Hoss Talk

Is Rich Cam worth the hype? You bet!

If there's one thing to be said about the current overlap racing dates between Hastings and Fraser Downs, it's that racing fans now have an opportunity to enjoy a cross-section of horse racing.

Two weeks ago, harness fans at Fraser Downs were able to wager on the $125,000 Ascot Graduation Stakes run at Hastings.

Tomorrow, both tracks reverse their roles with Fraser Downs hosting Breeders' Classic Day, an event worth $416,475, of which $290,000 goes towards four designated feature races.

With 86 horses scheduled to race on Classic Day, combined with the advent of simulcast broadcasting, horsemen and fans throughout North America will be in for a real treat watching Sunbury Stables' Rich Cam (2-5) compete in the $44,865 B.C. Breeders' final for two-year-olds.

Unbeaten in all four starts; it's not Rich Cam's streak that's impressive, but how he does it that leaves you with goose bumps.

After winning his last race in a breeze, his veteran trainer and driver Dave Jungquist said: "I'm fairly certain he [Rich Cam] could race around the track in 1:55, which is a monstrous mile for any colt out here. I really believe this horse is the best they've ever seen at this racetrack. I've been waiting for years for a horse like him."

DREAMS: With horse racing known as a sport where David can beat Goliath, it's no wonder so many think of one day owning a race horse.

Owner/trainer Terry Burstyk operates a three-horse stable and Red Star Dahling (15-1), owned by is wife Deborah, is entered in the $104,764 Breeders Classic final for three-year-old fillies.

The Burstyks, like many other owners and trainers, keep their dreams alive by working within the racing industry. While Terry trains the stable, Deborah has worked as a mutual clerk for 22 years, the last several years selling mutual tickets at the Backstretch Kitchen.

"We purchased Red Star Dahling in early September from John Currie," said Burstyk. "I liked her breeding, and because she was eligible for this race, we decided to take a shot."

Owner/trainer Boyd Burke grew up within the harness racing industry. Working with his father Tom and brother Jim, he gained a reputation for hard work and a keen eye for horseflesh.

For years, Burke has been hoping for a big break that would jump-start his career. His dreams rest on Norma Norma (10-1), whom he bred in partnership with Michael Dunphy. Norma Norma races in the $47,160 BC Breeders' final for two-year-old fillies.

Burtsyk and Burke are only two of many individuals hoping to fulfill a lifelong dream that will lead them to the winner's circle on Breeders' Classic Day.

FINISH LINES: On the Sport of Kings, Saturday at 11 a.m. on Citytv, a visit with legendary driver Herve Filion and his drive towards 15,000 wins. ... In memory of popular Keith Linton, who recently passed away, Fraser Downs drivers will wear their colours and accompany Keith's driving suit for one last lap Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. at the Fraser Downs paddock.

Tom Wolski can be seen on the Sport of Kings, 11 a.m. Saturday, Citytv.

twolski@shaw.ca
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Source: Vancouver Province
E-mail Tommy Wolski at twolski@shaw.ca