KINGSTON, Jamaica - The three-year-old chestnut colt, Phenomenal One, who had been struggling at the non-winners of two levels, took advantage of the drop in class to the claiming ranks and secured his second win in 15 starts.
This victory was achieved in an Optional Claiming ($550,000-$450,000) event featuring five-year-olds and upwards (non-winners of four) as well as imported five-year-olds and upwards (non-winners of three), all traveling 6 furlongs.
Ridden by Reyan Lewis for champion trainer Jason DaCosta, Phenomenal One raced in third place behind A Seh Soup (Roger Hewitt) and Bridal Blush (Bebeto Harvey).
Approaching the half-mile (800m) turn, Phenomenal One navigated between horses to seize the lead ahead of Bridal Blush and A Seh Soup.
Turning for home with a commanding lead, Phenomenal One effortlessly scored a 3-length win in a time of 1:15.4 (23.1 x 47.1). AKA Storm (Dane Dawkins) ran on to secure second place, followed by Bridal Blush in third position.
