Fairiesdelight A celebrated a triumphant return to racing in style, capturing the prestigious $24,324 Filly and Mare Open Pace at MGM Northfield Park on Saturday, February 10.
After a spell of inactivity since mid-January, the mare underwent a commendable qualification process at The Meadows last week, setting the stage for her remarkable comeback. As the gates burst open, Fairiesdelight A, skillfully guided by the talented Aaron Merriman, swiftly surged ahead, instantly facing fierce competition from Rockabillycockshut, steered by the skilled Luke Hanners, and Kat, expertly handled by the experienced Greg Grismore, who tenaciously defended their pylon positions.
Despite Rockabillycockshut taking charge into the backstretch, Fairiesdelight A showcased relentless determination, grinding away on the outside until she impressively crossed over, seizing control of the field before reaching the paddock.
The indomitable Think Of Galaxies, splendidly driven by the talented Billy Davis Jr., applied immediate pressure and managed to surpass the leader after a gruelling opening quarter of :27.2. Davis then expertly managed the pace, enjoying a relatively unchallenged second panel with a comfortable :29.2 breather, while encountering minimal pressure from the trailing pack.
Meanwhile, the formidable Kat launched a vigorous bid for the lead on the outside, accompanied by the tenacious Creme Delight, masterfully guided by Hunter Myers, who closely followed her every move. With the race intensifying, Creme Delight executed an impressive three-wide manoeuvre into the backstretch, forcefully asserting herself into second place and gallantly passing the three-quarter mark in 1:26. In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, Merriman astutely navigated Fairiesdelight A off the pylons, unleashing a formidable burst of energy that propelled her past Think Of Galaxies, ultimately fending off the relentless charge of Creme Delight in the final strides.
The victory margin, a hard-fought three-quarters of a length, was achieved in an impressive time of 1:55.4. Trained by the esteemed Braiden Rhoades and proudly owned by M T Stables Ontario Inc., this magnificent eight-year-old offspring of the illustrious Bettors Delight has now amassed a remarkable $179,402 in earnings, boasting an impressive record of 23 victories from 110 starts.