Uhtred strikes back

Uhtred ended an agonizing spell of place and show finishes on Saturday night as the Art Major gelding captured the $36,000 Woodbine Mohawk Park harness racing Preferred Pace.

The Carmen Auciello trainee took the Campbellville track’s top class for the first time on Jan. 8 but missed in four straight tries before returning to the winner’s circle tonight.

Driver Jody Jamieson ordered the five-year-old forward off the car, and the pair quickly took command. He laid down a :28.4 first quarter before ceding command to Commanding Officer (Sylvain Filion), who cleared nearing the half in :56.1.

Uhtred continued in the pocket as Jimmy Freight (Louis-Philippe Roy) attacked Commanding Officer, following the dueling leaders to three-quarters in 1:24.1. Jimmy Frieght stalled turning for home, leaving Jamieson the room to right-line Uhtred into space. Uhtred was initially outpaced by Cold Creek Cabo (James MacDonald) and Beyond Better (Bob McClure), but the gelding found his best stride in the final 1/16th of a mile to soar past Commanding Officer and hold off Beyond Better for the victory.

Uhtred paid $7.60 to win, closing a half-length better than Beyond Better. Commanding Officer finished third.

The winner improved his career record to 10-for-25. Earl Hill Jr. of Ohsweken and Stephen Klunowski of North York own the 2020 Excelsior Final winner. The horse passed a quarter million in earnings with the win, bringing his total to $251,642.

For full race results, click here.

by Nicholas Barnsdale, for Harnesslink