Driver Jody Jamieson is optimistic about the future of Paquet, his three-year-old trotting colt, as they prepare for the $2.4 million Ontario Sires Stakes (OSS) Super Finals on Saturday, October 12, at Woodbine Mohawk Park. Paquet, fresh from a dominant 1:53.1 victory in the OSS Gold race, is the clear favourite for the $300,000 final for sophomore trotting colts.
Unraced as a two-year-old due to a tendon injury, Paquet's early career was uncertain. Jamieson and his father Carl, who co-owns and trains Paquet, took their time to heal the colt’s injury, using careful rehabilitation techniques. After months of recovery, Paquet debuted in March, winning by 10 lengths.
Though another injury sidelined him, Paquet returned stronger, winning a track-record-setting race at Grand River Raceway. Jamieson recalls being confident in Paquet’s potential early on, which led him to name the horse after their late partner, Brian Paquet, who never got to see the colt race.
As Paquet approaches the Super Finals, Jamieson and his team are considering future races, including the Breeders Crown. With just six career starts, Paquet continues to impress his driver with every race, making Jamieson excited about the colt’s future.
For now, they’re focused on Saturday’s Super Final, where Paquet has a chance to make more memorable strides in his young career.