by Mark McKelvie, WEG Communications

Toronto, ON — The classy pacing mare Waasmula found the winner’s circle for the first time in 2017 and the 30th time of her career Friday night (Feb. 17) at Woodbine Racetrack. The 9-year-old daughter of Million Dollar Cam converted off a second-over trip from driver Trevor Henry to win this week’s top class for pacing mares in 1:51.3.

New Image Media photo

Bill McLinchey, Senior Manager of Racing, presents Waasmula’s owner Brent Vincent (L), trainer Bruce Goit (R) and driver Trevor Henry with a sign following her victory Friday.

Friday’s victory was extra special for Waasmula, as it was the Bruce Goit trainee’s first win since surpassing C$1 million in career earnings on Jan. 27 at Woodbine.

Bred and owned by Brent Vincent Waasmula was making the 131st start of her career Friday and fourth of her 9-year-old season. Last year, she won seven of 28 starts while banking over C$293,000.

Waasmula has been competing regularly in the top classes for pacing mares on the Woodbine Entertainment circuit since 13 days after capturing the Ontario Sires Stakes Super Final for 3-year-old pacing fillies back in Nov. of 2011.

The Vincent homebred’s career totals now sit at 30 wins, C$1,016,038 earned and a mark of 1:49.2. She paid $7.30 to win.

In recognition of recently surpassing C$1 million in career earnings, Waasmula and her connections were presented with a sign from the Woodbine Entertainment Group following her victory Friday.

While Waasmula won the C$25,000 feature race Friday, leading driver Doug McNair continued to add to his impressive early season totals. The Guelph, Ont. resident picked up three more victories Friday to give him 47 this season at Woodbine. McNair now has a 26-win lead over nearest rival Louis Philippe Roy, who won two races Friday.

McNair will look to grow his lead on Saturday (Feb. 18), as he is scheduled to drive in all 10 races. Post time is 7:30 p.m