Trainer Jason DaCosta has reached the milestone of 300 wins at Caymanas Park in just over 3 ½ years. DaCosta, who also trains in the United States, has over 400 winners in that country.

DaCosta’s significant local achievement came courtesy of his talented three-year-old American-bred colt Funcaandun, who dominated the Distinctly Irish Trophy feature race, a Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward horses over nine furlongs and 25 yards (1,820m) on Saturday, August 24, 2024.

With Tevin Foster in the saddle, Funcaandun delivered a thrilling performance, crossing the finish line two-and-a-quarter lengths ahead of present Horse of the Year
Atomica and former Horse of the Year Further and Beyond in a time of 1:55.3 (25.2 x 49.1 x 1:13.4 x 1:40.1).

As he reflected on this achievement, DaCosta acknowledged the pivotal role his clients and owners have played in his success.

“I am feeling good. I am happy with the accomplishment as it took a lot of hard work and dedication and it paid off,” DaCosta told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.

“I have to give thanks to all the owners because I couldn’t have done it without them. I have gotten good support from my clients and so I give a shout out to them. It wouldn’t have been possible,” the two-time defending champion conditioner said.

DaCosta’s training philosophy is deeply rooted in the wisdom and expertise of his father, the legendary Wayne DaCosta. He has built upon the foundation laid by his father.

“Everybody trains differently. I have been doing what I have learned from my dad [Wayne DaCosta], who I think is the best,” he said.

“I have carried on from where he left off and so it is nothing really special as I just applied what I have learned. I have worked hard and I am dedicated to the sport.

“I dedicate everything to my father because without him nothing would have been possible. I had the best teacher in the world and I tried to learn as much as I could from him and that is what has been helping,” said DaCosta, who had saddled his first winner,
Elitist, on April 7, 2021.

Foster positioned Funcaandun in third place behind Mamma Mia (Shavon Townsend) and Atomica (Omar Walker) as they navigated the clubhouse turn and entered the main track. As they galloped down the backstretch, Further and Beyond drew alongside, but
Funcaandun maintained his rhythm, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

As they approached the half-mile turn, Foster urged Funcaandun forward, and the colt responded with a burst of speed, joining the leaders Atomica and Mamma Mia on the final turn.

With momentum now on his side, Funcaandun seized the lead at the furlong-and-a-half pole (300m), crossing the finish line with plenty to spare.