by Mark Johnson

On a very warm July 29th, Sunday at Hastings racing oval the 2nd race was dedicated to 3-year-olds in Allowance / Optional Claiming $25,000 conditions going 1 1/16 miles. BC bred Mr. Finch , last to load and fastest from the gate, made the lead easily and set a slow first quarter mile fraction which served him well. Rider Enrique Gonzalez was able to get him relaxed in front and held Mr. Finch in the two path the entire trip and none of his competitors could catch him, winning by 1 3/4 lengths in 1:44.82. This fine animal is owned by James Callihoo and more than ably trained by Phil Hall. Mr. Finch, by BC sire Mass Market and out of My Special Angel , was bred in Langley, BC by Mark Johnson and Sharon Johnson. He went through the 2016 BC CTHS Yearling and Mixed Sale and was sold to Nick and Pauline Felicella for $33,000. My Special Angel has also produced stakes placed winner of over $100,000, B C Charlie and multiple winner Too Much Johnson. The mare has a yearling named Miss Earl (Hip #54) in the upcoming 2018 BC CTHS Sale by exciting new BC sire, Bakken, consigned by Born to Run Thoroughbreds, agent.