The Diamond Mile returned with a bang on Saturday, July 25, the first staging since 2019, bringing together the finest thoroughbreds currently in training. Thirteen starters faced the starter, including three recent track record breakers, ensuring a contest of rare quality.
FIRST – PHENOMENAL POWER
Having lowered the 7 ½ furlong record on July 4, Phenomenal Power curiously reappeared just two weeks later over six furlongs, where he finished a lacklustre fifth behind Desert of Malibu. That decision puzzled many, with the Diamond Mile looming only a week away. Connections later revealed the July 18 run was nothing more than a prep gallop. On the big day, all doubts were erased. Jockey Tajay Suckoo sent the three-year-old US-bred bay colt straight to the front, and from there he dictated every fraction — 23.2, 45.1, 1:09.0 — before stopping the clock at 1:34.4, a whisker off the mile record. It was a commanding, authoritative performance, stamping Phenomenal Power as a colt of immense promise with scope for further improvement being a three-year-old. It was a first graded stakes success for Suckoo and trainer Adrian Prince.
SECOND – GIRVANO
Breaking from the inside draw, Girvano hugged the rails throughout, saving ground and positioning himself smartly. He entered the straight in about fourth place, then moved steadily forward to finish just a length behind the winner. Importantly, Girvano was conceding 4 lbs to Phenomenal Power, yet still clocked 1:35.0 — a time that deserves respect. This was a strong, honest effort that confirmed his ability to mix it with the best.
THIRD – BARNABY
True to his running style, Barnaby settled at the rear and was barely in camera view turning for home. But once in the straight, he began his familiar late surge, passing rivals to secure third. Barnaby thrives over longer trips, though the local calendar offers few races beyond a mile, limiting his winning opportunities. His stamina remains his greatest asset, and he used it to telling effect here.
FOURTH – ROYAL POPPY
The surprise package of the Diamond Mile. After finishing a distant third on debut July 4, Royal Poppy was dismissed by punters at 35-1. Yet the six-year-old chestnut mare, trained by Gary Subratie, overcame traffic issues to run on gamely for fourth. Her effort was eye-catching, suggesting she may have more to offer in future engagements.
FIFTH – RIDEALLDAY
The reigning star of Caymanas Park endured misfortune at the start, stumbling badly as the gates opened. That mishap ruined his rhythm, and he was never able to recover. Given his record, this was a disappointment, but the circumstances excuse the run. His connections will hope he emerges unscathed to continue his decorated career.
SIXTH – SIR DON
Sir Don settled into mid-pack before holding his position. He did enough to earn for his connections without ever threatening the principals.
SEVENTH – PACK PLAYS
As anticipated, Pack Plays was prominent early, disputing the lead. However, he lacked the finishing kick to stay with the front-runners and faded in the straight. His limitations at the mile were exposed.
EIGHTH – NAUTICAL STAR
Coming off a decisive mile win on June 27, Nautical Star carried expectations into this contest. But he failed to reproduce that form, weakening when the tempo lifted.
NINTH – LEGACY ISLE
The brilliant seven-furlong record holder was undone by the extra distance. He pressed Phenomenal Power early, but when the pace quickened, he had no answer and faded tamely. The late jockey change from champion Raddesh Roman to Bebeto Harvey may also have unsettled his chances. The evidence grows that beyond seven furlongs, Legacy Isle struggles to sustain his brilliance.
TENTH – OF A REVOLUTION
Never featured at any stage. His sprinting profile was again exposed, confirming he is best kept to shorter trips.
ELEVENTH – BLUE VINYL
The better of the two locally bred runners, but still well beaten. His placing reinforced the gulf between the current crop of locals and the imported talent dominating the scene.
TWELFTH – FUNCAANDUN
Once Horse of the Year and a Mouttet Mile winner, Funcaandun has not been performing to his former standards. This effort was another disappointment, far below his past exploits.
THIRTEENTH – NEO STAR
Expectations were minimal, and his run matched them. He trailed throughout, offering little to note.
