Seeking Salvation gives Thomson elusive win

John Thomson recorded his first win as a trainer since 2012 as he guided Seeking Salvation (Merchadiser) to a maiden-breaking harness racing victory on Thursday (Sep. 1) at Woodbine Mohawk Park.

Lady Montague (Bob McClure) led to the quarter in :28.1 before Thomson, steering Seeking Salvation, hauled her out of the three-hole to follow second-over cover just before the half in :58.4.

Seeking Salvation’s cover cleared to the top on the backstretch, but she continued climbing into the final turn and took command at three-quarters in 1:28.2. The filly then cruised to completion and was four lengths to the good as she stopped the clock in 1:58.1.

American Blizz K (Adam Hamilton) rallied for place over Lady Montague.

SEEKING SALVATION REPLAY

Seeking Salvation, who has been trained by Thomson since her debut, was previously winless in 18 starts. She has now earned $27,844 for owner Carla Selig of Peterborough.

Thomson had not won as a trainer in his 108 starts since Nov. 29, 2012. He won with Northern All Star on that day. He has racked up 484 wins in 3,771 career training starts. He has tasted victory as a driver three times this season and has totaled 1,517 victories since his debut in 1982.

Jody Jamieson was the evening’s top driver with three wins.

The track celebrated National Caretaker Appreciation Day. Winning grooms received ribbons and gift baskets, and prize draws were conducted throughout the evening.

Two-year-old pacing fillies contesting their fourth Ontario Sires Stakes Gold leg highlight the next card at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Friday, Sep. 2.

For complete race results, click here.

by Nicholas Barnsdale, for Harnesslink