AMERICAN-BRED runners Runaway Algo and I’ve Got Magic renew rivalry in what is expected to be another exciting battle for top honours in the $1.5-million Eros Trophy feature going seven furlongs (1,400m) at Caymanas Park today.

The two met for the first time on May 22 in the Seeking My Dream Trophy over seven and a half furlongs (1,500m), with I’ve Got Magic defeating Runaway Algo by a head. That was Runaway Algo’s first run at the Open Allowance level while I’ve Got Magic was more seasoned, having had two runs prior.

Now going a half-furlong (100m) shorter, Runaway Algo can turn the tables on I’ve Got Magic and beat the rest of the field as well. The distance of seven furlongs is perfect for this foreigner.

I’ve Got Magic, on the other hand, has raced two times since his Seeking My Dream victory, both times finishing off the board. However, if he can reproduce his run in the Seeking My Dream then I’ve Got Magic can surely win the Eros Trophy.

The race is not limited to these two runners as King Arthur, Eroy and Calculus are all capable runners who can land the win.

The Eros Trophy — run in honour of the great horse regarded in local racing as one of the best to ever grace the track — is positioned as the ninth event on the 10-race card with a post time of 4:50 pm. First race is at noon.

Trained by Dale Murphy, Runaway Algo, who has a racing career record of four win from six starts, has worked brilliantly coming into the Eroy contest.

The three-year-old chestnut colt galloped five furlongs (1,000m) on the round course in 1:00.1 on July 9. A week later, on July 16, Runaway Algo galloped seven furlongs in a smooth 1:28.0, and then on July 23 he galloped five furlongs out of the straight in 59.3. All three workouts were the fastest time done over the distances on the day.

Based on those spins, Runaway Algo has been given the edge here as Panamanian Dick Cardenas replaces Chris Mamdeen in the saddle.

I’ve Got Magic has also looked good in his work coming into this race. The Philip Feanny trainee clocked 1:06.3 for five and a half furlongs (1,100m), with the last five furlongs done in 1:00.3 to also signal his readiness for the clash. Apprentice Jordon Barrett will ride.

King Arthur, trained by Jason DaCosta, seems to have lost his rhythm in recent times after winning at six furlongs on May 14. The former Jamaica Derby winner, based on current form, cannot get any votes here where winning is concerned but he can spring a surprise when ready — and today might be that day.

Eroy found himself back in this grade after a commanding 12¼-length win in the recent Hubert Bartley Memorial Trophy over 7½ furlongs in Overnight Allowance company. Then Eroy made one move to win in a time of 1:31.0, which speaks volumes of his ability. The Richard Azan bay horse may need to find more to win here but should run well, nonetheless. He is not unfamiliar with this grouping.

Calculus, winner of last year’s Jamaica St Leger and Derby, finished second behind the top-rated Mahogany in the inaugural Clovis Metcalfe Cup over seven and a half furlongs 28 days ago. Calculus should not find this trip too sharp and thus another good showing is expected from him, even while allowing weight to all rivals. Note, the Gary Subratie trainee races with the visor on.

Last year’s Jamaica 1000 Guineas and Jamaica Oaks heroine She’s A Wonder returns for her second run this season in the $1.1-million Overnight Allowance event for three-year-olds and upwards over seven and a half furlongs.

Trained by Ian Parsard, She’s A Wonder made her seasonal debut on June 18 and could only manage fifth place as the favourite behind stablemate Jordon Reign’s and Lure of Lucy going six and a half furlongs (1,300m). Then, She’s A Wonder was coming off a six-month break and may have needed that run. She is well-trained for this, having galloped six furlongs in 1:12.3 on July 24. She’s a Wonder should be a lonely winner here.

The Good Witch, trained by Adin Williams, seems the likely choice from the rest of eight runners that could deny She’s A Wonder her win here. The American-bred runner has raced four times on local soil, with her last two runs being encouraging ones.

After her third-place finish behind Lure of Lucy and Rojorn Di Pilot over six furlongs on July 2, The Good Witch returned and finished second by seven and a half lengths behind She’s My Destiny at five and a half furlongs. Based on those runs, The Good Witch is primed for success here.

El Profesor, Awesome Treasure and T Brady could find a way into the mix.

Ones to watch

Race 1) Papa Albert/Kunama/Party Princess

Race 2) Awesome Aviator/Ridewiththemob/Mamasharondarling

Race 3) Baltusrol/Killer Bee/Kholbear

Race 4) Rubyistheone/Posing Already/Dujour

Race 5) Sherwsbury Norm/Market Place/Fearless Fire

Race 6) Chennai Express/Lord of Ajahlon/Ajita

Race 7) Jahsendblessings/Charmin Beauty/Johncrowjeff

Race 8) She’s A Wonder/The Good Witch/Awesome Treasure

Race 9) Runaway Algo/I’ve Got Magic/Calculus

Race 10) Super Duper/Taurus Boy/True Al Sky