Brandon Campbell crossed the finish line two lengths ahead in Saturday’s $107,030 Western Canada Pacing Derby at Century Mile, with Grey Horizon securing his sixth consecutive victory. However, the win brought more relief than celebration for Campbell, who had a rough day with his other horses, including a disappointing performance from Over Ice in the $131,720 Century Casino Filly Pace.
"I wasn’t happy, just relieved," Campbell said. "My other horses struggled, and I wasn’t confident, even though Grey Horizon was the clear favourite."
Campbell credited his father for helping him refocus before the Derby. Grey Horizon, who has won 13 of 21 career starts, took command after a well-paced race and eased to victory.
"The track was deep and sticky," Campbell noted. "On a faster track, he could pace a much quicker mile."
There has been speculation about Grey Horizon being sold, with interest from New York’s Kellogg Racing Stables, but a decision will come after the Alberta Sires Stakes Super Final on November 2.
In the Century Casino Filly Pace, favourite Outlawguns N Roses overcame a scare when she drifted wide entering the stretch, but still won by 4-1/2 lengths. Trainer Rod Starkewski praised driver Dave Kelly for keeping her on track. Outlawguns N Roses has now won 10 of 12 starts this year, solidifying her reputation as an incredible filly.
With one more stakes race to go, Campbell and his team will focus on wrapping up the season before making any further decisions.