The finish of the Grade 2 Canadian Stakes at Woodbine Racetrack produced one of those head-bobbing finishes where it seems a shame for either horse to be declared the runner-up.
The battle came down to determined closer Crystal Cliffs (FR) under Rafael Hernandez and Fev Rover (IRE) with Patrick Husbands, with Fev Rover managing the slightest advantage at the wire.
Fev Rover charted a stalker's course during the 1 1/8 miles run over the E.P. Taylor turf, trailing early leader Angelou before poking a head in front at the 3/4 pole. Favored Crystal Cliffs settled for fifth out of eight out of the gate but made her move early, taking aim at the leaders around the turn and swinging six wide before sticking her nose in front of Fev Rover at the top of the stretch. The two dueled down the stretch, with neither giving up and Fev Rover winning by inches.
Flirting Bridge finished third.
The final time was 1:47.33, with fractions of :24.50, :49.28, 1:12.71, and 1:35.28.
Mark Casse trains Fev Rover for owner Tracy Farmer. The 4-year-old filly was bred in Ireland by Manister House Stud and is the daughter of Gutaifan and High Chaparral mare Laurelita. She sold at the 2019 Goffs Premier Sale as a yearling for $24,580, where she was consigned by her breeder and purchased by Howson & Houldsworth / N. Bradley. She sold again as a 3-year-old at the Tattersalls December Mares Sale last year, where she brought $971,704. She was consigned there by Musley Bank Stables.
Fev Rover started her career in England and also ran in France, Ireland, and Saudi Arabia before making her first Canadian start earlier this year. She was most recently second behind Wakanaka in the G2 Dance Smartly but has previous wins in the Irish Stallion EBF Star Stakes and G2 Shadwell Prix du Calvados to her credit. She has also run multiple times in G1 company, with starts in the 1,000 Guineas, Coronation, Irish 1,000 Guineas, and Bahrain Sun Chariot. She now has three wins from 13 starts.
Fev Rover paid $11.10, $5.00, and $3.20.
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