The 2026 Pepsi North America Cup is set to be a thrilling showdown at Woodbine Mohawk Park on June 13th, with a star-studded lineup of horses and drivers. The $1 million Grade 1 race is the main event, but several other prominent stakes throughout the evening will provide plenty of excitement. Here's a breakdown of some key storylines and contenders, with a focus on the Pepsi North America Cup itself.
The Pepsi North America Cup: A Battle of the Best
The 43rd edition of this prestigious race features a strong field of 10 horses, each with their own unique story and chances of victory. Here's a closer look at some of the key players:
Odds On Mr Mamba: This three-year-old pacer is the fastest in harness racing history, with a 1:47.4 score last year. He's won nine of 10 starts and is a strong favorite, despite some concerns about his steering. Driver James MacDonald will be key to his success.
Sweet Lovin Lou: Another three-year-old, Sweet Lovin Lou won her elimination and earned a post position in the final. She's a force to be reckoned with, and her trainer, Dan Lagace, has high hopes for her performance.
Beau Jangles: The reigning Horse of the Year, Beau Jangles, suffered his first loss in the elimination but will look to rebound. Trainer Dr. Ian Moore is confident in his horse's ability to bounce back.
Melillo: Posted in position one, Melillo is trained by Ron Burke and will be driven by 2025 Cup winner Ronnie Wrenn Jr. He's a strong contender, especially with Burke's history of success in this race.
Lindy Dragonwater: The 2025 Ohio Sire Stakes champion, Lindy Dragonwater, draws post six. With Jason Bartlett on the reins, she's a horse to watch.
Azrael Blue Chip: Making his Cup debut, Azrael Blue Chip starts from post seven. Driver Andy McCarthy and trainer Besim Odza will be looking to make an impact.
Brandon Blvd: A major player in the Cup, Brandon Blvd has nine wins in 13 starts. However, he drew post 10, which could be a challenge.
No Waitlist: Local hopeful No Waitlist drew post nine, giving owner Tim Dickieson, trainer Blake MacIntosh, and driver Doug McNair a chance to make a splash.
Redland Rocket Man: Looking for an upset, Redland Rocket Man starts from post two. First-time Cup starter John Pentland will be key to his success.
Other Stakes Highlights
While the Pepsi North America Cup is the main event, several other stakes throughout the evening will provide plenty of excitement:
Fan Hanover Stakes: World champion Loua Dipa leads a deep field, with Be Perfect BG and Perfect Thought also in the mix.
Roses Are Red Stakes: A battle of the older pacing mares, featuring Chris Ryder's one-two punch of Miki And Minnie and Twin B Joe Fresh.
Armbro Flight Stakes: An overflow field of 11 will clash, with Dan Patch Award winner Warrawee Michelle and Stormont Beautiful among the contenders.
Goodtimes Stakes: The Svanstedt stable could get off to a hot start with Magic Punk, who cruised to a 1:52.1 victory in his elimination.
Mohawk Gold Cup Invitational: A field of the 10 best Open pacers will clash, led by Ervin Hanover and Prince Hal Hanover.
In conclusion, the 2026 Pepsi North America Cup promises to be a thrilling race, with a strong field of horses and drivers. The stakes throughout the evening will provide plenty of excitement, making it a must-watch event for harness racing fans.
