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Windsong dominates in Wellwood final

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September 17, 2007

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Windsong Espoir turned in another dominating performance and equaled his own Canadian record with a 1:55.3 victory in winning the $533,700(C) William Wellwood Memorial final for 2-year-old colt and gelding trotters Sunday at Mohawk Racetrack.

Steve Condren guided the son of Kadabra-Diamond Image to his fourth straight victory after finishing third in his debut race back on August 16th.

In Sunday's contest, the colt floated off the wings and got in line fourth through a :28.1 opening quarter. At that point, Condren brought him to the outside and charged to the front just before the :57 first half. Once in control, Windsong Espoir cruised through three-quarters of 1:26.3 and then extended his advantage in the stretch with a :29 final panel.

B Strike Three came on to pick up second and Surtees Hanover, who raced first-over for much of the final half, held on for the show spot.

"The track was a bit off for him tonight, I had to watch him a little bit" said Condren. "I was extra careful with him. I just wanted to get him near the front and he proved himself tonight. I can't say enough about Brad and his crew, and it makes my job a lot easier. He's rounding into form for the fall, hopefully he finishes up strong for next year."

Maxwell said afterwards that the colt will only have a handful of starts remaining this season.

"This colt trotted in 1:55 last week, and he came back to do it again,"added Maxwell. "He's a professional. He has the two Gold finals-here and Windsor-and then the Super Final. He's not eligible to the Hambletonian, but he has the Breeders Crown next year. It will be up to the ownership group."

Windsong Espoir elevated his seasonal bankroll to more than $350,000 for owners Peter Heffering, Jerry Vanboekel, William Loyens and the Hope Stable of Ontario.

Earlier in the night, Maxwell sent out Flower Lane in the Oakville final, but it was evident early on that the filly was in distress as she finished last and was barely able to finish the race.

"Steve said she didn't go into the gate aggressively like she normally does," said Maxwell. "She had a heart fibrillation, but she's going to be OK." (WEG)

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