Paramount Prince Makes a Comeback, Wright and Drexler Shine in Canadian Racing Scene

The triumph of the King's Plate champion takes centre stage as the calendar turns to March 10 at Gulfstream. Meanwhile, Canadian contenders continue their winning streak, creating a buzz in Barbados and beyond at Horseracing Journeys.

Over at Woodbine, the backstretch has now reopened, with the training track bustling with activity and the primary Tapeta track scheduled to commence on March 11. Despite several stables still residing south of the border, anticipation builds as one of the brightest equine stars of 2023 gears up for his 4-year-old debut this Sunday in Florida.

Paramount Prince, the victor of the King's Plate, owned by Mike Langlois and Gary Barber, makes a notable appearance. The chestnut gelding, under the tutelage of trainer Mark Casse, has been diligently honing his skills on the Tapeta surface at Gulfstream Park. Jockey Irad Ortiz will guide Paramount Prince from the advantageous post 1 position in a challenging field that includes the likes of Sir For Sure, winner of the 2022 Breeders’ Stakes. The race, the 9th on Sunday, promises an electrifying spectacle.

In other racing news, a contingent of Canadians and Woodbine-affiliated horse enthusiasts recently ventured to Barbados for the prestigious 41st Sandy Lane Gold Cup (G1), ultimately claimed by Portfolio Company, owned by Gay Smith. Noteworthy performances included Woodbine's Pat'ssewingmachine, expertly piloted by jockey Rocco Bowen to a commendable third place under the guidance of trainer Ted Holder.

Adding to the excitement, Woodbine jockey Eswan Flores demonstrated his prowess with two victories out of five mounts for trainer Jean Marc Cozier. The Canadian horse racing showcase, Horseracing Journeys, played a pivotal role in amplifying interest in the Gold Cup through engaging content and captivating videos over the past fortnight. Notably, the post-Gold Cup Beach Crew episode, featuring Woodbine's track announcer Robert Geller, provided further insights into the thrilling event.

Amidst the season's action, trainer Mike Wright celebrated his third victory at the Tampa Bay Downs meeting as H C Holiday, owned by Gina Wright, surged to a commanding win in a $10,000 claiming race, crossing the finish line 3 1/2 lengths ahead under the guidance of rider Ademar Santos. Additionally, Norm Mcknight clinched his third win of the winter as Happymac triumphed in a $ 10,000-claiming race at Oaklawn over the weekend.

Across the Atlantic, Martin Drexler continues to dominate at Gulfstream, with his stable securing a remarkable five wins from the last 14 runners. Notably, the seasoned campaigner Sand Dancer claimed victory in a $10,000-claiming race on Feb. 24, marking Drexler's 700th career win. The nine-year-old gelding, a stakes winner and Grade 2 placed for breeder Sea Gull Capital, has been a standout performer since joining the Drexler barn.

In a separate feat, C C Royal, a promising Ontario-bred 3-year-old filly by Flatter, delivered an impressive performance at Laurel Park on March 3. Trained by Hamilton Smith and owned by Mens Grille Stable, C C Royal notched a victory in a competitive 7-furlong optional claiming/allowance race, showcasing her talent with an 81 Beyer Speed Figure. Bred by Windways Farm, the filly has displayed her prowess by winning 2 out of 5 races, with a notable third-place finish in the Xtra Heat Stakes, highlighting her potential in the racing landscape.