Expectations high as He's the Reason starts season in Jim Coleman Province

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – Owner-trainer Glen Todd ranks He’s the Reason as one of the best horses he has owned. If he’s right, He’s the Reason will be a handful when he makes his 3-year-old debut in the $50,000 Jim Coleman Province on Saturday at Hastings. The 6 1/2-furlong dash for 3-year-olds drew seven horses.

As an owner, Todd has won most of the major stakes at Hastings, and arguably his best horse was Taylor Said, who won the Grade 3 Longacres Mile at Emerald Downs. Taylor Said, trained by Troy Taylor, reeled off six straight wins at one point in his career.

He’s the Reason is undefeated in three starts and signaled his readiness when he worked a sensational six furlongs in 1:10.60 over a track labeled wet-fast here April 11. Scott Williams was aboard for the work. Aaron Gryder will be aboard He’s the Reason when he breaks from post 3.

“He does everything so easily,” Todd said. “I think he’s as good if not better than Taylor Said.”

Todd explained the spectacular work. The track record for six furlongs at Hastings is 1:09.44. It was set by B R Remark in 2008.

“He just took off when Scotty asked him to go after a couple of horses that were working in front of him,” Todd said. “I think Scotty just got a little excited. It didn’t take anything out of him, though, and Aaron slowed him down for his next two works. He couldn’t be doing any better.”

KEY CONTENDERS

He’s the Reason, by The Factor

Last 3 Beyers: 52-46-47

◗ He appears to be primed for a big effort in his first start since he easily won an open allowance race Aug. 7.

Wise Market, by Fuchsia Gold

Last 3 Beyers: 64-48-65

◗ By virtue of wins in the $100,000 Jack Diamond Futurity and $100,000 Ascot Graduation, he was voted the top 2-year-old at Hastings last year.

◗ Trained by Phil Hall, this will be his first start since he was the runner-up to Weekend Wizard in the $50,000 B.C. Cup Nursery on Oct. 22.

Weekend Wizard, by Rosberg

Last 3 Beyers: 31-67-62

◗ Trained by Craig MacPherson, he’s been off since he finished sixth as the favorite in the $60,000 Canadian Juvenile on Oct. 29 at Century Downs. He’s had three sharp works at Hastings since arriving from Florida, where he spent the winter training at the Eclipse Training Center in Ocala.

“He hasn’t raced for a while, but he should be ready to go,” MacPherson said.