AFTER his unplaced effort in the Jamaica Derby on August 6, 2022, the Spencer Chung-conditioned Sonny T and Chippy returned from a two-month break as a winner at the three-year-old non-winners of two level over nine furlongs and 25 yards (1,820m) on Saturday, October 22, 2022.

Ridden by Dick Cardenas, Sonny T and Chippy (Savoy Stomp – Trinket Box) picked up the lead from five furlongs (1,000m) out, turned on the pressure in deep stretch, and ran out an easy winner by 2¾ lengths in a time of 1:59.3.

Cardenas was in no rush at the start of the race as the Panamanian held Sonny T and Chippy in third place going around the clubhouse turn and onto the main track. Sonny T and Chippy then improved one spot to second place down the backstretch behind leader Secret Emperor (Anthony Allen).

Leaving the five-furlong marker, Sonny T and Chippy surged to the front and never looked back coming home ahead of Lion of Ekati (Robert Halledeen) and Fly Messenger (Javaniel Patterson).

“Well, he is coming off a layoff after the Jamaica Derby run. He wasn’t too ready for the Derby so the jockey took his time with him. Nothing was really wrong; he just wasn’t ready for the race so we gave him time off just to recoup and get back to himself.

“This race came up and it was a little long, but he is a type of horse where he is all stamina and so it was pretty easy to get him here. He does everything you ask him to do. He is good. He is always a good stayer as he showed a lot of stamina in the mornings,” Chung said.

Part-owner Dr Frederick Foote was pleased with the outcome.

“This horse (Sonny T And Chippy) has had his issues, it was therefore comforting to see him do so well.

“Hopefully, he will now go on to win his conditions,” Dr Foote said.