A ‘bird’ in the bush for Billy Williams
This year’s running of the Allan “Billy” Williams Memorial Trophy is the only trophy race on the 10-race midweek programme at Caymanas Park tomorrow.
The Overnight Allowance event for three-year-olds and upward will be run over 7 furlongs or 1,400m for a purse of $1 million, and has attracted 15 runners in what is sure to be a highly competitive race.
As usual, the Supreme Racing Guide takes a closer look at each runner and their chances of lifting the trophy, in the order they will start.
NIGHT LIGHT: (5-y-o dkb. g – Tracking – Orphan Song) —Has done nothing since coming to this level on November 24 of last year. Although he would prefer this extended trip of 7 furlongs, Night Light is going to find many in his way. His best hope is for a minor share.
HEY CHAMP: (6-y-o – ch. g – Seeking The Glory — Pretty Hilly) – Did extremely well to reach this level in October of last year, but his two runs in the group have been below par and that form should continue.
LICI’S PEPSI: (4-y-o – dkb. f – Blue Pepsi Lodge – First Choice) — Was an impressive 4 ¾-length winner of the New Year’s Day Trophy over 6 ½ furlongs (1,300m), in an eye-catching time of 1:19.2. This filly continues to improve and with the trip right up her street, Lici’s Pepsi is going to run well without actually winning.
DRONE STRIKE: (4-y-o b. g – Sorrentino – Santa Baby) — Last year’s Jamaica Derby winner who has been under several clouds since. Has no chance here.
MY SISTER: (4-y-o, rn. f – Taqarub – Lady MacBeth) — Won well over 6 ½ furlongs (1,300m) in a time of 1:19.4 on last. My Sister is fighting fit at this time, won’t have a problem at this distance, and will run well again. Has a live shot of repeating.
DRUMMER BOY: (4-y-o – b. c – Natural Selection – Preach Preacher) — Ran two very encouraging races earlier this year, finishing third going 9 plus (1,820) on January 1 and then second in a 6 ½-furlong race on January 5. With those runs under his girth, Drummer Boy should now be cherry-ripe to put these away. The one to beat.
BALAZO: (5-y-o – ch. g – Strikewhileitshot – Voodoo Chant) – Has no business here.
DUNROBIN: (6-y-o – b. g – Blue Pepsi Lodge – En Vogue) – Good sort, who had his fabulous winning streak halted on January 19. Although possessing some class, is still going to find it difficult against these. Needs more time at this level.
UNCLE VINNIE: (5-y-o – dkb. h – Bridled Quest – Kathytheraina) — Going to find the principals too hot to handle.
BIRDIE MY LOVE: (6-y-o – ch. m – Burning Marque – Bye Bye Birdie) — Awarded second place behind Bimini at this level on last but did run quite well in that particular race. With her well-being exposed and being in good form, Birdie My Love is a danger to all.
PHINEAS: (10-y-o – dk, b/br. g – Distorted – Winning Spirit) – Feeling the effects of age.
WARTIME: (6-y-o – ch. m – War Marshall – Time Crisis) – Now is a time of peace. Note, the figure 8 is on.
ARMAGEDDON: (5-y-o – dkb. h – Nuclear Wayne – Bonsai) — Came home well behind My Sister on last. Armageddon was seen making late headway in deep stretch, which showed that he will have no issues with 7 furlongs. Going to make a brave bid in this one.
SOY EL SENOR: (6-y-o gr. h – He’stherealthing – Jose Marsan)— Good sort, but is on the downward trend.
ZEPHYR: (6-y-o – ch. m – Nasheet – Rushing Force) – Has lost her form.