Leading Alex’s Import Gold Cup horses complete preps
The preparations by the top contenders in this year’s Alex’s Import Limited Gold Cup set for Heroes’ Day on Monday next are all but complete.
Most of the leading lights galloped on Sunday last through to Wednesday as trainers fine-tuned arrangements for their charges’ participation in the event described as the top handicap race in the land.
Horse of the Year
Seeking My Dream, considered by most pundits as the top thoroughbred in Jamaica, cantered eight furlongs on Sunday morning – galloping the last seven in 1:26.3. After the workout, trainer Wayne DaCosta said he was pleased with the gallop and was looking forward to another great run from his four-year-old chestnut colt. DaCosta will also startHovercraft in the race.
Trainer Gary Subratie holds a strong hand in the Gold Cup, with the vastly improved
Brawn andBlue Dixie both entered.Brawn on Sunday morning cantered nine furlongs – galloping the last three in 35.2 seconds, whileBlue Dixie cantered nine furlongs, striding the last three in 40.1 seconds. Subratie then said both of his horses are in good nick and he is waiting anxiously to see how they will perform in the Gold Cup.
Trainer Andrew McDonald waited until last Wednesday to gallop
Phineas, last year’s winner of the Invitational Mile on Burger King’s Super Day. Despite coming on in years,Phineas cantered nine furlongs, completing the last six in 1:23.0.
The real intrigue of this year’s Alex’s Import Gold Cup is generated by the presence of
Buzz Nightmare, who has overcome health issues to be right on top of his game.Buzz Nightmare galloped on Sunday morning over six furlongs, defeating stablemateCampesino in a clocking of 1:12.1.
The imported filly
Long Running Train now stands as one of the best horses in the country, and this Gold Cup may well cap her emergence as a special contender. She cantered eight furlongs – galloping the last six in 1:13.3.
An entry of special significance is
Typewriter, who made his return to racing just two weeks ago. Despite his long absence, Typewriter performed well when finishing second, but he needs to win here to have a chance of qualifying for the Diamond Mile.Typewriter cantered nine furlongs on Wednesday, galloping the last four in an easy 51.2 seconds.
