KINGSTON, Jamaica – A competitive field of nine horses is slated to embark on a 7 ½ furlong challenge in the eighth race on Saturday, April 20, 2024.
The race features three and four-year-old non-winners of four, along with three-year-old and upward non-winners of three for locally bred horses.
Racing analyst, The Quick Galloper, offers insights into the prospects of each contender, done in draw order.
1 - ROYAL ASH: Coming off a thrilling victory by a short head over seven furlongs on April 8, Royal Ash is poised for advancement. However, acclimatizing to a new competitive tier and an additional half-furlong may not play to her strengths.
2 - CHOCOLOMO (USA): This American newcomer impressed with a win on March 23 against a modest group. With great expectations from his stable, Chocomo requires a leap in form to face stiffer competition. The switch in jockey from Robert Halledeen to visitor Josue Osorio warrants attention, especially as Chocomo races wearing a tongue tie.
3 - GRECIAN LIGHT (USA): The consistent performance of this American-bred three-year-old filly in her five starts cannot be overlooked. She is predicted to relish the 7 ½ furlong distance, yet conquering these will be a substantial challenge.
4 - PRINCESS AMAHLE (USA): Having eagerly pursued Rejected Raja over 5 furlongs straight on April 6, Princess Amahle now tackles her longest distance yet at 7 ½ furlongs. Her progression is crucial to claim victory in this race.
5 - WALL STREET TRADER (USA): This gelding boasts a solid track record with two second-place finishes in Jamaica and three wins in international races. Jockey Robert Halledeen’s decision to ride Wall Street Trader over Chocomo is a strong indication of his winning potential and makes him the favoured choice among bettors.
6 - POWER FROM ABOVE: Proving her mettle with a decisive win on March 24, Power From Above faces a tougher challenge this Saturday. Nonetheless, her proven capability renders her a contender not to be underestimated.
7 - BOX BOX (USA): With a win on March 9 at seven furlongs, Box Box steps into the fray against non-four level adversaries, which may prove to be a formidable task.
8 - STRIKE SMART: Strike Smart, a seasoned warrior with three wins from 19 starts, demands consideration and could very well be the dark horse of the race.
9 - SMART ASSET: Despite boasting three wins from a mere five starts, Smart Asset fell significantly short against Wall Street Trader in their last encounter and would require a remarkable turnaround to change that result.
