In an exciting display of harness racing, Phoenix (Deweycheatumnhowe) secured a victory in the Flamboro Downs Preferred Trot on Saturday, showing resilience throughout the race at odds of 5-1. The gelding faced intense competition from the outset, engaging in a fierce battle with Southwind Domino (driven by Daryl Thiessen) around the first turn. After a determined effort, Phoenix gained the lead before reaching the quarter mark in a time of 28.1 seconds, with Jean-Bernard Renaud at the reins. However, his lead was challenged again at the half-mile mark, where the favourite, Tusan Prince (piloted by Paul Mackenzie), surged from third place, drawing neck-and-neck with Phoenix as they approached the third turn, passing three-quarters in 1:26.1.
As the race continued, Phoenix demonstrated tenacity, reclaiming the lead as they entered the homestretch. Although Tusan Prince maintained his challenge, joined by Southwind Domino in the final moments, Phoenix managed to hold off his competitors, winning by a narrow head with a final time of 1:56.3. Tusan Prince finished in second, followed closely by Southwind Domino.
With this victory, Phoenix solidified his recent form, having won four of his last five races, including three at Woodbine Mohawk Park. Under the care of trainer Julie Walker, the seven-year-old gelding has compiled a career record of 26 wins in 162 starts, accruing earnings of $299,544. Meanwhile, Austin Sorrie enjoyed a standout performance, driving four winners on the nine-race card. Racing at Flamboro Downs is set to continue on Sunday, December 22, at 6:55 p.m. EST.