Paramount Prince Claims Seagram Cup Victory at Woodbine
Paramount Prince recently delivered a commanding performance, clinching the Grade 3 Seagram Cup at Woodbine. The horse, guided by jockey Fraser Aebly, showcased remarkable class and tenacity, navigating a competitive field to emerge victorious in a thrilling photo finish. This win not only highlights Paramount Prince's enduring talent but also adds another significant achievement to trainer Mark Casse's impressive record, marking his fifth victory in this prestigious race.
The race, held on Saturday, August 2, 2026, saw Paramount Prince, the 2023 King's Plate champion, break from post 9 with exceptional quickness. He swiftly took the lead in the 1 1/16-mile synthetic-track event, setting a brisk pace with an opening quarter-mile in 23.82 seconds. Jockey Fraser Aebly maintained a relaxed yet confident demeanor as Paramount Prince continued to dictate the pace, clocking a half-mile in 47.77 seconds. Challengers like Twin City, Sedsburys Ghost, and favorite Runaway Again closely trailed, preparing for their moves.
As the race progressed into the far turn, Mansetti, the 2025 King's Plate winner and reigning Canada Horse of the Year, initiated a powerful wide rally under Pietro Moran, rapidly gaining ground. However, Paramount Prince, expertly cutting the corner into the stretch, preserved his energy. Despite Mansetti's strong surge, he began to fade, leaving Paramount Prince to brace for a renewed challenge from Runaway Again, a familiar rival who had bested him in the Dominion Day Stakes (G3) on June 27.
The final moments of the race were a dramatic display of competitive spirit. Paramount Prince and Runaway Again engaged in a fierce duel down the stretch, with both horses pushing to their limits. In a nail-biting photo finish, Paramount Prince, trained by Mark Casse, ultimately edged out Runaway Again, securing the win with a final time of 1:43.24. This victory marks Paramount Prince's third career triumph at 8 1/2 furlongs and significantly boosts his lifetime record to 9 wins, 3 seconds, and 7 thirds from 24 starts. Bred in Ontario by Ericka Rusnak and owned by Michael J. Langlois and Gary Barber, Paramount Prince, a six-year-old chestnut gelding by Society's Chairman, continues to prove his status as a formidable competitor in horse racing.
In summary, Paramount Prince's recent Seagram Cup win at Woodbine underscores his consistent high-level performance and strategic racing. Under the guidance of Fraser Aebly, the horse demonstrated remarkable control and a powerful closing surge, cementing his place as a top contender. This victory not only adds to his impressive resume but also highlights the strategic prowess of trainer Mark Casse, who continues to achieve record-breaking success in the sport.