Highland Mood wins again

ETOBICOKE, Ontario - Highland Mood turned back several stretch challenges to take the $146,880 Ontario Damsel Stakes in a gutsy performance at Woodbine on Monday.

Highland Mood pressed Turner's Hall through quick fractions in the 6 1/2-furlong turf dash for Canadian-bred 3-year-old fillies. She assumed command early in the stretch, and held off Chopinina and Bel Serenata in the final furlong to prevail by a half-length.

California invader Bel Serenata edged Chopinina by a head to garner second prize. Phone Dancer finished fourth, but was placed fifth by the stewards for interfering with Crown's Shadow on the far turn. Turner's Hall faded to trail the six-horse field.

"She's a very game filly," said David Clark, who rode the winner. "She likes her head in front, and she likes the competition. She's still a little green, but she's coming along very well."

Highland Mood, who is now unbeaten in three starts, covered the distance in 1:15.78. She returned $3.50 as the favorite and earned $88,128 for Hali Stable and Norseman Racing Stable. It was one of three victories on the card for trainer Bob Tiller.