MOJITO returns from a disappointing Classic campaign to take on competitors in the eighth running of the $1.25-million Errol “Big Sub” Subratie Memorial Trophy feature race at Caymanas Park today.

Mojito, the champion two-year-old from last year, entered the Classic series of races as the favourite, having won four straight victories including the Jamaica Two-Year-old Stakes last December, The Prince Consort Stakes on April 9, and The Kingston on May 7.

Mojito was well poised as a prospective Triple Crown victor after winning the 2000 Guineas over one mile on June 4. The Savoy Stomp – Fiftyshadesofgray offspring won by a city block in a time of 1:37.2 over one mile (1,600m). The Richard Azan trainee then failed to deliver in the next two events in the series. On July 1 Mojito finished eighth in the Jamaica St Leger over 10 furlongs (2,000m), and fourth in the Jamaica Derby over 12 furlongs (2,400m) on August 7.

Mojito has been properly prepared for this prize race and, given his class, he should win. On Friday, October 6, breaking out of the starting gates out of the chute, Mojito galloped eight furlongs in 1:43.0 with the first seven furlongs done in 1:28.2. Jockey Tevin Foster replaces champion Dane Dawkins in the saddle aboard Mojito.

The Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward going one mile (1,600m) is positioned as the ninth and final event on the card, with a post time of 5:10 pm. First race is at 12:15 pm.

Mojito will not have his way here as seasoned racers such as Sunset Silhoutte, Sistren Treasure, Excessive Force, and Big Jule are more than capable of winning this trophy race.

Sunset Silhoutte has yet to win at this level from five outings, however Sunset Silhoutte has been competitive after finishing second three times in close finishes. Sunset Silhoutte is expected to run well once again.

Sistren Treasure has been running fairly well in her recent races, winning two times from nine starts. Sistren Treasure should be competitive here.

Last year’s Mouttet Mile winner Excessive Force has had two runs this season with no results. The American-bred horse running at this level is always going to be a strong competitor, even if he isn’t in the finest of form. Excessive Force is now taking orders from trainer Anthony Subratie, and as such a big run is expected from him.

Big Jule returns to competitive racing following a 372-day hiatus. Big Jule last ran on October 8, 2022 in the Mark My Word Trophy over nine furlongs and 25 yards (1,820m), finishing sixth by more than 53 lengths. Big Jule has trained well for this race and as such, he should run well.