Two join probable field for Queen's Plate

ETOBICOKE, Ontario – Several Queen’s Plate prospects were entered in allowance races last Saturday, and two of those horses appear to be on track for the July 3 classic.

Narrow Escape captured the Saturday opener with a front-running score in an Ontario-sired allowance race over 1 1/16 miles on Tapeta. It was Narrow Escape’s first start since winning an Ontario-sired maiden special weight last October.

“We’re delighted with the little horse,” said trainer Justin Nixon. “If he’s healthy, we’re going. You’re only 3 once. He’s come out of the race well.”

Meanwhile, All On Red ran second in his first start for trainer Sid Attard in an open allowance, also at 1 1/16 miles.

“I was really happy with him,” Attard said. “I wouldn’t worry about this race – he’ll run better in the next race.”

Attard said All On Red’s next start likely will be in the Queen’s Plate.

All On Red had been entered in an allowance race May 29 that was won by another Queen’s Plate contender, Leavem in Malibu. Attard said All On Red got sick ahead of that start and had to be scratched. All On Red joined Attard’s barn after recording a 90 Beyer Speed Figure in a maiden victory at Aqueduct on April 24 for trainer Michelle Nevin.

All On Red earned an 84 Beyer on Saturday, while Narrow Escape recorded a 62.