Mysterious Affair repeats in Whimsical

ETOBICOKE, Ontario - Mysterious Affair captured the $147,355 Whimsical Stakes for the second year in a row Saturday at Woodbine.

Mysterious Affair led most of the way in the six-furlong dash for fillies and mares, setting fractions of 22.07 and 45 seconds while being pressed by Dreams Go Bye. She opened up a clear lead at the quarter pole, and coasted home by three lengths over favored El Prado Essence. Devastating was third in the eight-horse field.

The final time, over a sloppy track, was 1:10.54.

"It surprised me that we were on top like that," said Dale Hemsley, who rode Mysterious Affair. "I thought we'd be behind a couple of horses, and then come and get them, but she was right on the bridle."

Mysterious Affair ($9.80) earned $89,975 for owner-trainer-breeder Mort Hardy.