North American News

North America Cup Wide Open After Elimination Drama

For much of the season, the narrative surrounding the $1 million 2026 North America Cup seemed straightforward. Beau Jangles (Cattlewash) was unbeaten, dominant and looked every bit the superstar poised to add another major title to an already glittering résumé.

Then came elimination night at Woodbine Mohawk Park.

Instead of confirming Beau Jangles as the undisputed king of the three-year-old pacing division, the eliminations created exactly what harness racing fans were hoping for – uncertainty.

And that uncertainty has transformed this year’s North America Cup into one of the most fascinating editions in recent memory.

The biggest talking point was undoubtedly the defeat of Beau Jangles. While losing his unbeaten record grabbed the headlines, the performance itself was far from disappointing. Forced to work hard against quality opposition, he was still fighting strongly deep into the stretch before being overhauled late by Odds On Mr Mamba.

If anything, the loss may have added another layer of intrigue to the final.

Given a patient drive by James MacDonald, Odds On Mr Mamba unleashed a devastating finishing burst to score in 1:48.2 and announce himself as a genuine North America Cup contender. The victory improved his record to nine wins from ten career starts and demonstrated that his world championship credentials are more than justified.

The impressive part wasn’t simply that he won. It was how he won.

His acceleration through the final stages was exceptional and perhaps gave fans a glimpse of the strongest finishing kick in the field.

MacDonald also partnered the winner of the other elimination, Sweet Lovin Lou, creating one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the final.

Sweet Lovin Lou’s first-over victory may have been the toughest effort of the night. Sitting patiently early, MacDonald moved the son of Sweet Lou into the race before he powered past quality rivals to score in the identical time of 1:48.2.

Trainer Dan Lagace has spent considerable time teaching the colt to settle and relax, and the results are now becoming evident. The raw speed has always been there. Now the maturity appears to be catching up.

Both elimination winners looked capable of winning the final and both enter the race in career-best form.

Away from the headline acts, several others emerged from the eliminations with their credentials enhanced. Brandon Blvd was excellent in defeat behind Odds On Mr Mamba, while Al Papi displayed courage in his elimination.

A fascinating final awaits on Saturday night.

Adding further international interest to Cup night is the Roses Are Red final, where New Zealand-bred Louies Girl N continues her remarkable rise through the North American ranks.

The daughter of Lord Forbes has developed into one of the continent’s leading mares and again showcased her toughness when winning her elimination despite a demanding first-over journey. With seven wins from nine starts this season, she has become a genuine Grand Circuit performer and gives Australasian fans a horse to cheer for on one of North America’s biggest nights.

Miki And Minnie and Twin B Joe Fresh who have been the mares benchmarks the last year or so are the main dangers.

by Bevan Greig for Harnesslink