KINGSTON, Jamaica – It was a race day for the form players with the longest odds winner Sunshine Cat (9-1) coming in the penultimate race (eighth). Otherwise, most of the major bets were easily won by wagering punters.
On the day, highlights include the performance of the talented Mahogany, the winner of the Kilowatt Trophy, and the skilfulness of Anthony Thomas in the saddle. Then there is the rejuvenation of jockey Linton Steadman.
MAHOGANY
Now it’s three wins from three starts for this four-year-old in 2021 after victory was achieved in the 7-furlong Kilowatt Trophy.
Mahogany trained by Ian Parsard and ridden by Dane Dawkins proved his versatility by coming from way off the pace to win convincingly.
In the Kilowatt, Mahogany was favourably handicapped plus it was not the fiercest assembled field of rivals. Notwithstanding, the race must be run and Mahogany came through with flying colours.
Now it's back to the top grade and Mahogany has no fears as depending on distance, he can hold his own with aplomb in the sprints and the middle distances. In addition, many of his more erstwhile rivals are in the process of coming back from various issues.
Mahogany is a special specimen of a racing thoroughbred, who we are all eager to see perform at his optimum.
ANTHONY THOMAS
He is the co-champion and the current champion and everyone recognises that Anthony Thomas is the best of the lot to emerge from the jockeys’ school in the last 15 years.
His performance in the saddle on Sunshine Cat, followed half-an-hour later, on Ianzha Links were superb.
On Sunshine Cat, after being passed by Mirabilis with Dick Cardenas in the saddle, Thomas somehow got his mount to rally on the inside rails to get up and nab Mirabilis.
Determination, the ability to judge the situation, plus good timing were the determining factors in Thomas getting home.
Then just after his fine display on Sunshine Cat, Thomas was at it again on Ianzha Links.
Tracking Vanessa (Linton Steadman) in the straight, Thomas after attacking on the outside with Ianzha Links took the crucial decision of changing course – quickly moving to the inside. That decision brought new life into the hoofs of his mount, who responded by intensifying her gallop to catch and beat Vanessa.
Thomas is special in the saddle and the hope is for him to keep up his excellent work ethic, and for sure, the winners will come.
LINTON STEADMAN
The departure of Dane Nelson has seemingly opened the gates for jockey Linton Steadman. After a long period of drought, Steadman has exploded, showcasing his talent with a particular preference for races going two turns.
Steadman is one of the few, who have emerged from the jockeys’ school in recent times to win Classic races – Bigdaddykool and Nipster. He gave a display worthy of the highest commendation aboard Santorini in the 9 ½ furlongs (two turns) Winston Griffiths Classic.
Slowly, Steadman is becoming the jockey of choice at the stables of champion trainer Anthony Nunes.
Steadman has had his difficulties with weight before but now he is riding at 52.0 – 53-0 kgs, which if he can hold, he will prove an even greater asset to the riding colony.
