Awhitesportscoat gives Hall meaningful victory in George Royal Stakes

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – Awhitesportscoat took advantage of a fast pace to win the $50,000 George Royal Stakes at Hastings Sunday. He paid $10.90 for his 2 3/4-length victory over Driller in the 6 1/2-furlong dash for 3-year-olds and up.

With Enrique Gonzalez aboard, Awhitesportcoat dropped down to the rail coming out of the first turn and sat in a stalking position while Weekend Wizard reeled off quick interior fractions of 21.95 and 44.74 seconds. He moved into serious contention on the stretch turn, took control turning for home, and drew off to win convincingly. Driller rallied to finish second by a nose over Apalachee Bay, who chased the pace.

The final time was 1:17.08.

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Awhitesportscoat is trained by Phil Hall. Hall is the son of Robert W. Hall, who owned and trained George Royal, by far the best horse ever bred in British Columbia.

Hall was very emotional in the winner’s circle.

“It’s very special,” said Hall. “I wasn’t alive when George Royal was running, but I’ve heard all the stories and I know what he meant to our family.”

A 5-year-old son of Hansen, Awhiteesportscoat was making his first start at Hastings. In his last start he won a $30,000 optional claiming race at Emerald Downs for trainer Blaine Wright.

“All the credit goes to Blaine,” said Hall. “I just saddled him. We have a great relationship and I am always confident when he sends a horse to me.”

Awhitesportcoat races for Peter Redekop. Apalache Bay is also owned by Redekop and trained by Hall.