by Ryan Hubbard, publicity department, Hoosier Park
Anderson, IN — Don Irvine, Jr. did not get the trip he wanted with Matoaka’s Warrior on Thursday (June 10) in the $11,000 Mini Series Final at Hoosier Park. However, he was quite impressed with the winning time of 1:564. Matoaka’s Warrior was one second off of the track record for three-year-old trotting colts.
“I did not intend for the race to go the way it did,” said Irvine. “However, I was very satisfied with the time of the race. It was only our third start this year.”
Everyone left the gate with quick intentions for the lead. Longshot Captain B J and driver Rick Reisert led the field into the first quarter in a blistering :273. The duo would continue that lead until early in the stretch after hitting the three-quarters in 1:272.
That’s when Matoaka’s Warrior came into the picture. But, he had his hands full with another longshot, My Golden Anne with owner-trainer-driver Brandon Bates. Those two hit the wire together with Irvine being victorious with the son of Elan Spur. My Golden Anne and Bates held on for second. Helen’s Priority and Don Eash held her position for third.
“I think the light wet track helped out with the quick fractions tonight,” said Irvine. “It was nice to see him trot the fast mile for not racing much.”
The win makes three in a row for Matoaka’s Warrior. In his last start at Hoosier Park, he found the winner’s circle, eclipsing the 2:00 mark for the first time in his short career.
Matoaka’s Warrior returned $4.40, $2.60, and $2.60. The three-year-old is trained by Arlid Eggen. Malin Kvist and Mary Ryan of Lexington, Kentucky own the brown colt.