The Distinctly Irish Trophy, a Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward over the two turns of 9 furlongs and 25 yards, is the feature race on Saturday’s 10-race card at Caymanas Park.
The Quick Galloper takes a look at the six runners and their chances of winning.
1 – BARNABY (USA)
Barnaby brings the strongest credentials into the race. He finished third behind Phenomenal Power and Girvano in the Diamond Mile on July 25, covering a mile in a fast 1:36.3. He has also won over this distance, clocking 1:54.2 on April 26. It is not often than Barnaby gets the opportunity of racing over his preferred longer distances. After 62 days away from racing, Barnaby returns fresh and has reportedly been training well. The pace should suit him, particularly with stablemates Neo Star and Miss Grove in the field. If they ensure an honest tempo, Barnaby can use his finishing speed to take control.
2 – KING PIYE
King Piye appears to have the toughest task in the field. On the form available, he looks unlikely to challenge the leading contenders or influence the result.
3 – RUN JULIE RUN
Run Julie Run is a consistent performer with a strong claim for a placing. She finished third behind Don Kwesi and Sensational Soul over 7½ furlongs on August 22. Before that, she won the Mark My Word Trophy over this distance on July 16 in 1:52.2. That previous win shows she can handle the trip. Expect her to make a late run and contend for second or third.
4 – DON KWESI
Don Kwesi crossed the line first ahead of Sensational Soul and Run Julie Run on August 22, but was later disqualified. He has reportedly been training well, with the longer distance should not pose a problem.
He looks the main danger to Barnaby and could make the favourite work hard for the win.
5 – MISS GROVE (CAN)
Miss Grove faces a difficult assignment against this field. She will need to produce more than expected to get involved in the final outcome.
6 – NEO STAR
Neo Star is another runner with a challenging task. His presence could help set the pace, but he will need to improve considerably to threaten Barnaby and Don Kwesi.
The Quick Galloper’s selections: Barnaby to win, Don Kwesi to challenge, and Run Julie Run for a placing.
