In a significant day of training for some of horse racing's elite, several graded-stakes winners completed workouts on Friday morning. The session provided valuable insights into the form and fitness of these champions as they prepare for upcoming races. Notable performances included Vahva, Carson’s Run, Gaming, and others, each showcasing impressive times at various distances across different tracks. These workouts highlight the rigorous preparation and competitive spirit that define top-tier horse racing.
Vahva Shines in Keeneland Workout; Other Top Horses Also Impress
In the crisp autumn air, Keeneland played host to an array of stellar performances by seasoned racehorses. Among them was Vahva, the 5-year-old daughter of Gun Runner, who breezed three furlongs in a swift 36.8 seconds under the watchful eye of trainer Cherie DeVaux. This time placed her third fastest among nine horses working the same distance. It marked Vahva’s second workout since her eighth-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint. Earlier this year, she claimed victories in the Derby City Distaff (G3) and Chicago (G3), and placed third in the Ballerina (G1).
Elsewhere, Carson’s Run, a Grade 1 winner, clocked an impressive 38.4 seconds over three furlongs at Payson Park. Trainer Christophe Clement’s charge had previously finished fifth in the Hollywood Derby (G1). Gaming, another Grade 1 victor, posted the fastest six-furlong time of 1:11.8 at Santa Anita, while Trikari worked four furlongs in 50.3 seconds at Palm Meadows, continuing its preparation following a sixth-place finish in the Bryan Station (G3).
Skippylongstocking, a three-time Grade 2 winner, turned in a solid 48.9-second effort over four furlongs at Palm Meadows, while Mystic Lake, a two-time Grade 2 winner, made her first post-race appearance with a 37.5-second run over three furlongs. Dicey Mo Chara, Verstappen, Whatmakessammyrun, Skelly, Another Mystery, Artislas, Batten Down, Taking Candy, Where’s My Ring, and Wild Bout Hilary also recorded noteworthy times across various tracks, demonstrating their readiness for future challenges.
These workouts underscore the intense preparation and dedication required to compete at the highest levels of horse racing. Each performance offers trainers and owners critical data to fine-tune their strategies and ensure their horses are in peak condition for upcoming events.
From a journalist’s perspective, these workouts not only provide a glimpse into the meticulous preparation behind each race but also highlight the resilience and athleticism of these magnificent animals. The dedication of trainers and jockeys is evident in every stride, reminding us of the rich tradition and excitement that horse racing continues to offer. As these champions gear up for their next appearances, fans can look forward to thrilling performances that showcase the very best in equine sport.
Several promising thoroughbreds demonstrated their potential with strong performances during Friday's morning workouts. Among these, Gaming, under the guidance of renowned trainer Bob Baffert, showcased impressive speed. Covering six furlongs in just 1:11.8, Gaming achieved the fastest time among four horses at this distance. This workout marked his second since finishing eighth in the Southwest Stakes (G3) at Oaklawn, where he was the second favorite behind Speed King. Despite this recent setback, Gaming remains a contender, currently priced at 35-1 odds for future bets at Caesars Sportsbook in Las Vegas.
In addition to Gaming, two other notable horses also made significant strides on Friday. Filoso, trained by Chad Summers, clocked an impressive 47.9 seconds over four furlongs at Palm Meadows. This time placed him eighth out of 40 horses working at the same distance. His previous performance included a sixth-place finish in the Kentucky Jockey Club (G2) at Churchill Downs. Meanwhile, He’s Not Joking, under the care of Josie Carroll, completed five furlongs in 1:00.7 at Palm Meadows, ranking eighth out of 17 horses at that distance. His last race saw him place fifth in the Holy Bull (G3) at Gulfstream Park.
The dedication and hard work of these equine athletes and their trainers are evident in their consistent performances. Each horse is preparing diligently for upcoming races, aiming to prove their mettle on the track. The competitive spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of horse racing inspire fans and participants alike, highlighting the sport's rich tradition and unwavering commitment to excellence.
In a significant stride towards digital equity, the Northwest Territories (NWT) has achieved remarkable progress through its collaboration with the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). The introduction of a universal subsidy for internet services and various initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity have marked a transformative period for residents. These efforts have not only reduced financial burdens but also promoted greater access to essential online services, education, and economic opportunities. Additionally, the CRTC's recent policy decisions, including measures to advance Indigenous reconciliation, highlight the commitment to ensuring that all communities can benefit from improved telecommunications infrastructure.
Details of the Telecommunications Advancements
In the heart of winter, on January 16, 2025, the CRTC unveiled a groundbreaking decision to introduce a universal subsidy for internet services across the North. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between the high cost of internet in the NWT and the more affordable rates available in southern regions. The government of the Northwest Territories has been a staunch advocate for this change, actively participating in CRTC proceedings to shape this outcome. As a result, every household in the NWT will now have access to affordable internet services, alleviating some of the financial strain on residents.
Furthermore, in the fall of 2023, Northwestel joined the Federal Connecting Families program, providing 1,870 households in the NWT with the opportunity to access high-speed broadband internet services for just $20 per month. This program underscores the region's dedication to ensuring that families, regardless of their financial situation, can stay connected and benefit from essential online resources.
On February 13, 2025, a meeting was held with Ms. Nirmala Naidoo, CRTC Commissioner for NWT and Alberta, and Ms. Joanne T. Levy, CRTC Commissioner for Manitoba and Saskatchewan. During this meeting, the recent decisions to improve the quality and reliability of internet services in the North were commended. The CRTC has also mandated improvements to Northwestel’s Wholesale Connect service, fostering competition and expanding consumer choice in the region.
The CRTC's recent policy decisions also reflect a commitment to Indigenous reconciliation. A new Indigenous Relations Team has been established to ensure that the needs and perspectives of Indigenous communities are integrated into all CRTC work. Additionally, the Broadband Fund has been enhanced to include an Indigenous funding stream, supporting Indigenous-owned Internet Service Providers in developing telecommunications infrastructure. These initiatives promote digital equity, reduce the digital divide, and advance economic reconciliation by empowering Indigenous communities to manage their own telecommunications services.
The achievements in telecommunications are the result of collaborative efforts involving the GNWT, Indigenous and regional governments, northern businesses, advocacy groups, and private citizens. The GNWT will continue to engage in CRTC proceedings to ensure the effective and equitable implementation of the retail internet subsidy, providing feedback on subscriber eligibility, subsidy amounts, and disbursement processes.
From a journalist's perspective, these advancements signify a monumental step towards a more connected and equitable future for all residents of the Northwest Territories. The proactive involvement of various stakeholders demonstrates the power of collaboration and persistence in addressing critical issues. As the region continues to evolve, it is clear that the benefits of improved telecommunications will extend far beyond mere connectivity, fostering social and economic growth for generations to come.