There was an emotional buzz around Woodbine on Saturday as Haunted Dream (IRE) announced himself on the North American stage in sensational style, storming home to claim the Grade 3 $150,000 Singspiel Stakes. Trainer Hamad Al-Jehani’s camp erupted with joy, and jockey Rafael Hernandez, who produced a masterful ride, celebrated with a fist pump as the well-traveled grey crossed the line 1 ½ lengths clear.
“It was magical,” said assistant trainer Thomas Allen, fighting back a grin as he hugged Hernandez after the race. “He’s a yard favourite, and to see him do this here, on his debut, is just incredible.”
A Perfect Trip and a Powerful Finish
Breaking from post six, Roscar was sharpest into stride and went straight to the lead, closely tracked by Legal Catch and Dancin in Da’nile. Meanwhile, Hernandez cleverly tucked Haunted Dream (IRE) into fourth, conserving energy while keeping a keen eye on the pace up front.
Legal Catch dictated early fractions, leading narrowly through a quarter in :24.61 and a half-mile in :50.05, but Roscar kept the pressure on, forcing an honest tempo.
As they swung into the far turn, Hernandez asked Haunted Dream to quicken — and the six-year-old veteran responded instantly. Sweeping seven wide with an electrifying burst, the son of Oasis Dream (GB) surged past his rivals, powering home to stop the clock in 2:15.40 on firm ground.
Tosen Wish (IRE) made a late dash to grab second, a half-length ahead of Dancin in Da’nile, while Venencia (FR) finished fourth.
Hernandez Delivers Again on a Big Stage
For Hernandez, it capped a memorable day after earlier guiding Aristella to victory in the $250,000 Wonder Where Stakes. The rider praised Haunted Dream’s temperament and stamina.
“In the post parade, he was buzzing with energy, but he relaxed beautifully once the gates opened,” Hernandez said. “We saved ground early, gave him a clear path on the backside, and once I got him rolling, he did the rest. He’s a special horse.”
A Well-Traveled Star Shines in Canada
Trained by Hamad Al-Jehani and representing Wathnan Racing, Haunted Dream’s resume already boasts a string of high-class victories, including back-to-back wins in the Group 3 Al Safliya Cup in Qatar (2023-24).
“It’s been an amazing journey bringing him here,” Allen added. “The facilities are outstanding, and the reception we’ve had from Woodbine has been incredible. This win means a lot to the whole team.”
Bred in Ireland by High Rollers, Haunted Dream is by Oasis Dream (GB) out of the Galileo (IRE) mare Red Halo (IRE). The gelding has now compiled a record of 9 wins, 10 seconds, and 6 thirds from 39 career starts.
Haunted Dream’s North American Debut Turns Spectacular
For Wathnan Racing, this was more than just a win; it was a statement. A bold travel plan, executed perfectly, delivered an unforgettable debut for Haunted Dream on Canadian soil. Given his turn of foot and tactical adaptability, the Grade 3 Singspiel Stakes may only be the beginning of his North American campaign.
Haunted Dream (IRE) produced a sensational performance to win the Grade 3 Singspiel Stakes at Woodbine on his North American debut, powering home for trainer Hamad Al-Jehani and jockey Rafael Hernandez.
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