"Our family has been proud to give back to Ajax for generations, and Family Fun Day is a tradition that brings our community together in support of the hospital here at Ajax Downs," said Barry and Robin Picov.
AJAX DOWNS, AUGUST 24, 2025 - Carrying on a tradition in its 14th year, Ajax Downs hosted another successful FAMILY FUN DAY in support of the Ajax Pickering Hospital at the races on Sunday, August 24.
On a perfect, sunny afternoon, families flocked to the track for a day filled with entertainment, activities, treats, giveaways, and fast horses competing in two Trials for the important Norman Picov Derby.
Ajax Downs and the Town of Ajax celebrate on Aug. 24 - Laurie Overton photo
The Picov family presented a cheque to the Ajax Pickering Hospital for $320,000 for proceeds from Family Fun Days.
Photo at Left: HAD TO BE FABULOUS won the fastest of two Trials for the Norman Picov Derby at Ajax Downs on Aug. 24, her eighth consecutive victory. New Image Media Photo
"Our family has been proud to give back to Ajax for generations, and Family Fun Day is a tradition that brings our community together in support of the hospital here at Ajax Downs," said Barry and Robin Picov. "We're grateful to Emilio (Trotta, General Manager), Kara (Ferguson, Racetrack Administrator), and our dedicated team, and all the families who joined us today to make this possible."
On track, fans witnessed two exciting Trial races for the $50,000-added Picov Derby, with the fastest 10 times advancing to the final on September 10.
Carol and Jaime Robertson's amazing 3-year-old Ontario bred Quarter Horse filly HAD TO BE FABULOUS won the quicker of the two 400-yard dashes, taking the second Trial under jockey Ismael Mosqueira by three-quarters of a length in 20.303, earning an 89 speed index. Trained by Bryn Robterson, Had to Be Fabulous was winning her eighth straight race, which includes three stakes races in 2025. The bay daughter of One Fabulous Eagle from Had to Be Fandango has won 11 of 12 career races.
Kissin Ella, owned by Milena Kwiecien, finished second, and Peightmeadiamond was third, each earning an 86 speed index.
The second fastest time of the two Trials was posted by the second Trial winner, LAST COLD BUD, who won by a nose in 20.385 for an 87 speed index. Last Cold Bud, an Ontario bred and sired gelding, is a homebred for Belinda Taggert by Cold Hard Dash from One Kool Bud. Scott Reid trains and Christian Benitez rode. Jennifer Zurowski's Nadir just missed winning, and he posted a time of 20.391.
Jockey Mosqueira won four races on the afternoon and recorded his 100th career win at Ajax Downs in the process.
Racing continues at Ajax Downs on SUNDAY, AUGUST 31 on Labour Day weekend, with a first race post time of 12:55 p.m.
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.
There is also an expansive simulcast wagering room with tellers, or you can wager through www.HPIBet.com.
If you want to get involved in owning a Quarter Horse, contact the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario at 905- 426-7050.
Photo - Scenes from Family Fun Day
Source: Ajax Downs