Shaman Ghost scores upset in Marine Stakes

ETOBICOKE, Ontario – Shaman Ghost ($28.30) established himself as a major contender for the prestigious Queen’s Plate with his exciting come-from-behind victory in the Grade 3 Marine Stakes at Woodbine on Saturday.

Shaman Ghost bided his time in seventh early as Bears Personality set honest fractions in the 1 1/16-mile route for 3-year-olds. Shaman Ghost was blocked behind rivals at the top of the stretch before mounting a powerful, wide bid to collar 28-1 shot Seventhfleethumor in the final strides. Shaman Ghost prevailed by a half-length in a quick time of 1:43.35.

Rafael Hernandez rode Shaman Ghost, who earned $90,000 of the $154,600 purse for Stronach Stable and trainer Brian Lynch.

“He’s an awesome horse,” said Hernandez. “I think the farther he goes, he’s going to be better because he relaxed good. All he needs is a good trip.”

Danish Dynaformer rallied wide to finish a length back in third. He was followed by U S Marshall, R U Watchingbud, Bears Personality, 3-5 favorite Ami’s Flatter, Conquest Boogaloo, and Decision Day.

The $1 million Queen’s Plate will be run here July 5.