Trainer Donovan Hutchinson is beaming with pride after Unspun's maiden victory in the $2-million Hover Craft Trophy on Saturday, November 2, 2024. The two-year-old American-bred colt, ridden by Christopher Mamdeen, left the competition in the dust in the Restricted Allowance I contest for native-bred and imported two-year-olds.
Unspun broke sharply from the gate, settling comfortably in second behind the speedy Miss MoneyPenny. As the field approached the half-mile turn, Unspun made his move, drawing alongside Miss MoneyPenny before taking command at the top of the stretch. From there, it was a one-horse race, with Unspun effortlessly crossing the finish line 10 ¼ lengths ahead of Burning Edge, and Miss MoneyPenny fading to third.
"He's a very nice horse, still green but definitely a good horse in the making," Hutchinson said. . The trainer praised owner Collin Elcook, who brought his horses to Jamaica to compete, saying "This is a nice win for him."
Unspun's victory was especially sweet given his progression from his first two starts, where he finished second under Guyanese rider Michael Semple. The jockey's change to Mamdeen proved pivotal, with Hutchinson noting, "We said let's give him a try, and it all worked out in the end."
Mamdeen, who has been riding in Canada, brought his international expertise to the table, expertly guiding Unspun to the win. "I feel very good to get the job done as always," Mamdeen said, grinning from ear to ear. "It's a very good experience, and I'm grateful."
"The experience over there was very good, and it feels good to come back here and win races. The performance from Unspun was very good. He's young and with more room for improvement, I think he will develop into a nice runner," Mamdeen said.
The Hover Craft Trophy was the Betting, Gaming, and Lotteries Commission (BGCL)/Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) Millionaire Series Race #2. Unspun's winning time over six furlongs (1,200m) was an impressive 1:13.4.
