(Miss Speedy / Rafael Hernandez – Michael Burns Photo)

With foaling season in full swing in Ontario, and the newest crop of Ontario Sired foals arriving, we are looking back at the 2021 Ontario Sired Reward of Excellence finalists.

Nine different Ontario breeders received awards ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 after their two and three-year-old colts and fillies earned 2021 Ontario Sired Reward of Excellence honours.

Linda Mason – one of two breeders to win multiple awards – received the $10,000 third-place award in the three-year-old filly and two-year-old colt categories.

“I can’t tell you how happy I was to have these two horses have such a great season,” said Mason. “The breeders’ awards have always helped me, and in 2021 I received more money than I ever have in the past.”

Her three-year-old filly Miss Speedy, by Souper Speedy, won the Duchess Stakes at Woodbine in September, and two-year-old gelding Where’s Neal, by Society’s Chairman, had two top-three finishes in four starts, including winning the Bull Page Stakes. The two earned $139,307 and $83,265, respectively.

“I have used the Mare Purchase Program in the past as well, and these breeders’ programs are amazing,” added Mason. “The awards and financial incentives allow us to keep breeding and keep buying good quality stock.”

Dr. Liam Gannon received the first-place $25,000 award in the three-year-old filly category as Lorena, by Souper Speedy, posted a 6-0-0 record in eight starts, earning over $225,000 in the process.

“I want to have Canadian breds as much as I can. And of course, the breeders’ awards really help with that,” said Dr. Gannon. “As much as I can, I want to support Canadian racing.”

For Dr. Gannon, the breeders’ awards are an important part of the entire Thoroughbred Improvement Program that supports Ontario breeders.

“I would not have bought the mare I have without the TIP,” added Dr. Gannon. “And the money from the breeders’ awards, all of that will go into my little horse business.”

Artie’s Storm, by We Miss Artie and bred by Sunrise Farm, was the top earning Ontario Sired three-year-old gelding with $255,988 in worldwide earnings. The three-year-old gelding’s 2021 campaign was highlighted by a win in the $100,000 Lake Ontario Stakes, part of the Ontario Sire Heritage Series.

Souper Speedy had the most progeny earn Ontario Sired Reward of Excellence awards, with three. Ami’s Holiday and Silent Name (JPN), both had two progeny earn awards.

For the full list of Ontario Sired Reward of Excellence finalists click here