The recent $10,000 Fillies and Mares Preferred Pace event at Fraser Downs showcased noteworthy performances, headlined by Kootenay Cocoa's flawless record of eight consecutive victories and Cody Easton securing his inaugural training triumph. The day's activities culminated with Gin Is Better claiming victory in the feature distaff pace.
Under the ownership, training, and driving of Clinton Warrington, Gin Is Better initially held the fifth position. Progressing steadily through splits of :26.4 and :57.1, the mare advanced to the top four after a challenging first over journey. Nearing the three-quarters mark in 1:25.3, Gin Is Better surged ahead of the 12-1 leader Hotpieceoface (Allan Molloy), ultimately crossing the finish line with a commanding 3-1/4 length lead in a time of 1:54.4. Hotpieceoface secured second place, while Mystic Shadow (Bradley Watt) settled for third.
Aged six, Gin Is Better, sired by Betterthancheddar and Red Star Ginny, boasts a track record of ten victories. With a total of 76 career starts, she has amassed earnings of $77,890. Overcoming the odds at 7-1, Gin Is Better surprised onlookers with a rewarding $17.60 return on a winning bet.
The card's initial race saw Kootenay Cocoa, priced at $2.10, maintain her unbeaten streak, claiming an eighth consecutive triumph under the guidance of Tyson Jacoby. The Kyle Chadwick-trained horse dominated the $6,500 conditioned pace, leading wire-to-wire and finishing in 1:56.1 with a significant 6-1/4 length margin.
In the second race, featuring a $6,000 fillies and mares conditioned pace, Cody Easton celebrated his first training win with Vintage Lass, prevailing at odds of $10.10. Piloted by Kelly Hoerdt, the horse secured victory by 1-3/4 lengths in a time of 1:57.