If there were doubts they have been quelled – Commanding Chief is special and is the best horse in training.

Commanding Chief (War Marshall – She Knows Beau) in a performance pundits are describing as one for the ages, the six-year-old showed grit, determination and class to rally in deep straight under the bustling guidance of Dane Nelson to score a narrow short head victory over a younger rival receiving weight, Perfect Neighbour to win the 10-furlong Prime Minister’s Stakes for owners Doks Stable and trainer Everal Francis on Independence Day at Caymanas Park.

The win by Commanding Chief was his third for the season, thereby keeping his unbeaten tag after three races. He has won going distances of seven, nine and now 10 furlongs, proving his versatility and ability to adjust when required. Commanding Chief wins from in front, can stay off the pace and his never say die attitude with whoever is riding him makes for a horse truly to be valued and cared for.

Perfect Neighbour with apprentice Shamaree Muir in the saddle for the first time did nothing wrong. He stuck with the pace set by Commanding Chief, made his move at the right time, went in front in the straight but was defeated in the end by a better horse on the day. Perfect Neighbour lost nothing in defeat and has proven that his early season successes were significant and true. He has done well.

Typewriter was seemingly out of sorts on Independence Day. He ran no race at all while the others Uppa Tune, Miracle Star and Exotic Gold simply enjoyed the proceedings from far behind.

As a result of his three wins, Commanding Chief now finds himself in the cat bird seat for Horse of the Year honours.

The Complete Racing Guide celebrates the independence and class of Commanding Chief in photos taken by photographer Bryan Cummings.