AJAX, ONT—SEPTEMBER 12, 2021—Fastest qualifier First Cold Wave returned to Ajax Downs Wednesday to defeat Night Leader by 1-˝ lengths as the post-time favorite in the $51,622(US) Ontario Sires Stakes Futurity.

Under jockey Brian Bell, First Cold Save rolled over the Ajax racing surface in :17.146 seconds for the 330 yards into a 16 mph headwind. It was the third win five starts for the son of the First Downs stallion Cold Hard Dash. The $20,650(US) winner's doubled the gelding's earnings mark to $40,929.

"He just did it himself, it's amazing to be on a horse like that," said Bell. "He's really focused from the post parade and in the gate. Honestly, I don't think we have seen the best of him."

Jason Pascoe conditions First Cold Wave for owner-breeder Robert Bailey. Bred from the Wave Carver mare Cassies Carver, First Cold Wave was second in the $48,683(US) Ontario Bred Futurity last month at Ajax.

Night Leader, winner of the aforementioned Ontario Bred Futurity, finished second for trainer Scott Reid, who co-owns the son of El Night Shift with John Wilson. Edith Slater bred the bay gelding from the Special Leader mare Bajillion. Carly Furlonger was up to earn $10,325(US). Night Leader has banked $36,743 off five starts.

Pascoe also saddled third-place finisher Keepr Of The Stars for owner-breeder Belinda Taggart. Under jockey Helen Vanek, the son of Star Fire Dash, finished three-quarters back to earn $5,163(US). Bred from the Stel Corona mare Dazzlin Lady, Keepr Of The Stars has earned $420,253 this year.

Kold Kinda Star, Magic Flare, Jezzabella, Blazin Magician and Sw Snowmagicallykool completed the field. Magic Diamond and Runawaylightsncaviar were scratched.

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Pascoe, who trains his horses on his Pontypool, ON farm with partner Bryanne Langford, won four races on the eight-race card, padding his lead in the trainer standings. Pascoe has 29 wins while Craig Spada is second with 14. Alberta jockey Ricardo Moreno won three races on the day, all for Pascoe.

Racing continues at Ajax Downs on Sept. 22 with the exciting final of the $45,000 Picov Derby featuring a field of the 10 best 3-year-olds at Ajax Downs. First race post time is 12:55 p.m. (EDT). To pre-register to attend the day of racing, go to ajaxdowns.com and sign up beginning Sept. 20.

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Be sure to check out ajaxdowns.com for race selections, live streaming, and a free pocket program on race days as well as the latest news. You can watch and wager on the Ajax card at Horseplayer Interactive, hpibet.com. Follow Ajax Downs on Twitter and Instagram @AjaxDowns.

If you would like information on how to get involved in owning a Quarter Horse or to join a syndicate, contact the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario at qrooi.com.

The races are streamed live on the Ajax Downs Facebook page and its new Youtube page YouTube page.