Tevin Foster, in a skilful handling in the saddle, expertly guided the Ability to a thrilling victory by a narrow margin in the I’msatisfied Trophy feature on Saturday’s nine-race programme at Caymanas Park.

Last year’s Jamaica Derby winner Ability edged out American-bred
I Am Fred by a head in an exhilarating finish, showcasing Foster’s exceptional riding skills and strategic handling of the horse.

Ability, who was previously trained by Patrick Lynch and now taking orders from Fitzgerald Richards, completed the Open Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward over six furlongs (1,200m) in a smooth time of 1:12.1 (22.2 x 46.0).

Ability broke off well behind the field at the start of the race and had to watch
Bootylicious (Paul Francis) lead runners down the backstretch ahead of
I Am Fred (Shamaree Muir), Yellowstone (Oshane Nugent), and Wall Street Trader (Robert Halledeen).

Bootylicious accelerated going into the half-mile (800m) turn, opening up on opponents and looking to grab a march. However, as the distance approached,
I Am Fred, Wall Street Trader, and Ability found their groove and made a run at Bootylicious, coming off the turn for home bend.

With Wall Street Trader retreating entering the drive, I Am Fred attacked
Bootylicious from the outside, while Ability hugged the inside rails, resulting in a battle for supremacy among the three in deep stretch. In the last phases of the race, I Am Fred and Ability battled to the finish line, with Ability ultimately crossing the finish line first.

Wall Street Trader was promoted to third place following the disqualification of Bootylicous, who initially finished in the race in third place.

It was the third winner on the day for Foster as he had earlier booted home
Absolute Blue in the first race for trainer Ryan Darby, and Who Doneit for trainer Arnold Rambally Jr. in the fifth race.

Foster expressed his gratitude and elation after his three-timer.

“Thanks to the connections, the owners, the trainers, the grooms, and everyone involved in my successes today,” he told the Jamaica Observer. “Also thank the horses for their exceptional performance as well as fans, supporters, family, and friends for their encouragement and backing.”

Racing continues next weekend with races on Saturday and Sunday.