by Bruce Murray, media/communications, the Woodbine Entertainment Group

Toronto, ON — Western Gem simply sparkled in capturing the C$56,600 final of the Apaches Fame Series for three-year-old pacing colts on a damp Friday evening at Woodbine.

Driven by Tony Kerwood, the dark bay Rambaran gelding took dead aim at leader Pokagon (Mario Baillargeon) and finally wore him down steps from the wire to earn the decision in a lifetime best of 1:53¹. Warrawee Flash took home third, two and a half lengths back.

It was the second straight win in the series and third in five starts this year for Western Gem, trained by co-owner Dennis Nadon of Cottam, Ontario for his partner Ken Robertson of Allen Park, Michigan.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better (trip). That just worked up perfect,” said Kerwood, who followed the cover of Rocketboy to the top of the stretch. “We came up quick on Mario’s colt (Pokagon) and I thought we were going to go right on by, but Mario’s colt raced real tough too, right to the wire.”

Kerwood, who has driven Western Gem’s sire, Rambaran, for most of his brilliant million dollar career, was asked about any possible similarities between father and son.

“There are similarities,” noted Kerwood. “This colt likes to pass horses and win races just like his dad. I believe you’re going to hear quite a bit from (Rambaran’s offspring).”

The winner’s spoils of $21,508 more than doubled Western Gem’s career earnings in ten starts to $37,330. He could be back on track at Mohawk in one week’s time for the start of the Youthful Series on April 2.

Sent off at odds just shy of 8-1, Western Gem returned $17.60 to win and topped a $301.60 triactor.