Going for Triple Crown glory
All is set for a historic raceday tomorrow at Caymanas Park with the running of the 91st Jamaica St Leger, the fifth and final Classic race of the season.
Added significance is brought to bear on proceedings as the filly, She’s A Maneater, after winning the 1000 Guineas and the Boom Jamaica Derby now seeks the glory of being listed as a Triple Crwon winner.
Will another major piece of racing history be written? The Complete Racing Guide analyses the chances of all 12 runners in the St Leger in post position order.
THORNHILL MISS — The pride and joy of the Gresford Smith stables, Thornhill Miss was prominent throughout the Derby, just losing some of her momentum in the stretch drive. The mere fact that Thornhill Miss earned in the Blue Riband is credit to her.
SHE’S A MANEATER — On the cusp of Triple Crown glory, there is absolutely no doubt that She’s A Maneater is the class package of this three-year-old crop. Apply her talent and class with gutsy determination and a strong heart, and we have all the qualities of a talented horse and a true champion. She’s A Maneater’s win in the Derby was achieved in difficult circumstances as she had to pulled out of danger — losing a length to length and a half — in the process before regaining her composure and stride to win in the end. She has faced adversities before including a rugged passage in the Thornbird Stakes and injury after her win in the 1000 Guineas, yet She’s A Maneater has come up trumps. The Triple Crown awaits now and only time will tell.
SOTOMAYOR — Ran really well to finish second in the Boom Jamaica Derby (12-furlongs; 2,400m) when just failing with his usual late burst to overhaul She’s A Maneater after entering the straight too wide. Still without a win this year, this might be his best opportunity yet to do so. For Sotomayor, now reunited with his regular partner apprentice Linton Steadman, to win the St Leger Steadman has to get him closer to the leaders, especially after leaving the half-mile. The longer they go, the better it is for Sotomayor, but after going over the longest distance possible (12 furlongs) he has to be much closer now going over 10-furlongs in what a good chance of winning but will have to be ridden well.
PAPER CHASER — Has shown in the past that she prefers going long, but that in and of itself is not enough to cause any concerns to the principals.
SUBBIE — Difficult for Subbie to win.
GREAT FAITH — Was found wanting in the Derby and that trend will continue. Note the Figure 8 is on.
UNCLE VINNIE — Earned in the Boom Jamaica Derby and has a distinct likeness for the longer distances. Uncle Vinnie is a determined sort who is game and full of heart. He should again bring home a piece of the pie for his connections. Note the tongue tie is on.
SILENCE — Needs to increase his decibel levels to win here.
MARKET FORCE — Did well in the Lotto Classic, a race he eventually received in the stewards’ room. Although he was prominent in the Derby, he ended the race on sufferance as it was obvious that Market Force could not cope with the distance. With two furlongs less to run in the St Leger, Market Force is afforded a better chance of winning. For this to happen, every hoof print put down by Market Force must be correct. In with a valid chance but will have to appreciably step up his game.
RISING BOP — Will enjoy himself.
FEARLESS SAMURAI — After winning the 2000 Guineas and then going on to register the first win from his crop at Open Allowance level, Fearless Samurai was a complete no-show in the Derby. His stamina limitations were then exposed, but it was the way he ran which was most noticed. Fearless Samurai is known to be a front-runner and in the Derby he spent most of his time in mid-pack, way behind the leaders. For Fearless Samurai to have a smidgen of a chance in the St Leger, he has to lead or be very close to the pace, but even if he does, he might well be scuppered by his inability to truly get a distance of ground.
PROUD OF NUCLEAR– There will be no explosions.