Husbands’ chase for second King’s Plate delayed by rain

TORONTO, Canada (CMC):

Top Barbadian jockey Patrick Husbands will have to wait a little bit longer if he is to capture his second King’s Plate after heavy rain forced organisers to postpone the highly anticipated, lucrative race at Woodbine last Saturday.

Husbands was scheduled to ride 2-1 choice Essex Serpent, which has won two of its three starts, but a heavy downpour led to the richest horse race in Canada being postponed until Friday, August 23.

Last year, the 51-year-old Husbands won the $1 million race with Paramount Prince.

Eight of the 13 races were called off due to unsafe track conditions.

“The safety of our horses, riders, horse people, and all racing participants is paramount to Woodbine,” said Michael Copeland, CEO Woodbine Entertainment.

“We understand the disappointment for everyone who joined us today, including our great fans, but it was the right decision, one made in concert with the HBPA, jockeys, and veterinarians, to cancel the races.

“We want to thank everyone for their understanding of the decision that was made and hope we can welcome you back this Friday, where we will crown another Plate winner and add their name to a list of great champions.”

Friday’s card will also include the four stakes races that were also scheduled for the meet: the $200,000 bet365 King Edward (G2T), the $150,000 Bold Venture Stakes (G3), $150,000 bet365 Soaring Free and $150,000 Catch a Glimpse.