KINGSTON, Jamaica - Trainer Rowan Mathie and jockey Devon A Thomas combined to win their first race for the season with six-year-old chestnut gelding Dodge This Link, in a three-year-old and upwards Optional Claiming ($400,000-$300,000) spread that included native-bred six-year-olds and upwards (non-winners of four) and imported six-year-olds and upwards (non-winners of three) going 6 furlongs (1,200m).
Action Run (Samantha Fletcher) dashed to the front when the starter pressed the go button, holding the lead ahead of Queen Deftiny (Oshane Nugent), with Dodge This Link racing prominently behind in third place. Dodge This Link maintained his steady gallop, navigating the half-mile turn until turning for home when he made the bold move to challenge Action Run for the lead in deep stretch.
With three horses spread across the track, Dodge This Link emerged as the leader at the furlong pole ahead of Action Run and Vampire Rejection (Jordan Barrett), who were battling bravely behind. Dodge This Link went on for the win by half-length ahead of Action Run, with Vampire Rejection a length and a half behind in third place. The final time was 1:17.2.
