San Pail Matchless as Best Trotter
Having already established himself as one of the best, if not the best, trotter in North America, San Pail was up against international competition at the Breeders Crown Open Trot held at Woodbine in Canada this past weekend, and went on to prove that he has what it takes to defend to compete on all levels. Delighted with the win, driver Randy Waples was reported as saying that San Pail is just an unbelievable horse. The seven-year-old gelding made his 107th lifetime start with the race and had been competing against the same field throughout the year, showing his remarkable determination, form and endurance. Foreign horses, Commander Crowe and Rapide Lebel, provided an additional challenge for San Pail, and he proved more than up to the task at hand.
Swedish-trained Commander Crowe and French-trained Rapide Lebel arrived in Toronto during last week, overcoming obstacles of quarantine regulations, potential date and timing conflicts on racing calendars and the exorbitant costs of moving horses from one country to another. While invitations to compete in the prestigious Breeders Crown are extended to foreign horses each year, it is rare to have two of the best European trotters accept the invitation, and excitement was at fever pitch leading up to the race. With Rapide Lebel finishing in second place, and Commander Crowe in third, it was clear that San Pail had tough competition to beat.
Define the World was the first away as the race began, but Waples and San Pail made an early move to grab the front spot, with Rapide Lebel moving right up behind and Commander Crowe moving into third place. It was clear at this point that the race was between these three tough contenders, with San Pail winning by a neck over Rapide Lebel, completing the mile in 1:51.4.
San Pail’s victory was met with much enthusiasm from the crowd, confirming that he has a loyal following wishing him well. This was San Pail’s 49th career win, with earnings of $965,250 for 2011. Owned by Glenn Van Camp and Rodney Hughes, with the latter being his trainer, San Pail will return to race as an eight-year-old next year – and no doubt his growing fan-base will continue to support him.
