Grey Horizon (Vertical Horizon) has claimed his third consecutive harness racing stake final, further establishing himself as Alberta’s premier sophomore colt by winning the $107,030 Western Canada Pacing Derby on Saturday (Oct. 12) at Century Mile.
Driven by trainer Brandon Campbell, Grey Horizon swiftly took the lead from post two before allowing the quick-starting Believe It Sea It (Kelly Hoerdt) to pass him before reaching the quarter in :29. Believe It Sea It opened up a significant lead, hitting the half in a brisk 56.2. However, Grey Horizon closed the gap as they approached the final turn and challenged at three-quarters, reaching that mark in 1:25.1.
Despite some resistance from Believe It Sea It into mid-stretch, Grey Horizon pulled ahead to secure the win, finishing two lengths clear with a time of 1:54.3. Outlawstaythcourse (Dave Kelly) surged from eighth to take second place, just edging out Yyc On The Horizon (Jamie Gray) on the far outside.
Grey Horizon paid $2.30 to win.
Outlawguns N Roses has also been a force this year, boasting a record of 10 wins in 12 starts and victories in four stakes finals. Trained by Rodney Starkewski, the filly has secured 14 wins out of 21 career races, amassing earnings of $340,810. Starkewski co-owns her with Clauzette Byckal from Onoway.
Drivers Kelly and Hennessy both achieved success, winning four races each during the night’s 12-race card.
Racing will resume at Century Mile on Friday, Oct. 18.