Shark Week is poised to dominate the upcoming Alberta Standardbred Horse Association (ASHA) Awards, celebrating the cream of the crop in Alberta's harness racing scene. With an exceptional track record, the son of Vertical Horizon - Shark Gone Bad, owned and trained by Rod Hennessy and Lorne Duffield, has had an outstanding season in 2023.
Last season, Shark Week achieved a remarkable 20-0-2 record from 24 starts, cementing his status as one of the most successful Standardbreds in the province. His winning streak continues, with an impressive 18 wins in his last 20 races. Even in the race he didn't win, equipment malfunctions were to blame.
Shark Week's 20 victories made him the winningest Standardbred on Canadian soil last year and the runner-up in North America, just behind Dunkin, who notched 21 wins in 40 appearances. Shark Week's dominance extended to breaking track records at every turn, setting new benchmarks wherever he raced.
The standout moment came when Shark Week shattered the 1:50 barrier with a blazing 1:49.2 mile at the Balzac Oval, becoming the first horse to achieve this feat in Alberta. His incredible performances continued at Century Mile, where he set new track records with each race, culminating in a current all-age track standard of 1:50.2.
With unparalleled success in Alberta, Shark Week is a top contender for ASHA's divisional and Horse of the Year honours. His trainer, Hennessy, acknowledges the rarity of a horse like Shark Week, highlighting the challenges of maintaining such a high-calibre competitor in the racing industry.
Despite the temptation of competing in other regions, Hennessy prefers to keep Shark Week local, focusing on the vibrant racing scene in Alberta. While this approach may limit national exposure, the team remains committed to showcasing Shark Week's prowess on home turf.
As discussions around potential travel plans for Shark Week in 2024 arise, Hennessy remains pragmatic, prioritising the horse's well-being and local engagements. Despite the lack of recognition in national awards, the team's dedication to Shark Week's success remains unwavering, setting the stage for another stellar season ahead.