JOCKEY Shane Ellis put Typewriter in the lead with 1,600 metres remaining and held the advantage to the line to win the 92nd running of the $9 million Jamaica Derby on a common canter by 6 1/2 lengths at Caymanas Park yesterday.

But it was no smooth sailing to the winner’s enclosure as one week before the event, he picked up an injury which prevented him from exercising on the track and had to do his final preparation at sea, according to trainer Spencer Chung. Chung told reporters that Typewriter looks all right for now coming out of the race, but he will have to wait and see how it turns.

“The victory was special,” Chung admitted. “In more ways than one” he continued, “I lost my father last year, who is the owner of this horse, and I’m sure he will be very proud of me for the achievement.”

A 7-2 betting option, the bay gelded son of Western Classic, however, ran 2,400 metres in 2:38.4 to keep his unbeaten record intact after four starts. The victory also provide trainer Chung with his first Derby win and jockey Ellis with his second.

All Correct, a 4-1 chance ridden by Omar Walker, outlasted Uncle Donny, the 2-1 favourite partnered by Dick Cardenas, for second, with Aventura, ridden by Winston Griffiths, completing the frame in the field of 16 at odds of 5-1.