The seventh race on Saturday, April 18, honours one of Jamaica’s outstanding thoroughbreds and former Horse of the Year, St Cecelia.
This prestigious event, the St Cecelia Trophy, is open to three-year-olds and upward at the Open Allowance level, contested over 6 ½ furlongs.
Six horses are entered, and here is The Quick Galloper’s analysis of the likely outcome, presented in draw order:
1 – WALL STREET TRADER (USA)
A seasoned seven-year-old gelding who has shown consistent form in his last three outings. He captured victory over this exact trip in Overnight Allowance on February 18. Wall Street Trader is versatile, capable of leading or stalking before striking in the stretch. With a strong early pace expected, he may be forced to sit off the speed. Another solid performance is anticipated.
2 – SIR DON (USA)
This three-year-old foreigner is beginning to fulfill his juvenile promise. In his second Overnight Allowance start, Sir Don crushed rivals over 7 ½ furlongs by 5 ½ lengths, stopping the clock at a sharp 1:31.2. The cut back to 6 ½ furlongs looks ideal, and shedding six pounds from his last effort strengthens his chances. All signs point to another commanding run.
3 – GOODBYE FIREFLY (USA)
Comes into the St Cecelia Trophy off back-to-back wins, the latest on March 21 after a long layoff, sprinting five furlongs straight. Distance should not pose a problem, as he has previously succeeded at seven furlongs. However, this marks his first attempt at Open Allowance, making his prospects harder to gauge.
4 – MOJITO
Arguably the best locally bred horse in training. Mojito was well beaten in the December 6, 2025, Mouttet Mile, finishing a distant tenth, but his class was undeniable in last November’s Jamaica Cup, where he demolished rivals. Making his seasonal debut here, he signalled readiness with a sharp 1:26.3 gallop over seven furlongs on April 12. Expect a bold showing.
5 – ALLEGIANCE
Outclassed at this level. Serves as a filler in the field.
6 – ZULU WARRIOR
A consistent Open Allowance competitor, hitting the board in all four of his starts at this level. His breakthrough win in this grouping seems imminent, and he should once again be in the mix.
PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH
- Mojito
- The class horse of the field. His seasonal debut after a sharp workout suggests readiness, and his proven ability at this level makes him a strong contender.
- Sir Don (USA)
- The three-year-old looks primed for another big performance. The distance suits perfectly, and the weight relief is a major advantage.
- Wall Street Trader (USA)
- Reliable and experienced, he should be running on late if the pace collapses. His consistency makes him a solid choice for the minor placings.
- Zulu Warrior
- Always competitive in Open Allowance, but still searching for that breakthrough win. Likely to be in the mix but may find one or two too strong.
- Goodbye Firefly (USA)
- Stepping up in class for the first time. While talented, the jump to Open Allowance could prove challenging against seasoned rivals.
- Allegiance
- Outclassed in this company and unlikely to feature prominently.
