Immediately before the Withers, a field of 6 older horses sprinted 6 furlongs in the $150,000 Toboggan Stakes (G3). Johannesburg Smile was sent off as the 9-5 favorite off his win in an optional claimer where he was claimed by new owner Mike Repole. In to challenge him included 2-1 second choice Head Heart Hoof, winner of the Truen Blue Stakes, and 3-1 third choice Mine Over Matter, second in the Turnofthecentury Stakes last out.
Channing Hill sent 11-1 longest shot P J's Magical Wink to the front down the backstretch through an opening quarter in 22.95 before Head Heart Hoof took over on the far turn through a half in 46.44. Head Heart Hoof opened up a 2 length lead in midstretch through 5/8 in 57.69, and held off late-running Johannesburg Smile by 1/2 a length in 1:09.86. It was another 1 1/2 lengths back to 10-1 Sinai third.
Results Chart from Daily Racing Form
Past winners of the Toboggan Stakes
