Montague’s Corey MacPherson wins his first Gold Cup and Saucer with Miki Shan N, honouring his late grandfather in Charlottetown’s $100,000 race.
Historic Victory at Charlottetown
Montague driver Corey MacPherson achieved a career milestone Saturday night as he and his horse, Miki Shan N, captured the 66th running of the Gold Cup and Saucer in Charlottetown. The prestigious harness race, which drew thousands of spectators, carried a $100,000 prize purse.
First Gold Cup Win for MacPherson
For MacPherson, the triumph marked his first-ever Gold Cup and Saucer victory, a coveted title among Canadian harness racers. Guiding Miki Shan N to the finish line in 1:51.2, MacPherson edged out rival Poseidon Seelster, driven by Bob McClure, who finished second, while Bee Two Bee, driven by Jason Hughes, claimed third place.
A Race with Family Ties
The win carried deep personal meaning. MacPherson said he was thinking of his late grandfather, Glenn Taylor, a respected horseman who died in 2013. Taylor introduced him to racing at an early age and inspired his career. “Oh yeah, he followed me the whole time,” MacPherson said, reflecting on the victory. “When I was a little kid, he always had horses around. I caught the bug early.”
Strategy and Execution
MacPherson credited his strategy for the decisive win, noting that he closely tracked Poseidon Seelster before seizing an opening. “All Gold Cups are a scramble at the start before the horses settle in,” he explained. “I knew Poseidon Seelster was the horse to follow, and it worked out perfectly.”
Emotional Finish Under the Lights
As the crowd roared, Miki Shan N surged past the leader, delivering a moment MacPherson described as spiritual. “He’s saying just good job, he patted me on the back,” MacPherson said of his grandfather. The emotional triumph was a defining chapter in his racing journey, blending personal legacy with professional achievement.