For Opinion, click here for View from the Racetrack Grandstand

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Takter named Breeders Crown Most Valuable Trainer

by Ken Weingartner, Harness Racing Communications

Toronto --- Jimmy Takter, who entered Saturday’s $6.2 million Breeders Crown as the all-time leader in purse earnings in the history of the championship series, exited the festivities at Woodbine Racetrack with three trophies and the Breeders Crown Most Valuable Trainer Award, sponsored by Walsh Products.

Takter, who had $6.3 million in Breeders Crown earnings entering Saturday, won titles with American Jewel in the 3-year-old filly pace, To Dream On in the 2-year-old filly trot and Rockin Amadeus in the 2-year-old colt pace. He also finished second with Little Brown Fox in the 3-year-old colt trot.

With his three victories, Takter moved into a tie with Bob McIntosh for most wins in Breeders Crown history. Both Hall of Fame trainers have won 15 Crowns.

Takter totaled 53 points with his eight entries, three wins, one second and 10 of the 15 subjective points. Linda Toscano, who won trophies with Chapter Seven in the Open Trot and Heston Blue Chip in the 3-year-old colt pace, finished second with 35 points. Ron Burke, who won last year’s inaugural award, was third.