Canterbury track report

Canterbury Park declared Sunday's ninth and final race a no-contest when it was determined that the starting gate did not operate properly and the field was dispatched unevenly.

All 12 fillies and mares in the field were loaded for the $15,000 claiming test, but when starter Bud Keen hit the button that opens the gates only stalls 5 through 9 immediately opened. A split-second later stalls 10 through 12 opened, followed immediately by stalls 1 through 4. The result was a field of horses spread over 20 lengths apart in the first quarter-mile.

It appeared the appropriately named Pop the Latch had done just that as she led the field from the break to the wire, prevailing by 14 lengths, but the Canterbury Park stewards had already lit the inquiry light on the tote board. All wagers on the race were refunded. While losing jockey mount fees were paid to each starter, no other purse money for the $9,500 contest was distributed.

* Canterbury Park has expanded its parimutuel menu for the 2005 season. Superfecta wagering will now be offered on every race with eight or more starters. The track will now offer rolling pick three wagering on Thoroughbred races starting with the second race on every card. Canterbury Park will guarantee a minimum $10,000 pool for pick six wagering for every Saturday card.