REXDALE, ON — Mikestory got a text book drive from Bill Megens at Woodbine Racetrack on Monday night to capture her first Gold Series Final and bring rival Independent Woman’s win streak to a halt at four.
Megens settled Mikestory in fourth spot on the rail and watched as Nomireatras and Independent Woman battled through a :28.4 opening quarter. Heading for the halfway marker Megens sent Mikestory up the outside and had gained the lead before the infield timer flashed :59.2. The duo led the field past a 1:29.4 three-quarters and held off Clarice Marie through the stretch to post the 2:00.3 victory by half a length.
Clarice Marie and Tom Durand closed sharply to finish second and fan favourites Independent Woman and Wayne Henry held on for third, with Wescott and Nomireatras hot on their heels.
Troy resident Megens bred, owns and trains Mikestory, who improved her record to four wins and two seconds in six starts with earnings of $143,341.
Two races before Mikestory impressed Woodbine fans 10 fillies who failed to qualify for the Gold Final competed in the $30,000 Gold Consolation.
Snazzy Millie got a wire-to-wire trip from Post 8 and never faced a challenge en route to the 2:00.2 victory. George Zirnis of Elmira trains and drives the Royal Strength daughter for his partners Dennis Fairall of Windsor, and breeders Terry Devos and Clarence Devos of Langton.
Favourite Psychic Image and Oaklea Lizzy trotted into second and third behind Snazzy Millie.
The two-year-old trotting fillies make their third start in Gold Series action on Aug. 21 at Rideau Carleton Raceway. Ontario Sires Stakes action returns to Woodbine Racetrack on Friday when the three-year-old pacing fillies compete for $130,000 in their fourth Gold Final.