"She was anticipating the break," said Mosqueira. "Someone moved beside her, and she thought it was time for her to leave. We got her squared up again in the gate, then she broke a bit slow, but she's just all class."
AJAX DOWNS, JULY 30, 2026 - The next generation of star Quarter Horses at Ajax Downs were on display on Wednesday, July 29 in the competitive $59,985 Ontario Bred Futurity for 2-year-olds. HAD TO BE VALIANT, following in the hoofprints of her champion relatives, overcame a slow start to win the 300-yard dash by a length over 11 to 1 longshot BAREF HURRICANE RUSH, and a fast-closing STOLEN IVORY S DASH, a stablemate of the winner.
Wednesday's races marked the halfway point of the 2026 Ajax Downs meeting, which is in the midst of a record-setting season for wagering, in its 57th year. Track personnel also paid tribute to one of Ontario Quarter Horse racing's founders, the late Ken Richards, with a ceremony in the winner's circle during the afternoon.
Had to Be Valiant and jockey Ismael Mosquiera grab the win in the $59,985 Ontario Bred Futurity for 2-year-olds at Ajax Downs on July 29 - Laurie Overton Photo
Had to Be Valiant, a homebred for Carol and Jaime Robertson and trainer Bryn Robertson, was a strong 1 to 5 choice in the Futurity following a strong win in her first career race on July 8. The compact filly was a bit over-excited in the starting gate before the race and broke a step behind her rivals, but she quickly scampered to the lead under jockey Ismael Mosqueira.
"She was anticipating the break," said Mosqueira. "Someone moved beside her, and she thought it was time for her to leave. We got her squared up again in the gate, then she broke a bit slow, but she's just all class."
The time for the race was 16.249 for a 71 speed index, racing into a fairly strong headwind. Had to Be Valiant, who is undefeated in two starts, is the first foal for her dam Five Bar Fandango, a multiple winner at Ajax Downs and a half-sister herself to champions Had to Be Ivory and Had to Be Fabulous.
Mosqueira rode three winners on the sunny and warm afternoon, to bring his total to nine for the season, tied for third-place in the rider standings with Brian Bell. Cassandra Jeschke won two races on Wednesday to bring her total to 10, just one shy of the leader, Cristian Benitez.
Jeschke's two winners, Justt Jackson at 8 to 1 in race 2 and CG Mega Spy at 6 to 1 in race 5, helped trigger a Pick 4 payoff of over $1,000 for a 20 cent base bet. The afternoon's Pick 5 wager paid over $2,000 for a 20-cent base wager.
Photo - the Had to Be Valiant winning team - New Image Media Photo
Trainer Joe Tavares and jockey Corry Beland combined for two winners, including another victory for the exciting 3-year-old gelding MY ROYAL SWINGER, who has won all four of his races this year since he was purchased last fall at an Oklahoma sale by Tavares for just $4,500. The prestigious Picov Derby is expected to be the next target for My Royal Swinger.
Racing continues at Ajax Downs next Wednesday, August 5 with the final of the PRINCESS DERBY, featuring the year's current top 3-year-old, CHILLIN WITH PEEPS. The first race is set for 3:30 p.m.
For more news, a free pocket program, or to reserve a picnic table for busier days, visit www.ajaxdowns.com. To find out how you can become a Quarter Horse owner, contact the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario at (905) 426-7050.
Replay of the Ontario Bred Futurity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6CrTXtiA-k
Source: Ajax Downs