Former champion jockey Christopher Mamdeen was all smiles in the winners’ enclosure following an exhilarating ride on Unspun, a two-year-old American-bred dark bay/brown colt, who clinched a neck victory in the $2 million Dye Job Sprint on Saturday, December 28, 2024.
Unspun (Spun to Run – U Needa Ride) made a comeback from behind to edge out the favorite, Rideallday (Raddesh Roman), just at the finish line in this event for native-bred and imported two-year-olds, contested over 6 furlongs (1,200m) in a time of 1:13.0. Unruly Mo (Robert Halledeen) settled for third place.
This victory marked Unspun's third straight win, and Mamdeen was quick to attribute the horse's outstanding performance to his deep understanding of the colt and the masterful training of Donovan Hutchinson.
"I believe that my collaboration with trainer [Donovan] Hutchinson has greatly influenced my recent achievements," Mamdeen commented.
He added, "The trainer wished me luck and encouraged me to enjoy my ride with him.”
Mamdeen's confidence in Unspun became clear at the five-furlong mark as he noticed Unruly Mo applying pressure on Runallday for the lead.
Identifying an opening, Mamdeen plotted his race strategy.
“I felt optimistic about Unspun's chances when I saw Unruly Mo challenging Rideallday. Had Rideallday led without contest, it would have been tough for me to catch up, but the added pressure worked in my favor.”
“At the three-furlong marker, I decided to test Runallday to gauge his strength. The more I urged my horse, the better he responded, so I knew we could win,” Mamdeen elaborated.
Mamdeen's strategic choice proved fruitful as Unspun powered ahead to secure victory by a short head. His unwavering belief in his mount's capabilities was clear throughout the race, and he concluded, "I maintained confidence from start to finish."
One Response
this finish is a classis, mamdeen at his utmost best,no points lost by raddish roman