CHOCOMO, a three-year-old American-bred bay colt, made a promising debut on local soil on Saturday, March 23, 2024.

Chocomo defeated rivals by 2¼ lengths in a maiden condition race for native-bred and imported three-year-olds and upward going six furlongs.

Although Chocomo’s time of 1:15.4 (23.1 x 47.1) was not impressive, the way he conducted himself indicates he is one to watch.

Chocomo’s owner, Milade Azan, feels he has discovered a champion runner.

“He [Chocomo] is a fantastic horse. I brought him down here; my trainer thinks well of him, and let’s see where we can go from here. I think we have a good horse in the making,” Azan told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.

“First run, first win, easy win, and so there’s nothing to complain about. He was easy but time will tell. He is young and so let’s see how he progresses,” he added.

With Robert Halledeen in the saddle Chocomo set off in the lead as soon as his starting barrier opened. That early burst by Chocomo was short-lived though, as he surrendered the lead to Cleopatra Queen (Oneil Mullings) going into the half-mile.

On approaching the distance, however, Chocomo regained his lead and held his gallop well to the wire, ahead of Cleopatra Queen and Riches to Rags (Tevin Foster).