2009 Lakeland Derby
Race Results
Winner:
SINDY 2
Owner: Rooms To Go Children's Fund
Jockeys: Joseph Herring & Justin Miller
2nd Place:
SWAN SONG 7
Owner: Hall Communications, Inc.
Jockeys: Roger Todd & Melissa Moran
3rd Place:
WHIRLAWAY 5
Owner: Burnetti Children’s Foundation
Jockeys: Ashley Burnetti & Brittany Burnetti
The second running of the Lakeland Derby proved to be as exciting as the first. Pre race favorite SINDY, jockeyed by Joseph Herring and Justin Miller and owned by Rooms To Go Children’s Fund mantled their second consecutive champions trophy.
The 2009 Lakeland Derby once again drew thousands of spectators to the shores of Lake Mirror. After a clean start by all ten swan boats, the top three finishers dashed through the first leg and widened the gap at the midway point from the field.
The final leg of annual Derby was captured by the 08 champion "SINDY" coasting easily to a first place victory. Coming in a close second place was none other than "Swan Song", owned by Hall Communications, Inc. and jockeyed by Roger Todd and Melissa Moran. Showing at 3rd place was "WHIRLAWAY". This young swan was owned by Burnetti Children’s Foundation and piloted by two veteran jockeys, Ashley Burnetti & Brittany Burnetti.
Once the waters calmed, a new legacy was born. “SINDY” proved to be a top performer for the second year in a row with a victory over what arguably could be one of the strongest fields in swan boat racing.
The results have been posted as official. Owners, jockeys, and spectators alike are anxiously awaiting the 2010 Derby. Many will be interested in the pre race odds, as The Lakeland Derby will be sure to attract some of the best swans and jockeys in the Central Florida region.
Inaugural Maiden Handicap
The Maiden Handicap was the first event on the racing schedule and included entrants from area high school Key and service clubs. Lakeland High School’s “Reptar”, ridden by teacher Stacey Huey and student Tess Tapia came in first place.
Entrants from area high schools included:
George Jenkins
All Saints’ Academy
Lake Gibson
Mulberry
Kathleen
Tenoroc
Harrison School of the Arts