TORONTO, September 6, 2025 – Haunted Dream (IRE), making his North American debut, enjoyed a dream trip on his way to victory in Saturday’s $150,000 HPIbet Singspiel Stakes (GT3), run over 1 3/8 miles on Woodbine’s inner turf course. Roscar broke sharply from the outside post six and was sent to the lead early in the Singspiel, followed by Legal Catch and Dancin in Da’nile, while 7-5 mutuel choice Haunted Dream (IRE), with Rafael Hernandez in the irons, was tucked into fourth. It was Legal Catch on top by a head through a quarter in :24.61, shadowed by Roscar, as Haunted Dream (IRE) watched the early proceedings from in fourth. On top by a half-length after a half in :50.05, Legal Catch maintained that advantage through three quarters in 1:15.52 but was still under consistent pressure from Roscar. Hernandez gave Haunted Dream (IRE) his cue around the turn for home and the veteran grey responded with an energetic seven-wide move. Carried out in the stretch making a bid near the eighth pole, the eye-catching 6-year-old struck front soon after and powered home to a 1 ½-length score. Tosen Wish (IRE), who had burst through a seam in mid-stretch, secured second, a half-length clear of Dancin in Da’nile. Venencia (FR) was fourth. The final time over firm ground was 2:15.40. Haunted Dream (IRE) and jockey Rafael Hernandez winning the HPIbet Singspiel Stakes on September 6, 2025 at Woodbine (Michael Burns Photo) “In post parade, he was full of energy, and I just wanted to make sure he relaxed, you know, and give him a good trip,” said Hernandez, who guided Aristella to victory in the $250,000 Wonder Where Stakes earlier on the card. “We had a good trip the whole race. First thing, we saved ground, and then my main thing was to get him clear in the backside. I don’t want to get stuck on the rail – just let it roll down the lane.” Trained by Hamad Al-Jehani, Haunted Dream (IRE) is now 9-10-6 from 39 career starts. His most notable wins prior to the Singspiel came when he won consecutive editions, 2023-24, of the Group 3 Al Safliya Cup in Qatar. “We made a bit of a plan to travel and bring him here,” said assistant trainer Thomas Allen. “Rafael gave him a very uncomplicated ride. And as he said, just kept it simple and gave him plenty of room. “It’s been a fantastic experience for all of us to come out here. Facilities are great. Everyone’s been very welcoming.” Haunted Dream (IRE) and jockey Rafael Hernandez winning the HPIbet Singspiel Stakes on September 6, 2025 at Woodbine (Michael Burns Photo) Sired by Oasis Dream (GB) out of the Galileo (IRE) mare Red Halo (IRE), the well-traveled gelding, bred by High Rollers, is owned by Wathnan Racing. “He’s a true yard favourite for everyone,” said Allen. “Everyone loves him. He’s so unique.” Haunted Dream (IRE) paid $4.80 for the win. Chris Lomon, Woodbine Share This:Share
