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Stay up-to-date with the latest news from Assiniboia Downs.

ISSUE #191 - JULY 4, 2025

Trainer Mike Nault and owners A2 Thoroughbreds and True North Thoroughbreds in the winner's circle after their victory in the Frank Arnason Sire Stakes. (Jason Halstead / Assiniboia Photo)

Antonio Whitehall Gets Hot, Wins Five Races Including Frank Arnason Sire Stakes


Antonio Whitehall was the hot jockey in a lightning-shortened week of racing that saw Tuesday’s Canada Day card canceled after the first race. Whitehall dead-heated for the win in the only race on Tuesday and came back to win four races on Wednesday, including the $40,000 Frank Arnason Sire Stakes.


And if he hadn't won the last race on Wednesday, the $1 Pick 4 would have paid over $100,000!


CLICK HERE to read more.

Live Racing this Tuesday & Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.


Live racing continues every Tuesday and Wednesday evening along with select Mondays (July 14, August 4, August 25, and September 15). Post time is 7:30 p.m.—and as always, admission and parking are free! New to racing or need a refresher on how to bet? Visit Shannon and Brad at the Fan Education Centre on the main level—they’re happy to help and answer all your questions.


CLICK HERE for schedule

prime-rib-buffet-dinner-2.jpg

Live Racing Prime Rib Buffet


Get ready to indulge in the ultimate dining experience at the track. Savour melt-in-your-mouth Certified Angus Prime Rib carved to perfection, plus a delicious variety of chicken and seafood dishes, rotating entrée selections, and so much more! Adults: $59.95, Seniors (65+): $54.95, Kids (6–12): $34.95, Kids (5 & under): $22.95. Call 204-885-3330 to reserve your table.

Frank Arnason Sire Stakes winner Betterlucknexttime gets a pat from jockey Antonio Whitehall as Mike Nault's assistant trainer Brittany Bergen leads him into the winner's circle. (Jason Halstead / Assiniboia Photo) Click photo to enlarge.

Looking for a Special Photo?

Track Photographer Jason Halstead may have just what you're looking for


Looking for that extra-special photo of your big horse, one you might not find in your win pictures? 


Track photographer Jason Halstead takes numerous photos during the races, and not all of them can make it into the win photos. If you’re looking for something frameable from your big race, or of your special horse, email Jason at jjhphoto@gmail.com.


Prices are excellent! Almost as good as his photos 😊

Click photo to enlarge

A Snapshot in Time by Bob Gates


This photo features A. E. “Bert” Blake on the far left and John Sifton at the head of S. Owen, but they weren’t the reason for choosing this week’s Snapshot in Time. The lad to the right of Mr. Blake will go on to win 12 leading trainer titles at the Downs -- that’s right -- the youngster is none other than Ardell Sayler. The rider by the way is Ardell’s older brother, Vernon who rode here in 1967 and '68, before moving on to test his skills south of the border. Tragically, Vernon was killed in a plane crash in July 1971. (Bob Barnes photo)

The Western Canadian Derby Series offers a $100,000 bonus to any horse that can sweep the Manitoba Derby, Canadian Derby, and BC Derby. Plus a $25,000 owner-trainer bonus based on points.

Western Canadian Derby Series Contenders Begin to Emerge


As the summer heats up, so does the competition on the Western Canadian racing circuit. With a $100,000 Derby Bonus and a $25,000 Owner-Trainer Bonus up for grabs, the 3-year-old talent is beginning to separate from the pack in each province.


With strong contenders emerging from each province and crucial preps on the horizon, the Western Canadian Derby Series is shaping up to be a very competitive edition. The series begins August 5 with the Manitoba Derby, followed by the Canadian Derby on August 23, and concludes with the BC Derby on September 13.


-- Canadian Thoroughbred

Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas outside his barn at Churchill Downs. (Anne M. Eberhardt)

Industry-shaping trainer D. Wayne Lukas Dies at 89


Racing Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas, whose life included many different chapters—nearly all of which shaped today's racing—died June 28 in Louisville, Ky. He was 89.


"Wayne devoted his life not only to horses but to the industry—developing generations of horsemen and horsewomen and growing the game by inviting unsuspecting fans into the winner's circle," Lukas' family said in a statement.


"Whether he was boasting about a maiden 2-year-old as the next Kentucky Derby winner or offering quiet words of advice before a big race, Wayne brought heart, grace, and grit to every corner of the sport."


-- BloodHorse

Fan favourite Coal Battle is 7/2 on the morning-line for the Saturday's $300,000 Indiana Derby. (Coady Media)

Noel’s Weekend Winners: Indiana Oaks Longshot, Fan Fave in the Indiana Derby


Handicapper Noel Michaels takes a look at this Saturday's Indiana Oaks and Indiana Derby.

The Indiana Oaks has drawn a field of six 3-year-old fillies, but even with a short field, the race has longshot potential. And fan favourite Coal Battle is the horse to beat in the Indiana Derby, but he still might be a decent price.


-- AmericasBestRacing

Bob's Blog

The Downs First PR Guy


Another week, another unusual find that turned out to be an inspiration for our blog story. Bob tells us that he was going through some old photos from the '60s and quite by accident found a 65-year-old business card attached to the reverse of one of the frames. A little digging here and there and voilà the week’s history story was born! Click here to learn more about the Downs first PR guy, Bruce Boreham.

Feedback & Inside Track Archives

We would love to hear from you! Email your comments and/or suggestions to theinsidetrack@ASDowns.com.


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