The California Sire Stakes for the three-year-old pacers commenced last week, where Celebrity Status and Another Tuff Woman clinched victories in their respective £27,027 divisions.
Another Tuff Woman showcased her supremacy among the fillies, securing her first career win in a swift 1:58.4 over a 'good' track, leading by a remarkable 17 lengths. Guided by Plano, the filly is owned and bred by Alan and Cheryl Sandbulte, with training credits going to Jose Castillo.
Similarly, Celebrity Status made an impressive statement among the male pacers, surging from behind to claim a maiden-breaking triumph in 1:59.1. The favourite at 3-5 odds, Celebrity Status was handled by driver and trainer Nick Roland, representing Set The Pace Racing LLC.
A substantial pot of £420,000 is at stake for the three and four-year-old pacers in the Sire Stakes at this event, with two £50,000 Championship races scheduled for the finale on May 3.
As the competition unfolds this week, Jake Cutting has taken a commanding lead in the driver standings with 55 victories, surpassing Plano's 40 wins and James Kennedy's 39.
The race is tighter among the trainers, with Plano and Roland sharing the lead with 23 wins each. Darryl Cutting and Longo are closely trailing with 20 wins apiece, while Kathie Plested and Castillo follow suit with 18 and 17 victories, respectively.