In the world of harness racing, the name Ponda Jewel is quickly becoming synonymous with excellence. Following in the footsteps of the legendary Msnaughtybynature, who dominated Indiana's racing circuit from 2009 to 2010, this young filly has already captured the attention of racing enthusiasts. Purchased by Peter and Melanie Wrenn, Ponda Jewel has shown remarkable promise early in her career, reminiscent of her predecessor’s illustrious performances. With impressive victories under her belt, she is poised to make a significant impact on the upcoming racing season.
Peter Wrenn recalls the days of Msnaughtybynature fondly, noting that while speed has evolved since then, the current champion in training shows immense potential. Unlike her predecessor, Ponda Jewel has already achieved times faster than 1:56, setting new standards for her division. Her recent performance at Harrah’s Hoosier Park, where she completed a race in 1:54.4, underscored her burgeoning talent. What truly sets her apart is not just her time but also her commanding lead over competitors, finishing races with substantial margins such as 7½, 10¾, and 8¾ lengths.
Although still maturing, Ponda Jewel has made rapid progress. Initially struggling with immaturity issues during her debut last September, she has since developed into a more composed athlete. According to Peter, the turning point came around March when everything began to align for her. This transformation was evident in her recent series of victories, including an opening round triumph in the Mya Tri series, named after another celebrated trotting filly. In each race, Ponda Jewel demonstrated her prowess, leading from start to finish and captivating audiences with her effortless style.
The veteran driver describes driving Ponda Jewel as an exhilarating experience, highlighting her focus and determination once engaged in a race. Despite her promising start, Peter plans to skip certain events like the Msnaughtybynature series to concentrate on larger stakes campaigns ahead. He emphasizes the importance of pacing her development throughout the long season, aiming for sustained success rather than immediate accolades.
Ponda Jewel represents a beacon of hope for the future of Indiana's racing program. As part of a lineage that includes notable names like Aperfectcrystal and Aperfectyankee, she carries the legacy forward with grace and power. With careful management and continued growth, she could emerge as a headline act by the end of the year, much like her predecessor did years ago. The excitement surrounding her potential continues to build, promising thrilling races ahead for fans and participants alike.