KINGSTON, Jamaica – The eighth race on Sunday, September 10, 2023, is named after the only individual inducted into the Hall of Fame as both a jockey and trainer, Kenneth Mattis. The Kenneth Mattis Memorial Trophy features eight starters at the Overnight Allowance level, covering a distance of nine furlongs and 25 yards. All eyes are on Blue Vinyl's participation.
Now racing as a four-year-old, Blue Vinyl is set to compete on Sunday under the care of trainer Alford Brown. Previously, Blue Vinyl raced under the guidance of Patrick Lynch. Despite this change, Blue Vinyl remains the overwhelming favourite for this trophy race.
The Quick Galloper analyses the eight starters in the Kenneth Mattis race in post-position order.
1 – INSPIRED MIRACLE enters from the claiming ranks, seemingly out of his class.
2 – BLUE VINYL stands out as the top contender by far. With appropriate distance and proven ability, Blue Vinyl is poised for success and likely to secure his third victory in his last four starts despite carrying extra weight compared to his rivals.
3 – SUNSET SILHOUETTE is gradually adjusting to this group but isn't ready for a win yet.
4 – POSITIVE ID may be considered for a place on the board despite his poor performance on August 12.
5 – STOMP THE RHYTHM has shown progress since winning a Restricted Overnight at seven furlongs is the logic contender for the exacta.
6 – RAINSVILLE makes its debut in Overnight and needs time to adjust to this level's pace.
7 – BABYLIKE also competes in Overnight for the first time and will likely gain experience from this race.
8 – GET A PEPSI performed well to finish third in his first attempt at Overnight behind Outbidder and Sunset Silhouette. A top-four finish seems plausible here.
