KINGSTON, Jamaica – Word spread quickly around Caymanas Park that Salute The Don captured the 2000 Guineas on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in a stirring display of grit and determination, winning the Classic mile event despite losing a shoe at the break.
Trainer Gary Subratie confirmed this twist in an interview with The Quick Galloper. “He (Salute The Don) stumbled at the start and lost a shoe. I did not know at the time. To run the entire race without it makes his achievement even more compelling. The shoe was later returned to me by a member of the starting gate crew,” Subratie revealed.
Beyond the mishap, Subratie praised the colt’s courage. “Salute The Don ridden by champion Raddesh Roamn, gave everything and emerged a Classic winner. It is a testament to the investment made by Don Wehby in Jamaica’s racing industry,” he said.
Bred by the late Don Wehby and now owned by his estate, Salute The Don is by his Into Mischief stallion Aveenu Malcainu out of Abicadabby, a mare by Breeders’ Cup champion Ghostzapper.
Subratie also outlined plans for his Guineas trio, Salute The Don, runner-up Stardom, and third-placed God’s Plan, all of whom are being prepared for the 10-furlong St Leger in early July. “They came out of the Guineas in good order. After a brief rest, they will return to training. If all continues to go well, the three will line up in the next Classic, which h is the St Leger,” Subratie confirmed.
