Zestina won't be denied in Ontario Damsel victory

ETOBICOKE, Ontario – A feisty Zestina dug in late to take the $125,000 Ontario Damsel Stakes over a hanging Scarlet Flutter on Saturday at Woodbine.

With Gary Boulanger aboard, Zestina ($13.10) stalked in third on the turn while Lunar Garden led the way in the one-mile turf route. Zestina and Scarlet Flutter both rallied wide into contention in the stretch. Scarlet Flutter hit the front around the eighth pole and seemed headed for victory, but Zestina came back on to prevail by a half-length in 1:35.91.

Line of Vision was along for third as Lunar Garden faded to fourth. The heavily favored Dixie Moon came up empty in the stretch and trailed the six-horse field of Ontario-bred 3-year-old fillies.

“She’s a very gutsy filly,” said Boulanger. “It was her first time going a mile on turf. She’s tough. She doesn’t ever give up. [Scarlet Flutter] went by me, and she kinda took a breath. I switched left-handed. I hit her, and all of a sudden she resurged and got by her again.”

A daughter of Silent Name, Zestina had also won her previous start against Ontario-sired 3-year-old fillies in the Passing Mood Stakes. She earned $75,000 for Stronach Stable and trainer Sid Attard.