KINGSTON, Jamaica—The highly anticipated nightcap, taking place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, will spotlight the legendary Trevor ‘Slicer’ Simpson, a multi-time champion jockey.
This sprint event, set at five furlongs round for Overnight allowance-based horses, has seen the withdrawal of number eight, Mudshaft, who was declared a late non-starter from the original thirteen entrants.
Here's a look at the fierce competition expected in the Trevor Simpson Trophy done by The Quick Galloper.
1 - MADELYN'S SUNSHINE – Recent outings have been disheartening, as Madelyn's Sunshine has failed to claim victory in her two starts this season. Don't count on a turnaround here; she’s struggling to find form.
2 - FREEDOM STREET – A gamble, this horse can be too unpredictable. Despite some inconsistent runs, he’s still a contender for a minor placing if he finds his stride on Saturday.
3 - KEM – Rising to this level has been a remarkable journey, but the challenge is now overwhelming. Kem is expected to get left behind against these stronger rivals.
4 - BURLAP – Having put in a brave performance last time out, finishing third by 5 ¼ lengths on December 15, Burlap should run well once more. However, he needs a flawless race to make an impact.
5 - MRS LYNDHURST – This mare excels on straight courses, and tackling the bends around this track could spell trouble for her chances today.
6 - CALIFORNIA CROWN – Following a stellar debut this season, winning the St Catherine Cup by an impressive 7 ½ lengths, California Crown is primed and ready to dominate again. Expect nothing less than a fierce performance from him.
7 - A GIFT FROM BEN – Fresh off a 104-day layoff, he’s up against it. This race may serve as a stepping stone for him to find his form again.
8 - MUDSHAFT – Currently a late non-starter.
9 - COMMANDER Z – With a disappointing debut in Overnight Allowance where he finished fifth, 11 lengths behind, this foreigner faces another tough challenge. He might be good in the exotics, though.
10 - LADY ABHIMALA – Her recent win raises expectations, but stepping up to this competitive level is no small feat. She will have to rise to the occasion.
11 - JOY IS GOLDEN – After a fighting second place in her previous Overnight attempt, she’s proven she can compete at this level. With her speed, she could be a game-changer in this sprint.
12 - SENSATIONAL MOVE – Coming off a 5 ¼-length victory against high claimers, this horse needs to elevate his game to tackle tougher opponents today.
13 - TALONA – Unfortunately, Talona's chances of success here are non-existent.