I will cherish my first win — trainer Howard Bailey
Howard Bailey hopes that winning his first race as a conditioner with Boss Izzy on Sunday, May 5, 2024 will be the beginning of many more celebrations.
Boss Izzy, ridden by Omar Walker, came from behind runners to win a five-year-old and upward Claiming ($180,000-$150,000) event that also included native-bred six-year-olds and upward (non-winners of two) over 5 ½ furlongs.
The grey gelding, Boss Izzy, broke off in midpack at the start of the race but quickly surrounded rivals to go down in third place behind Silverstine (Matthew Bennett) and Faulyna Forever (Devon A Thomas).
Boss Izzy came up and challenged for the lead at the top straight before powering home to a three-quarters of the length win at the wire.
Silverstine was second and Nez Perce (Shane Richardson) third in a final time of 1:13.0 (24.1 x 49.1).
“I feel very good about this win. Winning my first race as a licensed trainer is wonderful feeling and one that I am going to cherish for the rest of my life,” Bailey told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.
“It was a good win by Boss Izzy and I am grateful. I have just started and so one can expect many more winners from me,” he added.