Shark Gesture swallows rivals in Canadian Pacing Derby

Shark Gesture, driven by George Brennan, equalled the track record of 1:48.1, while wiring nine rivals in the prestigious $685,000 Canadian Pacing Derby Saturday evening at Mohawk Racetrack.

 

With the afternoon scratch of speedster Shadow Play, the morning line 5-2 second choice, due to sickness, the complexion of the race changed dramatically and Brennan, leaving from the nine-hole with the 6-1 shot, took full advantage.

 

Shark Gesture, who earlier in the year had captured the William Haughton at The Meadowlands in similar fashion, blazed an opening quarter in 26 seconds, before getting to the half in 53 seconds flat, while being chased by first Art Official, then favourite Won the West, who had moved outside to challenge the leader before the half but remained parked throughout.

 

After putting away Won the West, Shark Gesture turned it on, reaching the three-quarters in 1:20.3 and opening several lengths on the finest older pacers on the continent. From there, it was clear sailing, as the six-year-old son of champion Cams Card Shark reached the wire two lengths in front of closers Bettor Sweet and defending champion Mister Big.

 

“He’s been doing it his whole career,” said Brennan. “Every year, except the year he stood stud, of course. At two, three, four and now. He’s tough as nails. To get him on the front like that, it takes a real good one to pass him. That’s what he likes.

 

“It was a surprise (to get the drive),” continued Brennan, who replaced regular driver Tim Tetrick for trainer Gordon Remmen. “Timmy’s been doing very well with him. But if Shark Gesture’s out there for anybody, I’ll take him.”

 

With the $342,500 purse to the winner, Shark Gesture upped his career bankroll to over $1.9 million, while winning his 19th race. He joined a Canadian Pacing Derby winners roster which includes such recent champions as Lis Mara, Art Major, Real Desire, Gallo Blue Chip and Western Ideal.

 

As the fourth choice behind 6-5 favourite Won the West, who backed up to finish eighth, Shark Gesture paid $15.60, $8.90 and $6, combining with Bettor Sweet ($7, $5) for a $99.70 (9-6) exactor. A 9-6-5 (Mister Big, $4.60 to show) triactor fashioned a $796 payoff, while a $1 Superfecta [9-6-5-1 (Silent Swing)] was worth $4,301.55. (WEG)