among them was Ken Wiese, a resident of Burlington, ON, who was particularly interested in watching his trotter, Lifting Legend, compete. Wiese, a fractional owner with TheStable, expressed excitement about the upcoming races.
Accompanied by his wife Peggy Wood, Wiese shared their journey as fractional owners in the horse racing industry. They reminisced about their past successes and the joy they derived from being part of the sport. Wood highlighted Wiese’s early involvement in harness racing, tracing it back to his uncle’s influence and their participation in mentorship programs.
Attendees at the event enjoyed a pancake breakfast while watching the young horses on the track. Curtis MacDonald’s Primetime Racing live-streamed the races for those unable to attend in person. This new venture, which began in 2025, aimed to showcase not only the baby races but also major events in the harness racing calendar.
Mark McKelvie, a senior manager at Woodbine Mohawk Park, expressed admiration for the quality of 2-year-olds participating in the qualifiers. He noted the improvement in breeding standards, leading to a promising crop of young horses. McKelvie specifically highlighted the impact of sires like Cattlewash, whose offspring were making a mark in the racing scene.
Several horses, including Beau Jangles and Run To The Hills, demonstrated their potential during the qualifiers, impressing onlookers with their speed and talent. Trainer Dr. Ian Moore appeared confident in his stable’s prospects, with horses like Dad, Alcatraz Blue Chip, and PNG Shadow showing promise in the early stages of their careers.
Trainer Dave Menary emphasized the importance of baby races in assessing the progress of young horses. Menary, who closely monitored his colt, Scorpion Seelster, during the event, highlighted the need for a positive experience for both the horse and its connections. He stressed the significance of managing horses’ readiness and well-being throughout their development.
The event at Woodbine Mohawk Park not only provided a platform for showcasing emerging talent but also offered a glimpse into the dedication and passion of those involved in the harness racing industry. As spectators and participants alike witnessed the potential of these young horses, the excitement and anticipation for their future performances continued to grow.
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