KINGSTON, Jamaica – Two of the recent batch of new trainers, who graduated on May 12, 2023, Peter John Parsard, and Oral Hayden have the distinction of being the first of their lot to saddle horses in a Classic race.
Parsard saddles Bootylicious, and Hayden - Essential Quality in the fillies only Jamaica 1000 Guineas, set to be contested at a mile on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Caymanas Park.
There was not much concern on the part of Parsard with Bootylicious, considered to be one of the principals in the 1000, despite drawing post-position number two.
“This race is over a mile, which gives enough time and distance for the jockey (Reyan Lewis) to get the filly into a good position to serious challenge where it matters most. I have every confidence that particular outcome will be achieved, with Bootylicious expected to give her best throughout.
“So, yes I would have preferred a draw more on the outside but the draw itself is not a major concern,” Parsard told Quickgallop.com immediately after the draw results were announced.
Commenting on Bootylicious’ preparation going into the 1000, Parsard said he is extremely pleased with how his charge has exercised and generally prepared.
“Bootylicious has prepared really well, she has been eager in the mornings during her various drills, doing so without any fuss. I am most pleased with her preparation,” Parsard said.
Bootylicious' ability to effectively get the one mile of the 1000 Guineas surfaced after what was considered a below-par effort in The Portmore (7 ½ furlongs). In The Portmore, Bootylicious finished fifth, approximately 11 lengths behind Thalita, while allowing the winner four kilogrammes. In the 1000 Guineas, all horses race with 57.0 kilogrammes.
“Bootylicious is bred (Key To Power out of Keep The Faith) to get two turns and remember she won The Thornbird Stakes (7 furlongs) going away from rivals. She will have no issues getting a mile,” the new trainer said.
At present, Parsard has eight horses under his care including Bootylicious. The rest is inclusive of Rojorn Di Pilot, back on the track after a long absence, The Citadel, and Jordon Reigns.
