Woodbine’s November 9 racing card, anticipated as one of the season’s highlights, was marked by a mix of spectacular performances and heartbreaking losses. On a sunny Toronto afternoon, fans enjoyed impressive races, but two tragic breakdowns on the Tapeta surface—including that of stakes winner Owen’s Tour Guide—halted the day’s excitement.
Owen’s Tour Guide, a six-year-old mare, suffered a fatal breakdown during the Grade 3 Bessarabian Stakes. Following her accident, horsepeople, jockeys, and track officials convened, leading to the cancellation of the final two races, including the Autumn Stakes, which was rescheduled for the following Saturday. Owned by Tequesta Racing and trained by William Armata, Owen’s Tour Guide had a notable career, including a recent win in the Zadracarta Stakes and earnings of $382,435.
Earlier in the day, Social Dancer, a maiden filly owned by C. Scott Abbott, also suffered a fatal breakdown in her third career start. She was racing along the rail when the incident occurred, leading to her euthanisation. Reports from horse-people further indicated that another young horse from Catherine Day Phillips’ barn had experienced a fatal breakdown during morning training. In response, Woodbine cancelled both Sunday morning training on the main track and Sunday afternoon racing.
Despite the sombre atmosphere, three fillies delivered standout performances on Saturday. Leading the way was EARHART (Fr), a highly anticipated Josie Carroll trainee. Purchased as a yearling for over $1.4 million, the three-year-old daughter of Siyouni (Fr) dominated the seven-furlong maiden race, cruising to victory by 6 3/4 lengths with an impressive 86 Beyer Speed Figure.
The final three races, all won by fillies from trainer Mark Casse’s barn, added to the excitement. Personal Pursuit, a $500,000 Tapit filly, returned from a layoff to win an allowance/optional claiming sprint, posting an 82 Beyer Figure. The Maple Leaf Stakes (G3) also featured thrilling moments, as ELYSIAN FIELD, the 2023 Champion 3-Year-Old Filly, charged through the field alongside Millie Girl. Leading jockey Sahin Civaci expertly manoeuvred Elysian Field, who claimed victory in a close finish, while Millie Girl, last year’s Maple Leaf Stakes winner, staged a strong late run.
Although Saturday brought memorable performances, the day was overshadowed by tragedy, highlighting the urgent need for continual improvements in equine safety and welfare.