Champion Had to Be Ivory Wins for the 27th Time, Becomes Ontario's Most Successful Quarter Horse

AJAX, ONT–JUNE 6, 2024–He did it again. Three-time AQHA Canadian Champion Had To Be Ivory romped to his 27th career win in front of a big crowd at Ajax Downs on Wednesday, just missing the 300 yard track record by three-tenths of a second.

The ageless 9-year-old Ontario-bred gelding won for the 11th consecutive time at his home track for Carol and Jaime Robertson of Hillsburgh, ON, who own and bred the son of Ivory James. Bryn Roberston trains, and Josh Scott was the winning rider.

Had to Be Ivory, one of the most successful Quarter Horses bred in this province, was coming off an easy win in the Norman Picov Maturity on May 15 and was heavily favoured in the $17,450 Open Allowance at 1 to 10.

The big bay, a two-time Horse of the Year at Ajax Downs, was quickly in front right out of the gates and won by 1 3/4 lengths over First Cold Wave, the 2022 Horse of the Year. The time of 15.31 was not far off Country Boy 123's record of 15.10. Had to Be Ivory earned an impressive 107 speed index.

"This horse is unbelievable," said Scott. "You really can't get much better than this. He leaves the gate faster than a Porsche 911 Turbo."

Carol Robertson, Bryn's wife, said, "We just take it race-by-race with him. As long as he still enjoys it, he will keep racing."

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On Wednesday, there were also two exciting Trials for the $30,000-added Unclassified Stakes for 3-year-olds and upward (see related story). The 10-fastest times from the two Trials will compete in the final for the Unclassified Stakes final on June 26.

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Parking and admission are always free at Ajax Downs. You can watch and wager on the races trackside or from the expansive simulcast room. Wagering is also available through www.HPIBET.com. Do you have a group or company event? Call ahead to reserve the trackside VIP room to enjoy food, drink, and mutuals. Want to get involved in Quarter Horse ownership? Contact the QROOI at 905 - 426-7050 for details.

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