Teamwork makes the dream work

American Sniper (Western Terror) gave cover to Ladner Lad as the pair rolled from second-last and last to a one-two finish for harness racing trainer Francis Guillemette in the first race at Flamboro Downs on Wednesday (Oct. 5).

Starting from the inside two posts, they dropped back and trailed to the quarter in :28.4. American Sniper took the initiative and tipped first-up for Travis Cullen, shortly followed by Ladner Lad (Colin Kelly) as they neared the first turn.

Mister Dg (Steve Hudon) pulled out in front of them and provided cover to for American Sniper to the half in :59.3 and three-quarters in 1:29.4. American Sniper pulled the three-wide trigger entering the final quarter and surged to the top in an instant. He then carried his momentum into a five-and-a-quarter-length victory in 1:57.1.

Ladner Lad, abandoned by his stablemate on the far turn, fought on to beat Malvolio (Scott Coulter) on the line for second.

AMERICAN SNIPER REPLAY

American Sniper is now 12-for-122 lifetime with a bankroll of $85,198. Guillemette also co-owns the seven-year-old gelding with Michael Damphousse of Ste-Ursule and Marc Laflamme of Trois-Rivieres.

Guillemette is in the midst of a breakout season. He has nearly doubled his career win total with 37 from 206 starts so far this year.

Flamboro Downs continues action on Thursday, Oct. 6 at 6:35 p.m. EDT.

For complete race results, click here.

by Nicholas Barnsdale, for Harnesslink