Psychic Goes With Keystone Horatio

August 2, 2007

If you ask animal psychic Lauren Bode, Keystone Horatio will win this Monday's $300,000 Battle of Waterloo, shrugging off his post position disadvantage.

Grand River Raceway provided Bode with brief bios and photos of each contender, taken during three elimination rounds on July 30.

"Keystone Horatio said he can (pace) very fast," Bode said of her communication with the Rustler Hanover colt. "He (races) differently every time and has longer strides than the other horses."

Keystone Horatio was an impressive winner from the rail with Randy Waples in the final elimination division on Monday night. It was his first win in three career starts for trainer Jack Kopas and owner George Hempt. The colt drew the far outside (Post 8) in the post position draw for the Battle of Waterloo final.

Bode selected Samurai Seelster (Post 3) for the runner-up spot. "He likes to get away first. He said he had a bit of a breathing problem. I believe he gets very excited."

Rounding out the top three is Somebeachsomewhere (Post 7). The quickest of the Battle of Waterloo elimination winners, the son of Mach Three set a new track record and Canadian season's record with a 1:54.2 finish. It was his first career start. "He says he has a problem with holding his head, but can (pace) very fast."

Bode sees Sturges Hanover (Post 4) finishing fourth. "He'll keep steady until the last (part of the race), but then he wants to let go." Although not part of her top selections, Bode said, "I rather like Believeinbruiser (Post 1) as well. He keeps a steady stride." This year's edition of the Battle of Waterloo will mark its 10th anniversary. To date, no winners have started from Posts 1, 7 or 8.

Open-minded Industry Day race participants are reminded that time slots are limited for a complimentary reading for your horse by Bode. Demonstrations will take place between 12:30 – 1:15 in front of the grandstand, and from 1:30 to 2:30 in the barn area.

Please note that readings are offered only to horses which are racing on Industry Day. Each reading takes approximately 10 minutes. If you wish to participate, please contact Kelly at (519) 846-5455 (ext. 238) upon completion of the Industry Day draw on Thursday, August 2. First come, first served.

Festivities begin at 12:30 and post time for Grand River Raceway's Industry Day event on August 6 is 2:00 p.m.