by Gary Patterson, for Dresden Raceway

Dresden, ON — The rain stayed away and the people were out in droves at Dresden Raceway on Sunday (June 7) for the 2015 opening day. More than 800 people enjoyed a great day of harness racing action with tons of giveaways throughout the day.

Robert Sparling Jr. was the star of the day as he made four trips to the winner’s circle.

Sparling scored his first winner in the fifth race while at the controls of Decroft Blast. The 3-year-old Astronomical colt is owned by Clarence Dekens and is trained by Randy Marriage. He paced the mile in 1:58.1.

Sparling’s second win of the day was with Comeback Matt in the seventh race as he guided the 7-year-old Royal Mattjesty gelding home in 2:00.2 for owner Jim Napper and trainer Cathy Gaudreau.

Blissfullannmarie was Sparling’s third winner in the ninth race for owner Don Wilkins and trainer Cathy Gaudreau. The 4-year-old Blissfull Hall mare paced in 2:02.2.

The Gaudreau trained and Napper owned Primary Pick proved to be Sparling’s fourth winner in the 10th race. The 4-year-old Rambaran mare paced to victory in 2:00.4.

Nick Steward scored three winners on the day at Dresden Raceway.

The handle was $17,834.