Future driving stars in mini horse races

Clinton Raceway played host to Young Guns miniature horse races on Sunday, August 21st. The next generation of harness racing driving stars lined up for two races at the Huron County oval.

The first Young Guns race saw Silver and 7-year-old Axl McClure hold off all challengers in a close photo finish win. McClure teamed up with Clinton Raceway regular Dustin McClure to guide the white miniature horse to the winner’s circle.

A field of three lined up to contest the second Young Guns race for experienced contestants. Driver Travis Moore sent mini horse Wally on a front-end mission to win by open lengths in the quarter mile race. Drivers Chase Graham and Lucas House rounded out the top 3. The trio will be a force to be reckoned with on the Ontario Racing circuit in the near future.

In addition to the Young Guns races, Clinton Raceway welcomed 2-year-old colt pacers for Prospect Series action.

Heavy favourite Marshall Zhukov (Shadow Play) did not disappoint by winning his third straight Prospect Series division. Driver Mario Baillargeon left from post position 6 and settled into an open pocket spot.

Baillargeon pulled the pocket and went around stablemate Olczyk just before the quarter mile mark. Marshall Zhukov enjoyed a soft middle half before sprinting home in 29.1 to capture the $7,100 event. Olczyk and Pebble Beach Pro rounded out the top 3.

The Mario Baillargeon trainee has banked $15,800 in just five career starts, while visiting the winner’s circle four times.

Clinton Raceway is back in action on Sunday, August 28th for Memorial Day. Racing action gets underway at 1:30 PM.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Elliott, for Clinton Raceway