Paso Doble makes it two straight stakes wins

ETOBICOKE, Ontario - The popular 8-year-old Paso Doble notched his second straight Ontario-sired stakes win on Saturday at Woodbine in the $125,800 Overskate.

Paso Doble ($12.50) took control along the inside about quarter-mile into the seven-furlong sprint, and then opened up a clear lead on the turn while setting a moderate tempo. His lead diminished in late stretch, but he held on gamely to prevail by a head over San Nicola Thunder, who edged out favored Pender Harbour for third in the 10-horse field. The final time was 1:21.43.

Eurico Da Silva rode Paso Doble for trainer Mark Fournier.

“He broke very relaxed from the gate,” said Da Silva. “He took the lead, and got the job done. He fought very hard. Right now, he’s on his best game. He’s a happy horse. He feels like a 2-year-old.”

Paso Doble, who also won the Aug. 4 Shepperton Stakes, banked $75,000 for Centennial Farms (Niagara) and Craig Racing.

*Surtsey rallied wide from the back of the pack to capture Saturday’s $127,400 Avowal by a half-length over front-runner Silent Treat. Favored Hillaby wound up sixth in the seven-horse field of fillies and mares.

Surtsey paid $35.20 to win.

With Luis Contreras riding for trainer Kevin Attard, Surtsey covered seven furlongs over firm turf in 1:22.58. She earned $72,000 for owner-breeder Yvonne Schwabe.