Watch out for Hastings invader

EDMONTON, Alberta - Horses from Hastings have dominated much of the stakes racing in Alberta over the past few years. It should be interesting to discover if that superiority translates into the high claiming ranks, too, in a 6o1/2-furlong $30,000 claiming race for fillies and mares here at Northlands Park on Sunday.

Lasting Lake won her maiden at Hastings last year, and made the trip to Northlands for the $50,000 Chariot Chaser, where she contended early but faded to fifth. Lasting Lake now returns to Northlands as a 4-year-old, once again after a nice win on her home course. Lasting Lake trounced $20,000 claimers at 6 1/2 furlongs July 8, recording a lifetime best Beyer Speed Figure of 72.

Quincy Welch rides Lasting Lake.

Arsen Annie, a 7-year-old, comes to Northlands by way of Emerald Downs. In her most recent start, Arsen Annie won a $20,000 claimer going 1 1/16 miles. She also won earlier this year sprinting at the same class. Leading rider Rickey Walcott will be aboard.

The locals are represented by a hard-hitting contingent of veteran campaigners, including Ebony Lady, a 6-year-old trained by Ernie Keller. Ebony Lady had an impressive return to form in her most recent outing, when she got up to win by a half-length for a $30,000 tag July 19. Ron Blinston retains the mount.