Winning Debut!

It was the best of beginnings for our 2-year-old Duke of Love, who won his debut Sunday by 1 ¾ lengths over the Tapeta surface at Woodbine to give MyRacehorse its first win in Canada.

The colt was sent off as the 2-1 favorite for the 5 ½-furlong maiden special weight race with a field of 10. The son of Cupid broke well under Justin Stein, quickly settling in a close fourth, which he maintained going into the far turn.

Duke of Love made his move in mid-turn, and entering the stretch, Stein decided to take him to the rail. There, Duke of Love raced professionally in passing his last opponent and lengthening his stride.

There was a brief concern after the stewards’ inquiry sign went up, involving Duke of Love and runner-up Uncle Joe around the quarter pole. The stewards, however, quickly decided no change should be made.

The winning time was 1:03.47.

“I think this is going to be a very nice horse,” winning trainer Josie Carroll said. “We were thrilled to have MyRacehorse come up to Canada, and hopefully they’re starting with a good one here.”