William T is heading into Saturday’s $175,000 HPIbet Autumn Stakes (G3) at Woodbine in top condition. The main track race, covering 1 1/8 miles for horses aged three and older, features six entrants, including William T, who recently won the Durham Cup (G3) over 1 1/16 miles on September 19.
This victory marked the 4-year-old son of Frosted, out of the Hard Spun mare Upper Brass, his first graded stakes win and second straight triumph. Trainer Don MacRae admitted the win was somewhat unexpected since they entered William T late, hoping for a placing but were thrilled when he delivered an outstanding performance. MacRae praised the horse’s determination, noting how William T fought hard despite moments when he seemed to lose ground, showing true grit in the closing strides.
Earlier, on August 23, William T dominated a race at the same distance after it was switched from turf to the main track, winning by 5 ¼ lengths. MacRae had anticipated this victory, acknowledging the horse’s need for races with two turns, which are harder to find but suit him well.
Bred in Ontario by Anderson Farms (Ontario) Inc., William T has a record of 3 wins, 5 seconds, and 2 thirds from 11 starts, amassing $261,487 in earnings. MacRae highlighted recent changes, such as removing William T’s tongue tie, which has helped relax the horse and improve his performance.
Owned by Michael Lay, William T won his first race by six lengths at 1 1/16 miles on Woodbine’s main track in July 2025. Despite not placing in last year’s King’s Plate, he followed with four consecutive second-place finishes before starting his current winning streak. MacRae likened William T’s confident demeanor to a former horse, Civil Code, describing how he enjoys “flexing” around other horses, almost like a show of strength.
Groom Rochelle Fortune spoke warmly about her connection with William T, calling him her “best friend” and expressing gratitude for being trusted to care for him by trainer Don MacRae.
In recent workouts, William T clocked four furlongs in 50 seconds on October 24 and improved to 47.80 seconds a week later. MacRae explained that while the quicker workout was not ideal, he trusts the advice of top trainer Kevin Attard that top horses can handle fast efforts in training. William T’s work over the dirt track was exceptionally impressive, and MacRae hinted at possibly trying dirt races next season due to the horse’s effortless performance.
Some quick facts about the Autumn Stakes: It was first run in 1902, won by the filly Janice. Legendary Kentucky Derby winner and Hall of Famer Exterminator triumphed three years consecutively. In 1991, Francine Villeneuve became the first female jockey to win this race aboard Twist the Snow. Trainer Roger Attfield holds the record with five Autumn Stakes wins.
The Autumn Stakes betting options include Rolling Double, Exacta, $0.20 Trifecta, $0.20 Superfecta, $0.20 Pick 3 (Races 9-10-11), and $1 Swinger.
The six horses entered are:
- Runaway Again – Ryan Munger – Sid Attard
- Wicked Django – Keveh Nicholls – Carlos Grant
- War Court – Emma-Jayne Wilson – Ron Sadler
- Swift Delivery – Pietro Moran – Mark Casse
- William T – Fraser Aebly – Don MacRae
- English Actor – Rafael Hernandez – Rachel Halden
This report originally appeared in the Paulick Report on November 4, 2026.
Fan Take: William T’s rise exemplifies how a well-managed horse can flourish with proper training adjustments and race selection, showcasing the sport’s depth beyond just the marquee names. His promising performances not only excite fans but also highlight the importance of nurturing talent, which is vital for maintaining horse racing’s competitive and thrilling future.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
