KINGSTON, Jamaica – “After several stakes records, after breaking a track record by three seconds, after being the top earner, after successfully competing against the best around in the Jamaica Cup, and after winning seven races from 10 starts, I did not doubt that the folks voting for the Horse of the Year had only one logical choice, and that was Atomica.”
Those are the words of trainer Gary Subratie, shortly after being informed that his chestnut filly Atomica was declared the 2022 Horse of the Year.
The official announcement confirming Atomica’s status as the 2023 Horse of the Year was made yesterday (Monday, Feb 20, 2023) at a press conference held at Caymanas Park.
Atomica received eight of the 15 available votes, Mahogany – 6, and Excessive Force – 1.
“Atomica’s honour of being named as the 2022 Horse of the Year is special for me as this is the second occasion in the last four years that a horse from my barn, Nipster being the other, is wearing the crown of Horse of the Year.
“In addition, another horse from the stables, Calculus won the 2022 award for the best four-year-old and upwards stayer,” Subratie said.
He further added” “All of the success with Atomica and Calculus would not have been possible without the people who make it work, the grooms, and all those around who put in a shift have done an excellent job in getting the horses ready for their various racing assignments. My final word of thanks belongs to the owner of Atomica, Mr Don Wehby, whose loyal support over the years has ensured the stability and success of the barn. Mr Webhy loves his racing, and it has been a real pleasure training for him and to see how elated he is just by being around Atomica is truly a sublime pleasure. Thanks to all.”
