Rookie trainer set for quarter horse debut in Ajax Downs’ second race Wednesday

Michelle Olson set a goal for herself a few years ago to own and train a Quarter Horse to race at Ajax Downs. The young horsewoman and former ironworker will realize that dream as she will start her 3-year-old filly Gin Xpress in race 2 on Wednesday, the fourth racing card of the 2023 Ajax Downs meeting.

“I’m super excited and naturally nervous about my first career start as a trainer and Ginny’s first-lifetime race,” said Olson, who lives in Peterborough and has trained standardbreds as well since 2021. “She has been feeling good since her last workout, but I try not to put big expectations on a first-time starter.”

Olson was horse-crazy as a child and has worked in Ontario horse racing for more than a decade. She started in the Quarter Horse business five years ago as an exercise rider and assistant trainer for her close friend, owner and trainer Amanda McCormack.

Just over a month ago Olson wrote and passed her trainer’s test at Ajax Downs.

Gin Xpress was bred by McCormack and the filly is a daughter of successful Ontario stallion Sugarman Perry and the younger half-sister of Bodacious Tataz, who McCormack is entering in the fourth race Wednesday. Brian Bell, one of Ajax Downs’ long-time leading jockeys, will be aboard Gin Xpress on Wednesday from post 6 in the 300-yard maiden race.

“I hope for a good experience [for her], a good break, and a strong, clean run,” said Olson.

First race post time for the May 31 card is 1:30 p.m.

With files from Jennifer Morrison