"It's a tremendous honour. This is the third time we've got this. It's rare in the big scheme to win that thing three times and she's been special"
—Trainer Don Beatson shared ensuing the 2023 O'Brien Awards ceremony.
Beatson's cherished racehorse, So Much More, bred in the picturesque Prince Edward Island, continues to impress as she competes against Canada's top older pacing mares. The distinguished mare received a resounding ovation from the crowd as her name echoed through the halls of the 2023 O'Brien Awards in Charlottetown. This marked the third time in her illustrious career that she claimed divisional honours, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Reflecting on the event, the seasoned 82-year-old Ontario horseman, Don Beatson, shared his excitement about the prestigious gathering being held in P.E.I., acknowledging how it elevated the ambience to new heights. "It meant the world to us. Winning one of these accolades is no small feat. We are bubbling with excitement every single time," he expressed.
During her remarkable seven-year-old campaign in 2023, So Much More showcased her prowess with 13 victories and 10 top-three finishes out of 33 starts. This remarkable performance marked her fifth consecutive season with a double-digit win count, solidifying her title as 'Canada's Pacing Queen.' The tenacious mare fearlessly competed against both male and female horses, emerging victorious over the boys on multiple occasions. Additionally, So Much More triumphed in the Forest City Pace at The Raceway at Western Fair District and dominated eight Fillies & Mares Preferred races at Woodbine Mohawk Park. Throughout the season, her winnings amounted to an impressive $357,992, contributing to her million-dollar bankroll, while also setting a new lifetime mark of 1:49.1.
In an interview with Standardbred Canada, Beatson lavished praise upon So Much More for her remarkable endurance and longevity. He also expressed his gratitude for sharing this extraordinary journey with his family and co-owners, including his son, Kenn Beatson, his grandson, Cole England, esteemed breeder Doug MacPhee, and skilled driver James MacDonald.