Entwistle leads the way in opening leg of Woodbine’s Turf Endurance Series

The innovative points-based series will see competitors accumulate points over four races run at extended distances on Woodbine’s world-renowned E.P. Taylor Turf Course. The horse that has accumulated the most points at the conclusion of the four races will be crowned the Woodbine Turf Endurance Series Champion.

Entwistle showed stamina and determination under jockey Patrick Husbands to win the series opener competed at 1 3/8-miles on the Woodbine green. It was Hemmin and Hawin who led the field through steady splits of :50.69, 1:15.21 and 1:39.24 with Tonedaddy and Sine Metu keeping close watch.

Hampstead Heath duelled to the lead at the top of the lane but was soon met by a bevy of challengers including Tesseron, Supreme Commander and the relentless Entwistle. The winner, angled off the rail for the stretch run, found his best stride late and had plenty in reserve to hold off Supreme Commander. Entwistle stopped the clock in 2:15.89.

Entwistle, a five-year-old son of Strut the Stage bred in Ontario by Kingview Farms, banked $32,400 in victory. He also picked up 10 points to take the early lead in the series. Supreme Commander earned 7 points for finishing second; Tesseron earned 5 points for landing third; Hampstead Heath won 3 points for finishing fourth; Tonedaddy, in fifth, secured two points; while Sine Metu and Hemmin and Hawin earned one point each.

The next three legs of the Turf Endurance Series will see the need for stamina increase with races slated on August 19 (1 1/2-miles), September 23 (1 5/8-miles) and October 22 (2 1/4-miles).

The horse with the most points after running all races will win the title Woodbine Turf Endurance Series Champion and receive a $15,000 bonus as well as a trophy honouring the accomplishment. All legs of the Turf Endurance Series are open to any horse with preference given to horses with the most points.