KINGSTON, Jamaica – Over the last weekend, many prominent horses anticipated to race on Jamaica Day (Saturday, November 11, 2023) completed their final preparations.
Jamaica Day showcases three major races: the St Elizabeth Distaff (one mile), the Port Royal Sprint (six furlongs), and the Jamaica Cup (9 ½ furlongs).
Horse of the Year and defending Jamaica Cup champion Atomica, a filly trained by Gary Subratie, led the pack. She galloped six furlongs on Sunday, November 5, in a time of 1:15.1.
Mamma Mia, one of the top contenders in the three-year-old Classics, also had an intriguing gallop. This filly hasn't raced since her Jamaica Oaks victory in early August and is tentatively entered in both the St Elizabeth and Port Royal events.
Trainer Jason DaCosta oversaw Mamma Mia's Saturday, November 4, workout which spanned 5 ½ furlongs in a time of 1:07.0. However, Mamma Mia's participation in Jamaica Day remains undetermined.
Last weekend's attention also focused on imported racer Desert of Malibu's gallop. Conditioned by Gary Subratie, this horse has only competed thrice but boasts a flawless record with three wins. Now qualified for Overnight Allowance.
Desert of Malibu is slated to contest in the St Elizabeth Distaff. She completed six furlongs on Sunday, November 5, clocking in at 1:18.0.
Here is a list of additional gallops performed by potential Jamaica Day starters.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4. 2023
Essential Quality - Cantered/Galloped 6F 1:17.3
God of Love - Cantered/Galloped 3F 0:36.3
Luksol - Galloped Flat 6F 1:14.1
Lure of Lucy - Gate/ Galloped - Straight 5F 0:59.2
Mamma Mia - Cantered/Galloped 5.5F 1:07.0
Miniature Man - Gate/ Galloped - Straight 5F 1:00.4
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2023
Atomica - Cantered/Galloped 6F 1:15.1
D Head Cornerstone - Cantered/Galloped 4F 0:53.1
Desert of Malibu - Cantered/Galloped - Chute 6F 1:18.0
Freedom Street - Cantered/Galloped 3F 0:37.0
I've Got Magic - Cantered/Galloped 5.5F 1:07.3
King Arthur - Gate/ Galloped - Straight 5F 1:00.3
