Ontario-bred LAC MACAZA demonstrated significant potential upon entering the racing scene as a two-year-old in 2021, achieving an impressive three consecutive victories, including one in early 2022. Frank Meremenstein, co-owner and breeder of the Giant Gizmo – Garavogue Colleen gelding, along with trainer Julia Carey, briefly considered a run for the Queen’s Plate in 2022. However, they chose to transition him to turf, where he secured a strong third-place finish in the Breeders’ Stakes.
Despite a series of close finishes in subsequent races, Lac Macaza's fortunes changed dramatically when he was entered for a $25,000 claiming race last summer, where he returned to winning form. Fortunately for Meremenstein and co-owner Goldie Stable, the gelding remained unclaimed. This year, Lac Macaza has emerged as an enhanced competitor, culminating in his victory on September 7 in the $100,000 Niagara Overnight Stakes, piloted by apprentice Pietro Moran.
In a race characterised by a frenetic pace, with the first six furlongs covered in an impressive 1:10.71 over a 1 1/4 mile distance, Lac Macaza seized the opportunity to overtake the tiring leaders. He swept past Eyes on the King and race favourite Stone Age, establishing a lead into the stretch and fending off challenges from closers Stanley House and Palazzi. Stanley House managed to secure second place, despite an incident where he drifted outward and brushed against Palazzi, prompting an inquiry into the race's outcome. The final time on good turf was 2:01.10.
Notably, English Conqueror was scratched from the race due to a Lasix administration issue, while Paramount Prince was also scratched, having only been entered in case the race moved off the turf.
"This means the world," expressed Carey regarding Lac Macaza, who races for Goldie Stables and Mermenstein’s Discovery Racing. "He’s such a nice animal. Last year, we had a little bit of ups and downs with him, even ran him for 25 once. But he’s just getting better as he’s getting older."
With the Niagara Overnight win, Lac Macaza notched his seventh victory in 24 races and accounted for the eighth stakes win for trainer Carey. The gelding's career earnings now exceed $376,000, and he is the second foal of stakes-placed Garavogue Colleen, a daughter of Sligo Bay (Ire).
Saturday’s racing card unfolded on a blustery, cool afternoon, coinciding with the Greenwood Stakes day, a festive event at the new Homestretch Dining and Suites trackside.
Apprentice Moran showcased his talent further, securing three consecutive victories, bringing his total to 54 wins, placing him third in the leading rider standings behind Sahin Civaci and Rafael Hernandez. Another promising apprentice, Fraser Aebly, follows closely with 38 wins.
Among Moran's notable performances on Saturday was a last-to-first victory aboard Bail Us Out, who claimed a turf allowance/optional claiming race for Repole Stable of New York. This Lookin at Lucky colt, trained by Kevin Attard, had a challenging start to his career but thrived during his Woodbine debut, winning at 5-to-1.
On a concerning note, the Lasix administration error marked the second such incident in Ontario racing within a week. Previously, three horses were scratched from the first race at Ajax Downs due to a delay in Lasix administration. The senior steward’s report from Woodbine indicated that the English Conqueror’s Lasix error necessitated his eventual scratch, adhering to TB Rule 36.07 regarding proper administration timelines.
The stewards remained vigilant, addressing various issues. Newly-returned apprentice Micah Husbands faced a $500 fine for conduct involving fellow rider Jose Campos. Additionally, trainers Martin Drexler and Jim Ensom discussed a potential conflict of interest concerning Assistant Trainers, underscoring the importance of proper employment boundaries among racing personnel.
Overall, the day showcased both triumphs and challenges, reflecting the dynamic and sometimes tumultuous environment of the racing world.