PRESS RELEASE

Maryland Magic’s victory in one of the featured races at Ajax Downs on Monday was a poignant moment for the Quarter Horse racing industry in Ontario.

The talented colt’s win in the 400-yard allowance race was dedicated to Amber Hicks, a close friend and supporter of the horse’ s owner Milena Kwiecien. Hicks escaped the Las Vegas, Nevada shooting at a country music concert on Sunday but several people seated next to her at the concert did not survive.

Kwiecien, William Taggart (Hicks’ partner) and his mother Belinda of Oakwood, ON, attended the races at Ajax on Monday and dedicated the win by Maryland Magic to Hicks.

“She is a wonderful girl who has always been supportive of Quarter Horse Racing,” said Kwiecien.”She is part of a syndicate with us for another horse and I am hoping to get her more involved. I knew she was in Vegas but didn’t know she was at the concert. It must have been horrific.”

Maryland Magic, a stallion prospect for Ontario for Kwiecien, was ridden to victory by Ramiro Castillo, the leading rider at Ajax Downs.

Next Monday, October 9, s a big day at Ajax with two major stakes races including the $95,000 Alex Picov Championship featuring the season’s top Quarter Horse, Country Boy 123. There is also a pumpkin giveaway for young racing fans. Post time is 12:55 p.m.

For more information please go to www.ajaxdowns.com