Hastings: Pakal upwardly mobile on dry track

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – After running over wet tracks in the first four starts of his career, Pakal finally got a chance to hear his feet rattle when he caught a fast track in his latest start, which came at Hastings in a $7,500 claiming race for 3-year-olds. The result was an easy four-length romp over next-out winner Macho Quito.

If it stays dry Pakal might good enough to stand the jump in class when he runs in a $15,000 claiming race for 3-year-olds that will serve as Wednesday’s feature at Hastings. The 6 1/2-furlong sprint for 3-year-olds drew seven horses and goes as the seventh race. Post time for the first of eight races is 3:30 p.m. Pacific.

Pakal’s only other win came in a $5,000 maiden claiming race where he led right from the start. He looked very comfortable sitting just off the 4-5 favorite Diamond Dancer in his latest win, though, and with all of the potential speed in the field he will probably need another patient ride by apprentice Alex Marti to beat a solid field of sprinters for trainer Craig MacPherson.

Marti made a smart move last time. Pakal was on the inside of Diamond Dancer approaching the first turn but Marti eased him out of the potential duel and put him into a stalking position coming out of the turn. After engaging Diamond Dancer going into the stretch turn, Pakal quickly opened up a clear lead. He earned a 67 Beyer Speed Figure which is easily the best last-race figure in the field.

It is hard to Separate Lord Henry, Canucks Roar, and With Council. They finished within a neck of each other when they met in a similar race Aug. 12.

Lord Henry, trained by Sylvia Gregory, came from a stalking position to edge Canucks Roar. It was his first win as a 3-year-old.

Canucks Roar likes to be involved early but he was taken out of his game a bit when he was squeezed back leaving the starting gate. He took over the lead going down the backstretch but couldn’t hold off Lord Henry. Trained by Charlene Miller, Canucks Roar drew the rail and could be dangerous with a better start.

With Council rallied late to finish a nose behind Canucks Roar. He also came from off the pace to win a $12,500 claiming race in his previous start. Trained by Dino Condilenios, With Council was a stakes winner as a 2-year-old, beating Lord Henry in the $75,000 Ascot Graduation.