James MacDonald made an indomitable mark on the Thursday evening card at Woodbine Mohawk Park by clinching an astonishing five wins, including a clean sweep of the highly anticipated Blizzard Pacing Series.
Each of these victories carried a substantial $18,000 purse, adding to the excitement of the night.
One of the standout moments of the evening occurred in the second division of the Blizzard Pacing Series, where MacDonald teamed up with Angostura Hanover, a talented student of trainer Kyle Fellows. Angostura Hanover's display of skill and determination resulted in an impressive 1:54 victory.
Starting from the fifth position, she patiently bided her time until making a decisive move towards the front. As the three-quarters mark approached, Angostura Hanover steadily advanced and eventually claimed the lead at the final turn. With an exceptional burst of speed, she powered through the home stretch, crossing the finish line in 1:54, triumphing by a three-quarters length margin. Avas Angel Baby and True That secured second and third-place honours, respectively, but it was Angostura Hanover who stole the spotlight.
Angostura Hanover, an impressive four-year-old daughter of Betting Line and the talented Artsplace mare Armbro Amoretto, showcased her prowess by securing her second win in just three starts this season. Moreover, this victory marked her seventh career triumph out of a total of 21 starts. Dr A. J. Peter Johnston and A.Craig Watkins, the proud owners of this exceptional filly, watched with delight as she added $74,592 to her already impressive career earnings. As the clear favourite, Angostura Hanover rewarded her supporters with a well-deserved win, paying out $2.60.
MacDonald's domination extended to the Blizzard Pacing Series as he celebrated another resounding victory, this time aboard the talented Margosgotthecargo. Trained by the skilled Andrew Moore, Margosgotthecargo showcased her mettle by delivering an exceptional performance. Despite starting from the seventh position, MacDonald expertly manoeuvred her into a winning position. As they approached the final turn, Margosgotthecargo surged forward, easily overtaking her competitors. With a commanding lead, she powered through the finish line, triumphing with a convincing 1-3/4 length margin. Monsoon (Roy) and Betternotmachme (Travis Cullen) secured second and third place finishes, respectively, but it was Margosgotthecargo who left a lasting impression.
Margosgotthecargo, an exciting three-year-old daughter of the illustrious Big Jim and the talented Sportswriter mare Maplelea, showcased her potential by securing her fourth career victory, an impressive feat considering she remains undefeated in all four of her starts. Bred and owned by the esteemed Andrew Moore, this exceptional filly has amassed a career bankroll of $29,400. Given her exceptional talent and undeniable charm, it is no wonder that Margosgotthecargo emerged as the heavily backed favourite, rewarding her supporters with a payout of $2.60 for a win.
The excitement continued with the $9,000 Pop Up Series divisions for fillies and mares, where MacDonald once again demonstrated his prowess. He partnered with Something Royal, trained by the skillful Cameron McQueen, to secure a victory in a time of 1:56. Additionally, MacDonald guided Hillbilly Jet, trained by the renowned Richard Moreau, to a well-deserved win in 1:54.1. The final triumph of the night came with Ready For Landing, trained by the talented Dominic Gladu, who soared to victory in 1:58.1.
Jody Jamieson, a formidable presence in the racing world, claimed victory in the second Pop Up Series split. He joined forces with Silly But Serious, a horse expertly trained by Shayne Barrington, to secure a victory in a time of 1:55. Not to be outdone, Doug McNair skillfully piloted Del Diggity, trained by the esteemed Garry Merner, to a thrilling win in the final split, crossing the finish line in 1:55.1.