The eighth of nine races on the Saturday programme is the Monday Morning Trophy, a pivotal contest staged over seven furlongs.
This race serves as the final major stepping stone before the season’s first Classic races for three-year-olds in early June. It honours Monday Morning, a distinguished former Triple Crown winner.
Eight horses at the non-winners of two level have been declared, each seeking to establish their credentials ahead of the Classics. With a blend of lightly raced prospects, returning contenders, and seasoned campaigners, the outcome promises intrigue.
The Quick Galloper presents the analysis in draw order.
1 – Minniehaha
Bay filly (February 23) by Savoy Stomp out of Red Gold
Trainer – Robert Pearson
Jockey – Tyrese Anderson
Minniehaha announced herself with victory at the second attempt, scoring over five furlongs round on February 18. Since then, however, her two subsequent runs have failed to show the progression expected of a filly aiming to climb the ranks. She has not demonstrated the tactical improvement or finishing strength required to suggest she can trouble the principals here. Unless she finds sudden improvement, Minniehaha looks set for a supporting role.
2 – Charming Chaterbox
Bay filly (February 4) by Successful Native out of Morning Glory
Trainer – Robert Pearson
Jockey – Tevin Foster
Equipment – Figure eight on
Charming Chaterbox burst onto the scene with a decisive debut win on February 21, displaying raw talent and authority. Yet her absence of 91 days since that victory raises questions. Missing all the Classic prep races suggests she may have been recovering from setbacks. Morning gallops alongside stablemate Honour Prince have been encouraging.
Still, race fitness may be lacking, and she could need this run to sharpen her edge. Despite that, her natural ability makes her a key player, and she could influence the complexion of the race even if not fully wound up.
3 – Darwin
Bay colt (February 27) by Casual Trick out of Cape
Trainer – Richard Azan
Jockey – Demar Williams
Darwin shed his maiden tag back on November 19, 2025, but has since struggled to make an impression in four subsequent outings. His performances have been flat, with little to suggest a breakthrough is imminent. Without signs of improvement in training or equipment, Darwin appears unlikely to alter his trajectory here.
4 – Super David
Bay gelding (April 6) by Patton Proud out of Storm Girl
Trainer – David Powell
Jockey – Phillip Parchment
Super David has quickly built a reputation as one to watch. After finishing third on debut over four furlongs, he returned just six days later to deliver a commanding victory at 6 ½ furlongs. Since then, his morning exercise has caught the eye of observers, showing strength and determination. This race represents a defining moment for the gelding, as he steps into deeper waters. With his preparation complete and confidence high, Super David is primed to make a bold statement.
5 – London Spirit
Bay colt (February 6) by Bern Identity out of Blufield
Trainer – Jason DaCosta
Jockey – Shaheem Gordon
London Spirit has been a source of frustration, failing to live up to expectations across ten starts. His form has been inconsistent, and despite flashes of ability, he has not delivered the kind of performance that would mark him as a serious contender. At best, he may sneak into the minor placings, but victory looks a stretch.
6 – Tia Maria
Chestnut filly (February 2) by Bold Conquest out of Zacapa
Trainer – Anthony Nunes
Jockey – Raddesh Roman
Equipment – Figure eight on
Tia Maria returns after a lengthy 148-day break, last seen finishing seventh in the Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes on Boxing Day, 13 lengths behind We Jammin. Prior to that, she had shown consistency, placing third twice and fourth once. Her preparation for this comeback has been solid, with encouraging morning workouts. The figure eight is now on to aid her focus, and she enters the Monday Morning Trophy with a genuine chance of shaping the outcome. If she reproduces her earlier consistency, she could be a factor in the finish.
7 – Strong Aveenu
Bay colt (March 19) by Aveenu Malcainu out of Ruby Rose
Trainer – Patrick Lynch
Jockey – Dane Dawkins
Strong Aveenu arrives off a recent win 35 days ago, stepping up in grade for this assignment. While his victory was commendable, this field presents sterner opposition. He may require this run to acclimatise to the higher level before mounting a serious challenge. Nonetheless, his progress is worth monitoring, and he could surprise if he adapts quickly.
8 – Fidelity
Bay gelding (March 28) by Bern Identity out of Hush My Darling
Trainer – Jason DaCosta
Jockey – Aaron Chatrie
Fidelity is a puzzle for analysts. He won at his second start on October 25, 2025, but has since struggled to keep pace with his peers. Yet his last two runs have hinted at improvement, finishing third behind Honour Prince and fourth behind Mohanlal just ten days ago. These performances suggest he may finally be settling into his stride. If that upward trend continues, Fidelity has as good a chance as any in this competitive field. His resilience and recent form make him a dark horse capable of upsetting expectations.
