Desert Encounter completes four-timer with repeat win in Canadian International

Desert Encounter won the Pattison Canadian International for the second year in a row at Woodbine. The David Simcock-trained 7-year-old beat Thundering Blue to win last year's Grade 1. Abdulla Al Mansoori's star made up ground steadily for Andrea Atzeni after his tardy start. He beat Alounak by half a length. King Power Racing's Pivoine finished fourth. Philip Robinson, Abdolla's racing manager, didn't rule out another return trip to Wood bine in 2020.

Desert Encounter won his fourth consecutive race. Atzeni was fourth in the Grade 1 E.P. Taylor Stakes at Woodbine. The Nearctic Stake was won by the Michael Keogh-trained City Boy. Woody Creek finished fifth.