Former two-time champion jockey Shane Ellis was at his best at Caymanas Park yesterday when capturing the two highest-rated races to highlight the trophy-less 10-race programme.

Ellis, popularly called the “Canterman”, used all his experience and skills to steer Money Magnet through rough traffic in deep stretch to win the top-rated Open Allowance event for three-year-olds and upward over six furlongs (1,200m).

Turning for home in fifth position, Ellis had to change course more than once on Money Magnet as they were blocked several times by Shining Light (Aaron Chatrie) in deep stretch. However, the Richard Azan-trained chestnut filly was able to get up in time to beat Shining Light by three parts of a length in a good time of 1:11.4 minutes. Simply The Best (Paul Francis) was third.

Ellis then returned in the in the ninth race, an Overnight Allowance event, and brought Uncle Taf from last at the quarter pole to nip Ras Emanuel (Robert Halledeen) by a neck on the line going five furlongs (1,000m) straight. Princess Emanuelle (Omar Walker) finished third.

“It is always a joy to win two races and I am happy for those wins today. The hard work and dedication towards the sport will still continue,” Ellis said.

With those wins, Ellis moved a clear second in the jockey’s championship race with 11 winners. Apprentice Anthony Thomas leads with 12 winners, while Dick Cardenas is third on nine wins.

— Ruddy Allen