With a mere fortnight remaining before the staging of the 2025 Mouttet Mile on 6 December, anticipation is steadily mounting.
The richest race on the Jamaican calendar has once again drawn together a formidable cast of contenders, each putting in the searching gallops that could prove decisive when the gates fly open.
LEGACY ISLE SHOWS INTENT
On Friday, November 21, Legacy Isle, runner-up in last year’s renewal, signalled his readiness with a sharp gallop. Trained by Rohan Crichton, the colt galloped six furlongs from the chute in a brisk 1:12.2. It was a gallop that reminded observers of his proven class and hinted that he may yet go one better this time around.
NAUTICAL STAR AND OF A REVOLUTION IMPRESS
The following day, Saturday November 22, attention turned to the Anthony Nunes yard, where two newcomers to the Jamaican circuit caught the eye.
- Nautical Star, a son of Dixie Chatter out of Kiss Me Chocolate, covered seven furlongs in a rapid 1:25.4. The official clocking, published by the promoting company, confirmed the colt’s readiness to take up his guaranteed berth in the Mile. His performance sparked lively debate among racing enthusiasts, many of whom believe he could be a genuine threat despite his lack of local racecourse experience.
- Of A Revolution, by Maclean’s Music out of Hot Spell, produced an eye-catching display of speed. He galloped four furlongs in 45.1 seconds, before being ridden out to complete five furlongs in 58.3. While his connections are more likely to aim him at the Bruceontheloose – an Open Allowance/Graded Stakes contest for three-year-olds and upwards, his workout nevertheless underscored his raw ability and potential for future success.
WALL STREET TRADER KEEPS STEADY
Also on Saturday, the seasoned campaigner Wall Street Trader maintained his consistency with a five-furlong spin around the turn, stopping the clock at 1:01.3. A familiar presence on the local track, his gallop suggested he remains in good heart and could play a role in the Bruceontheloose, where he is expected to start.
DACOSTA’S STRING ON THE MOVE
By Monday, November 24, it was the turn of champion trainer Jason DaCosta to send his charges through their paces. Among them were several notable names:
- Dothraki galloped six-furlongs timed at 1:13.3. His connections have yet to decide whether he will take his place in the Mouttet Mile or instead contest the Bruceontheloose.
- Funcaandun, last year’s Mouttet Mile hero, showed steady progress with a six-furlong workout in 1:14.1. While not as sharp as some of his rivals, the gallop suggested he is being carefully prepared to peak on the big day.
- Girvano rounded off the DaCosta gallops, clocking 1:14.0 for six furlongs. His effort added further depth to the champion trainer’s arsenal, ensuring his stable will be strongly represented in the upcoming fixtures.
As the countdown continues, the gallops are more than mere exercises; they are statements of intent. And come December 6, only one will emerge triumphant in the richest mile of them all.
