by Greg Gangle, WEG media

Toronto, ON — Pretty Crafty, a 3-year-old daughter of Here Comes Herbie-Appleby Dreambelle, will look for her third straight victory on Thursday evening (Dec. 15) at Woodbine when she takes to the track in the C$60,000 Autumn Stakes final.

Driven by Mario Baillargeon for his brother, conditioner Ben Baillargeon, the three-time winner has had her fair share of issues this summer. The veteran driver is happy to see her fortunes have turned around.

New Image Media photo

Pretty Crafty has banked $64,033 in her sophomore campaign.

“She started out this season on a good note,” said Mario Baillargeon. “She finished second in the first (Ontario Sires Stakes) Gold elimination at Western Fair, then she made a break in the final. It was always behind the gate. She was so tough to handle going to the gate that she would make a break.”

After a couple of unsuccessful starts, the decision was made to give Pretty Crafty the summer months off in preparation for the winter.

“My brother (Ben) decided to turn her out for a few months, so she could grow up a little. We brought her back in the fall and we took the hobbles off her and she’s been much better, especially behind the gate.”

Looking ahead to Thursday’s final, Mario remains confident in his charge.

“There is no reason why she shouldn’t be in the top three. The other elimination winner (First Flower) raced well last week, too. It will come down to the trip, but my horse has some terrific breeding, so hopefully that will show, too.”

Pretty Crafty, a career winner of $82,069 for owner/breeder Richard Thompson, Robert Watson and Mike Bartram, is a half-sister to Digital Image ($587,988).

While the brothers believe better days are ahead for Pretty Crafty, their focus is on the Autumn.

“Ben and I both think that this filly is only going to get better and stronger next season. She’s just a nice sized horse who’s very handy. She’s definitely going in the right direction to have a good couple of years. But, right now, we will just worry about Thursday.”

With both brothers hoping an uneventful start will lead to a memorable finish.