Thundering Blue early favourite at Pattison Canadian International
TORONTO — Johnny Bear has defied the odds before.
The seven-year-old Ontario-bred gelding is the co-fourth choice at early 8/1 odds for the $800,000 Pattison Canadian International turf race Saturday at Woodbine Racetrack. But that’s of little concern to co-owner John Burness.
After all, Johnny Bear has won the last two Grade 1 $300,000 Northern Dancer races over the International course and mile-and-a-half distance. The second victory came Sept. 15.
“That’s OK,” Burness said Wednesday following the race draw at Woodbine. “If you’re betting any money on him, it’s even better if he’s a longer shot and comes through.”