Nearctic Stakes – Grade II
6 Furlongs Turf Stake Purse $250.000 Open 3 Year Olds And Up.

1st = Freak Storm, trained by Mo Mentum Farm
Though this one didnt have any obvious form to go on i had mentioned the fact that a wide draw in his last two starts had put paid to his winning chances in those and that he had a much better chance from this inside draw. A winner on easy ground he certainly welcomed the rain too and add those facts to him being a three year old and he certainly looked better than his odds suggested. Settling midpack he dug deep and managed to dead heat for the win putting him into the BC Sprint, any rain at DMR and he would look a very attractive proposition.

1st = Engaging, trained by Mb Stables
Another that looked to enjoy the softer ground he came from further back and pushed all the way to the line to force the dead heat. He failed in last years BC Turf Sprint and has struggled with the other four year olds this year but as things equal out between the ages he looks to be hitting top form at the right time.

3rd Canadian Folk, trained by Team 7 Illusions
You cannot fault this filly who nearly performed the impossible by leading at the furlong pole but she just got out muscled by the boys close home. Arguably the best sprinting three year old turf filly at HRP it will be interesting to see her against her own sex.

4th Mr Plucky, trained by Hambletonian Stables
Trying to make it five wins in a row he was on the speed from the wide gate but as usual when that happens he was found wanting in the final furlong. A decent run by an improving four year old a better draw next time will see him right in it again.

Categories: STAKES ARTICLES