KINGSTON, Jamaica – With the 1000 and 2000 Guineas, along with the St Leger now decided, the spotlight shifts to the two remaining Classic races for three-year-olds — the Jamaica Derby (August 6), regarded as the blue riband event, and the fillies-only Jamaica Oaks (August 2).
Quickgallopja.com examines the likely contenders for both the Derby and the Oaks, assuming all mentioned horses are fit and ready to compete.
DERBY HOPEFULS
I DREAM AGAIN - Winner of the St Leger on July 6, I Dream Again is rapidly progressing since turning three on June 5. Reportedly in great shape post-victory, he's a confirmed Derby starter if all remains well.
SENSATIONAL SOUL - Despite a disappointing St Leger performance, he has resumed morning workouts, signalling Derby preparation.
BOB THE BUILDER - Set the early pace in the St Leger before fading late. Should be Derby bound.
BIG BUZZ - Finished seventh in the St Leger and could improve on that with another try in the Derby.
LOCKDOWN - Underperformed in the St Leger. The Derby is his final opportunity at Classic glory.
STRONG MIND - Expectations were high, but his St Leger run was flat. A Derby attempt might salvage his season.
NUCLEAR JET - An exciting new prospect who has not yet raced in any Classics. Developing fast and likely to be entered in the Derby.
PRINCE ROY - May serve a strategic role by setting the pace for stablemate I Dream Again.
MARK MY IDENTITY - Showed early promise over longer distances. Recently seen in training and could be Derby-bound.
BENEISON - A Derby run would be a no-risk move, offering potential upside.
BURNING HEDGE - Third in the St Leger after a strong closing run. Connections face a pivotal decision — go for the Derby or the Oaks. She would be a leading contender in either race.
OAKS ASPIRANTS
BURNING HEDGE - Third in the St Leger after a strong closing run. Connections face a pivotal decision — go for the Derby or the Oaks. She would be a leading contender in either race.
PRETTY PERFECT - Closed well to finish sixth in the St Leger. Her best shot may lie in the Oaks.
MIGHTY GULLY - Suited to the fillies-only competition and expected to go for the Oaks.
LINGUIST - A standout candidate for the Oaks.
DUTCHESS - Her form suggests the Oaks as the preferred option.
ENTHUSIASM - Will be better placed among her peers in the Oaks.
DANKA - All signs point to an Oaks campaign.
RULED OUT
HANSA - Following a valiant run in the St Leger, she sustained a fractured cannon bone and is now headed to the breeding shed.
