On a thrilling Friday evening at Red Shores Racetrack and Casino, the $30,000 James “Roach” MacGregor Gold Cup & Saucer Consolation, presented by The Guardian, witnessed an exhilarating finish. In a blanket finish, New Brunswick-owned pacer Nuttin But Finesse emerged victorious. Driver Mike Downey expertly guided Nuttin But Finesse to a well-deserved win, making a strategic move past the five-eighths to secure the victory in 1:52.
Nuttin But Finesse, a seven-year-old son of Art Major and Nuttin But Trouble, notched his 34th career win and boosted his lifetime earnings to $382,237. Trainer Ellen Stevenson and owner Dr. Mitchell Downey of Saint John, N.B., celebrated the victory as Nuttin But Finesse crossed the finish line. The pacer paid $9.70 to win as the third wagering choice.
The evening also featured the $22,800 Lady Slipper Gold divisions for three-year-old pacing fillies. Howmac Magnificent, piloted by Ken Murphy, clinched victory in one of the splits, fending off a late challenge from Tobins Dream to win in 1:58.1. The undercard witnessed Mindbodyandsoul and Badgirl Bridgette sealing wins in the remaining divisions.
In the Grassroots divisions for sophomore pacing fillies, Molly Malone, Thelastartie, and Pop The Pin emerged victorious, showcasing their prowess on the track. The evening’s action continued with Bet On The Moon, Friar Voltaire, and Rock And Twist clinching wins in respective races, adding to the excitement of the night’s racing events.
Looking ahead to Saturday, the anticipation for the 66th edition of the $100,000 Gold Cup & Saucer, presented by Atlantic Lottery, was palpable. The Grade 3 Gold Cup & Saucer promised an electrifying showdown, with top contenders vying for the prestigious title.
Local driver Corey MacPherson eyed his first Gold Cup & Saucer title aboard morning line favorite Miki Shan N, while other contenders like Arbitrage Hanover, Fortify, and Its Major Major A added to the competitive field. The undercard boasted major stakes action, setting the stage for a thrilling night of racing at Red Shores Racetrack and Casino.
The action-packed evening featured various stakes races, including the Joe O’Brien Memorial, Birthplace Of Confederation Series final, and Premier’s Pace, among others. With a lineup of talented horses and skilled drivers, the Saturday program promised a spectacle for harness racing enthusiasts.
As the excitement mounted for the $100,000 Gold Cup & Saucer final, fans eagerly awaited the thrilling conclusion to Old Home Week. The rich history and tradition of the Gold Cup & Saucer added an extra layer of excitement to the evening’s events, making it a must-watch for harness racing fans across Canada.
With the stage set for an unforgettable night of racing, Red Shores Racetrack and Casino at the Charlottetown Driving Park geared up for a showcase of talent and speed. As harness racing enthusiasts prepared to witness the crowning of the Gold Cup & Saucer champion, the anticipation and energy in the air were palpable, promising a night to remember in Canadian harness racing history.
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