The seventh race on the Boxing Day 11-race programme pays tribute to the distinguished thoroughbred Hover Craft, who for many years showcased his talent at Caymanas Park.
The Hover Craft Trophy is restricted to locally bred three-year-olds (non-winners of two races) and imported three-year-old maidens.
Seven horses are entered to contest the one-mile event.
Below is The Quick Galloper’s assessment of the likely outcome, listed in post-position order.
1 – NO APOLOGY
Since stepping into the non-winners of two category on June 29, No Apology has struggled to make an impact. Little improvement is anticipated on Boxing Day.
2 – PRETTY BROWN TING
This filly has been a model of consistency across her seven non-two starts. Her Achilles heel remains her slow departure from the gates, but she compensates with a powerful finishing burst in the stretch. The mile distance should suit her well, making Pretty Brown Ting a contender worthy of respect.
3 – HE’S SENSATIONAL
After shedding the maiden tag on September 28, He’s Sensational has found life at the non-two-level challenging. More time is needed for him to adjust to the higher standard of competition.
4 – CHOO BLUE
With only one run at this level, Choo Blue is still in the early stages of development and has much to prove.
5 – COSALIVIN
Frequently tested against the best of the three-year-old crop, Cosalivin has shown flashes of progress. Her main obstacle is sustaining the mile trip effectively at this stage. Although her lone victory came at the distance, the calibre of rivals here presents a different challenge. Cosalivin looks a solid choice for the exacta.
6 – MIDNIGHT RUNNER
Since entering this class on September 6, Midnight Runner has offered little to suggest competitiveness. Facing these rivals will be a stern task. Note: she races without the visor this time.
7 – ROARING KITTY
Gradually finding her rhythm at the non-two level, Roaring Kitty should relish the mile distance given her late-running style. Trainer adjustments—removing cheek pieces and adding blinkers—signal intent for improvement. A better showing is expected.
THE QUICK GALLOPER’S VERDICT
Pretty Brown Ting is the most reliable pick to win at the mile, with Cosalivin the preferred exacta partner. Roaring Kitty, with equipment changes and a late kick, shapes as the key for trifecta plays. He’s Sensational is the next best for minor money, while Choo Blue remains a work in progress. No Apology and Midnight Runner are hard to recommend on current form.
