KINGSTON, Jamaica - Trainer Carlton Cunningham expressed high praise for jockey Shane Richardson after Millinium Star's victory in the $700,000 Reggae Medley Trophy at Caymanas Park on October 12, 2024.
Millinium Star made a strong comeback, easily winning by 4 lengths in the three-year-old and upward Optional Claiming ($250,000-$200,000) event, which featured six-year-olds and upward (non-winners of three) and native-bred five-year-olds and upward (non-winners of two) over 7 furlongs (1,400m).
Cunningham spoke about the successful partnership he has forged with Richardson, citing three wins out of four rides. He explained that the single loss was due to unforeseen circumstances, as the horse developed a stone squeeze close to the finish, resulting in a fourth-place finish.
Cunningham specifically highlighted Richardson's exceptional rides on Crimson, Speedie Hare, and now Millinium Star, emphasizing the jockey's unwavering dedication during morning training sessions. He expressed his appreciation for jockeys who prioritize mutual success and eagerly anticipates their continued winning collaborations.
Millinium Star clinched the victory ahead of Six Avenue ridden by Calvin Bailey and Silent Cat ridden by Tevin Foster, achieving a time of 1:31.0. The five-year-old bay mare, bred by Storm Craft out of the Deputy Glitters mare Running Star, has secured two wins in 30 starts, accumulating lifetime earnings exceeding $2.1 million.
