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WINNIPEG, MB - August 5, 2025 — The 77th running of the $125,000 Manitoba Derby delivered a thrilling night of live racing, with a massive crowd on hand and record-breaking wagering across the board on the seven-race card.
Wagering on the Manitoba Derby, which went as the sixth race on the card, reached $323,267, while total wagering for the evening topped $3,974,168, setting a new Derby record at Assiniboia Downs and the second highest handle in the track’s history. The previous Derby wagering record was set just one year ago with an eight-race program.
A major part of the excitement came from the ASD Jackpot Pick 5, which entered the evening with a carryover of $465,218. Fans responded in a big way, pushing new money wagering past $2 million. A winning 20-cent Jackpot Pick 5 ticket paid $2,469.46.
The winner of the 77th Manitoba Derby was #4 Attack, who paid $14.50 to win after heavy favourite #7 Take Charge Tom, who crossed the finish line first, was disqualified for interference shortly after leaving the gate. Attack, a 3-year-old Kentucky-bred gelding by Munnings, is owned by a partnership that includes Highfield Investment Group, Inc., Dialed In Racing Stable, Bruce Appleyard, Jamie Graham, Lucky Diamonds Racing, Smokin Guns Stable, James and Robert Bauder, and John and Leslie O’Neill. Attack is trained by Craig Robert Smith, and was ridden to victory by N’Rico Prescod, adding their names to the prestigious Derby history books.
The stellar race card was highlighted by two additional stakes. The $50,000 Escape Clause Stakes was won by #8 Bling Dancer, trained by Robert Van Overschot for JDP Holdings Ltd. And the $50,000 Harvey Warner Manitoba Mile was won by favoured #3 Judo, trained by Steve Keplin, Jr. and ridden by Sven Balroop.
“The atmosphere tonight was electric,” said Darren Dunn, CEO of Assiniboia Downs. “To see record wagering, a packed house, and a beautiful summer evening for racing — it was the kind of night that showcases everything great about this sport and this racetrack. We are so grateful to our fans, horsepeople, and staff who helped make this a truly historic Manitoba Derby.”
Live racing continues at Assiniboia Downs on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, with select Mondays throughout the remainder of the 2025 meet.
For more information, please visit ASDowns.com.
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