Celestial Daybreak not ready for retirement yet

Retirement is looming, but evergreen pacer Celestial Daybreak (Dawn Ofa New Day) still has two more targets to reach before his harness racing career comes to an end.

Registering an overdue win in Port Pirie Sunday, Celestial Daybreak stretched his earnings to $193,600, which brings one target into play.

According to trainer Shane Loone the aim is to see the son of Dawn Ofa New Day pass $200,000 in earnings.

Notching his first success since last May – and 52nd overall – Celestial Daybreak faced the starter for the 391st time – with 400 outings the second target.

The 12-year-old also has 50 seconds and 40 thirds to his credit.

“He’s still going strong, is healthy and happy, so we’re pressing on,” Loone said. “This will be his last season, but there is no set date as to when he will be retired.

“As long as he is going well, he will keep racing…he will let us know when he is ready.

“Between now and then the aim is to break past $200,000 in stakes and 400 starts, which I can’t see any problem in him doing.”

With Corey Johnson in the cart during his latest appearance, Celestial Daybreak led throughout from the pole to cover the mile in 1:58.5 as Calculating Dancer and Boss Major filled the placings.

“He hasn’t won for a while, but has been his usual consistent self and paid his way,” Loone said. “I’ll keep racing him once a week around here and also go to Broken Hill in a few weeks as there is a suitable race for him which is $12,600.

“Other than that, we’ll take it one run at a time.”

For complete race results, click here.

From HRSA Media