TORONTO, May 21, 2019 – Each week, track announcer Robert Geller comments on some of the performances that caught his eye, highlighting horses to key in on for upcoming races at Woodbine. GOLDEN PEARL (May 12, 2019, Race 2, No. 6, 2nd) In this lower level claiming, six furlong contest, newcomer Golden Pearl battled hard early to snatch the lead into the turn before being worn down by eventual winner Wuk Up Queen. She gave way grudgingly to be beaten a length and a half, outrunning her 11-1 odds, finishing a length ahead of the red hot favourite, Forest Fairy in third. Given the early pace pressure that she withstood, Golden Pearl had every reason to fade down the lane. At four years of age, the Ontario-bred filly trained by Paul Buttigieg showed enough in her first out effort to suggest that she can pick up a win around this $15,000 tag for the barn. PAINTING (May 12, 2019, Race 10, No. 13, 1st) The manner in which Painting scored in her debut suggests she can continue to add to that success next time out where she will be facing winners. Her maiden-breaking score from the outside gate resulted in a dominant victory, coasting to the wire hard-held three and a quarter lengths to the good of shipper Pioneerof New York. Painting broke sharply before settling mid-pack three deep mid race, unleashing a sweeping finish from the top of the stretch that had jockey Eurico da Silva gearing her down inside the final sixteenth. A Kentucky-bred three-year-old filly by Distorted Humor from an A. P. Indy dam, Painting is a promising addition to the Josie Carroll barn. Her maiden special weight win had all the elements of a quality runner. Follow Geller on Twitter @WoodbineGeller for more insights on racing at Woodbine. Share This:Share
