Marcus Melander-trained Maryland's incredible victory

MILTON, August 24, 2024 – Marcus Melander-trained Maryland (Chapter Seven) pulled off a stunning upset, leaving from post 9 and securing a dominant 1:53.4 victory in the $575,000 William Wellwood Memorial at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Saturday night (Aug. 24).

Maryland charged to the lead early and settled onto the rail, clocking a :28.1 first quarter before yielding to Emoticon Legacy, who powered to the front from the fourth. Emoticon Legacy controlled the pace through a :57.2 half, with no significant threats emerging around the final turn.

Even-money favourite Nordic Catcher S launched a first-over bid from third, gradually closing in on the leader as they approached three-quarters in 1:26.1. Meanwhile, Maryland found a seam on the inside and, once clear in the stretch, unleashed a powerful burst of speed. In a few quick strides, Maryland opened up a widening lead, finishing 4-3/4 lengths ahead of the field.

Nordic Catcher S held on for second, while 130-1 longshot Southwind Caspian saved ground throughout to finish third, with Emoticon Legacy fading to fourth.

“He was really good last week in his elimination but struggled a bit in the last turn,” said winning driver Dexter Dunn. “Marcus [Melander] made some gear changes, and he was so much better tonight. I could tell he was ready behind the gate. Even from the outside post, I thought we’d give it a shot. He got across well and found a good trip behind Louis [Roy and Emoticon Legacy]. He won pretty easily and finished really strong.”

Owned by Courant Inc., PCW Racing LLC, Holly Lane Stud East Ltd, and S. Stewart R. Thorn Stable, Maryland secured his second win from five starts, boosting his earnings to $311,743.

"From day one, he’s been a smart colt," said Melander. "We knew he was a good horse after his first start. He raced well last week, but had some trouble in the turns. We made adjustments to keep him straight, and he was sharp heading into the final. I want to keep him on bigger tracks to avoid those issues in the turns.”

As the fourth choice in the betting, Maryland returned $36.50 to win.