Four-horse flying finish at Ajax Downs on July 30, and the winner was Ruth Barbour's Game Favorite (#6), under jockey Tony Phillips.

© New Image Media / Clive Cohen

AJAX, ONT–JULY 31, 2025–It has been three years since Ruth Barbour retired her multiple champion Quarter Horse Country Boy 123, but last fall, the Hillsburgh, ON veterinarian and horse owner went shopping at an Oklahoma horse sale. She came home with Game Favorite, a $10,000 (US) purchase, who is becoming another exciting horse for his new owner.

On Wednesday (July 30) at Ajax Downs on a sunny and sheltering afternoon, Game Favorite won his third race from four starts in 2025 for Barbour, posting a mild upset in the day's featured race.

The lone 3-year-old in the 300-yard dash turned on the jets in the late stages of the race under jockey Tony Phillips to win a four-horse photo finish by a neck. Game Favorite raced the distance in 15.574 for a strong 91 speed index. His only Ajax Downs loss occurred in his most recent race when he encountered traffic trouble.

"This horse has a lot of energy," said Phillips. "Last time, the space was very tight, and he was a bit iffy going through there. But he was only beaten half a length."

Game Favorite, Barbour and Phillips were greeted in the winner's circle by a visiting group, Della Pia Family and friends, as well as representatives from Girls Inc. of Durham, a group that offers girls programs and camps while encouraging them to become leaders.

CLICK ARROW BELOW to watch the video replay and interview of Game Favorite.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Jockey Ismael Mosqueira posted a natural hat trick with three consecutive riding victories to boost his yearly total to 21. Mosqueira won the second race on Senator Rose, the third race aboard Ice Witch, and the fourth on Sweet Kara.

Racing continues at Ajax Downs next Wednesday, August 6, with the $50,000 Princess Derby headlining the racing card.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Admission and parking are always free at Ajax Downs. You can watch and wager on our exciting races trackside, up close to the action, at our picnic tables. To reserve tables in advance for $25 or book the VIP room for your party or group, contact www.ajaxdowns.com.

If you want to get involved in the excitement of owning a Quarter Horse, contact the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario at 905- 426-7050.