WITH the native-bred three-year-old Classic series of races on the horizon, Sensational Move, a chestnut colt bred by Sensational Slam out of the Burning Marque mare Money Move, announced himself as a possible participant with an encouraging debut win on Saturday, April 15, 2023.

Trained by Gary Subratie and ridden by Dane Dawkins, Sensational Move was comfortable in winning a maiden special weight event for native-bred three-year-olds going 5½ furlongs (1,100m) by an impressive 11½ lengths on the bridle.

Finishing in a final time of 1:08.2, the manner in which Sensational Move handled himself on debut is a clear indication of a talented horse in the making.

Subratie was very impressed with the win by his charge, saying Sensational Move might race next in The Kingston, the final preparation race before the season’s first Classic event, the 2000 Guineas for three-year-old colts and geldings.

“I was very impressed with the win by Sensational Move. I mean, coming into the race he wasn’t really hard-driven in training, but he won well. He broke a little slow but he caught up with the field quickly and just went about his business.

“He has made a late start, and the options now are limited as we look at the upcoming Classic prep event and, of course, the Classic races. Having raced and won just three weeks before the 7½-furlong — The Kingston [May 7] — it would be foolhardy to run him again before that race.

“It is looking like Sensational Move’s next race will be The Kingston. I, however, stress that any forward movement will be dependent on how he came out of the Saturday [April 15] winning run. As usual, we will be observing his situation daily before a final decision is taken — and, of course, I will consult with the owner,” Subratie said.

At the off, Sensational Move shot to the front of the field ahead of Lion Charmer (Tevin Foster) and Roaring Thunder (Reyan Lewis). However, the far-striding colt allowed Bad Investment (Javaniel Patterson) to go ahead.

Turning for home, Sensational Move regained the lead, turned on the afterburners in deep stretch, and powered himself to victory. Roaring Thunder finished in second place, and Captain Phillip (Oshane Nugent) got up for the third spot.