Had To Be Fabulous, ridden by Ismael Mosqueira, won her trial heat and clocked the fastest time to the $55,000 Ontario Bred Derby on Wednesday at Ajax Donws.

© Clive Cohen/New Image Media

By Leann Noguera, StallioneSearch

AJAX DOWNS, ONT, JUNE 11–Two trials were contested Wednesday afternoon at Ajax Downs to determine the fastest qualifiers for the $55,000 Ontario Bred Derby Final, set for July 2, 2025. With a pair of competitive heats showcasing some of Ontario’s top 3-year-olds at 300 yards, Had To Be Fabulous emerged as the standout, continuing her unbeaten 2025 campaign and clocking the fastest time of the day.

Breaking alertly under Ismael Mosqueira, Had To Be Fabulous proved once again why she’s one of Canada’s top sophomore runners. The daughter of One Fabulous Eagle dominated the first trial with authority, defeating Last Cold Bud by 1 3/4-lengths. The heavy favorite stopped the clock in 15.538 seconds, earning a 93 speed index — the fastest of the afternoon.

Trained by Bryn Robertson and owned by Carol and Jaime Robertson, the filly was bred in Ontario by the same connections. She is out of Had to Be Fandango, by Hadtobenuts.

Now undefeated in three starts this season, Had To Be Fabulous boasts a record of eight wins from nine career outings, including major victories in the QROOI Derby, Alex Picov Memorial Futurity, and QROOI Bonus Futurity. Her lifetime earnings have grown to $67,208, and she will head into the Derby final as the commanding favorite.

In the second trial, Embrace Your Fate made his career debut, scoring a 1/2-length victory over Peighntmeadiamond under the guidance of jockey Tony Phillips. The 3-year-old gelding by Peighnt Your Fate crossed the wire in 15.711 seconds, earning an 87 speed index — the second-fastest time of the day.

Trained by John McInerney and owned by Rick Parker, Embrace Your Fate was bred in Ontario by Michelle Woodley. He is out of Embrace Extravagence, by Wild Boyz.

With one start and one win to his name, Embrace Your Fate’s effort paid $13.50 on a $2.00 for the minor upset.

The field is now set for the $55,000 Ontario Bred Derby Final at Ajax Downs. CLICK HERE for complete details on all ten qualifiers in the July 2 finals. Stay with StallioneSearch for continued coverage and full preview analysis leading to the finals.

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