Poulin in O T Returns to Woodbine for Bold Venture Stakes
Multiple stakes winner Poulin in O T is poised to contest the Grade 3 Bold Venture Stakes at Woodbine, a significant event scheduled as one of six stakes races on King’s Plate Saturday. This appearance follows his recent triumph in the Pink Lloyd Stakes on July 5, where he showcased remarkable tenacity. The Bold Venture, a 6 1/2-furlong race on the main track, will feature three-year-olds and older, offering Poulin in O T an opportunity to add a graded victory to his distinguished career.
Details of the Upcoming Race and Poulin in O T's Journey
On August 13, 2026, Poulin in O T will once again grace the track at Woodbine, engaging in a fierce competition with seven other contenders in the Grade 3 Bold Venture. Trainer Steven Owens, who also co-owns and co-bred the horse, expressed unwavering confidence in Poulin in O T's abilities. He mentioned, “I thought they would have to run to beat him, that it would take a really good horse to get the better of him. He has always worked with a target in front of him and I am not afraid to have someone else take the lead. He’s very game down the lane and he has great turn speed.” Owens briefly considered entering his star in Sunday’s Vice Regent Stakes, a five-furlong inner turf test for Ontario-bred three-year-olds and up, but ultimately chose the Bold Venture.
The six-year-old son of Reload, out of the mare Town Dance, has a stellar career record of 9 wins, 2 seconds, and 6 thirds from 23 starts. His journey has been marked by resilience, including two ankle surgeries. Dr. Orlaith Cleary performed a critical surgery last May, which involved removing a bone fragment from his ankle, followed by an eight-month recovery period. This meticulous care and patience paid off with a sharp starter-allowance win at Gulfstream earlier this year, earning him an 80 Beyer Speed Figure. His return to Woodbine on May 3 saw him finish third in the Thorncliffe Stakes, a 5 1/2-furlong race. Owens noted he had the horse a bit too heavy then, making adjustments for subsequent races.
Poulin in O T made a memorable debut on June 24, 2022, securing a dominant 5 1/4-length victory in a 4 1/2-furlong race. He quickly advanced to stakes racing, winning the Victoria Stakes by 3 1/4 lengths on July 17. His rookie season concluded with an impressive 4-1-0 record from six starts, earning him recognition as a Sovereign finalist in the champion two-year-old male category. Owens and his partner, trainer Tara Neigel, are actively involved in the horse's daily care, ensuring his well-being. “We are very hands-on with him,” Owens affirmed, highlighting their gratitude for such a remarkable athlete.
Another notable competitor in the Bold Venture is Western Whirl, a five-year-old bay gelding by Twirling Candy, bred by Chiefswood Stable. Trained by Stuart Simon, Western Whirl has consistently performed at graded levels, securing a third-place finish in the Jacques Cartier (G3) on May 30 and a second in the Highlander Stakes (G2) on June 27. Simon believes the main track or outer turf suits Western Whirl better than the inner turf, making the Bold Venture an ideal choice. With a record of 3 wins, 5 seconds, and 5 thirds from 19 starts, Western Whirl is described as an “honest type of horse” who is in excellent condition, training exceptionally well for this upcoming challenge.
This event promises an exciting display of talent, featuring a field of seasoned contenders eager to leave their mark on King’s Plate Saturday.
The narrative of Poulin in O T's remarkable resilience and comeback is truly inspiring. It underscores the profound dedication required in equestrian sports, not only from the horses themselves but also from their trainers and entire support teams. The meticulous care, strategic planning, and unwavering belief in an athlete's potential, even after significant setbacks like surgery, resonate deeply. This story is a testament to the fact that with proper recovery, rehabilitation, and a tailored approach, champions can indeed return stronger than before. It also highlights the intricate balance between pushing for performance and ensuring the long-term well-being of these magnificent animals. The upcoming Bold Venture Stakes is more than just a race; it's a celebration of perseverance and the enduring spirit of competition.