Michelle Olson (seen in May with her friend's horse Bodacious Tataz) will race her first Quarter Horse as an owner and trainer at Ajax Downs on May 31.

© John Watkins

AJAX, ONT–MAY 30, 2023– Michelle Olson set a goal for herself a few years ago to own and train a Quarter Horse to race at Ajax Downs. The young horsewoman and former ironworker will realize that dream as she will start her 3-year-old filly Gin Xpress in race 2 on Wednesday May 31, the fourth racing day of the 2023 Ajax Downs meeting.

"I’m super excited and naturally nervous about my first career start as a trainer and Ginny's first-lifetime race," said Olson, who lives in Peterborough. "She has been feeling good since her last workout, but I try not to put big expectations on a first-time starter."

Also a trainer of Standardbreds since 2021. Olson was horse crazy as a child and has worked in Ontario horse racing for more than a decade. She started in the Quarter Horse business five years ago as an exercise rider and assistant trainer for her close friend and successful owner and trainer, Amanda McCormack.  Just over a month ago, Olson wrote, and passed, her trainer's test at Ajax Downs.

Gin Xpress, in fact, was bred by McCormack and the filly is a daughter of successful Ontario stallion Sugarman Perry. Brian Bell, one of Ajax Downs' longtime leading jockeys, will partner Gin Xpress on Wednesday from post 6 in the 300-yard maiden race.

"I hope for a good experience [for her], a good break, and a strong, clean run," said Olson.

Incidentally, McCormack will be racing the older half-sister to Gin Xpress, Bodacious Tataz, in the fourth race on Wednesday.

First race post time for the May 31 card is 1:30 p.m. (EDT).

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