Vancouver, B.C. (June 2/18) – Over the years owner Peter Redekop has made more trips to the winner’s circle at Hastings Racecourse than even he can remember.

But there seemed to be something a little special going on in Mr. Redekop’s mind Saturday when he was the last to leave the celebration area following Toni Ann’s Miracle victory in the $50,000 Emerald Downs Handicap.  He stood alone, his trophy and traditional victory flower bouquet in hand, watching the re-run of the race for 3-year-old fillies on the jumbo screen.  Not once, but twice.

“I’m liking what I see,” Redekop said quietly. “This is one fine looking filly.”

It was Toni Ann’s Miracle first start at Hastings after Redekop’s racing manager Dr. Brian Anderson purchased the horse privately six weeks ago at Gulfstream Park.  Toni Ann’s Miracle, under trainer Phil Hall at Hastings, instantly won the favor of local fans with an impressive four and one quarter length victory in a final time of 1:17.19 over six and a half furlongs. It was the first of back-to-back wins for Amadeo Perez, who heads into Sunday’s racing card with 14 on the season.

When Redekop eventually returned to his table in Silks Restaurant, he was informed that another talented 3-year-old filly in his stable – Assemble – had won Saturday’s feature at Emerald Downs.

Enjoying an equal amount of fun on the day was owner/trainer Barb Heads.  She scored a training natural hat trick with Sunset Drive in the 4th, Lucky Ending in the 5th and Gold Girl in the 6th.. Barb owns Gold Girl; Sunset Drive and Lucky Ending are owned by Mr. & Mrs. R.J. Bennett.

Live racing resumes at Hastings Sunday when Redekop gets yet another opportunity to visit the winner’s circle with Argosy Fleet running in the $50,000 River Rock Casino Handicap for 3-year-olds.  The morning line favourite – Weekend Wizard – winner of the Jim Coleman Province on May 5,- is listed at 4-5 running for Riversedge Racing Stables and trainer Craig MacPherson.

Start time Sunday is 1:50 p.m.

 

For more information:

 

Darren MacDonald

dmacdonald@hastingsracecourse.com