The Winston “Fanna” Griffiths OD Classic race, scheduled to take place at Caymanas Park on Sunday, September 8, 2024, will once again pay tribute to the renowned jockey who has achieved unparalleled success with 1,663 wins, including the most Classic winners at the prestigious track.

This coveted race, designed for native-bred three-year-olds non-winners of a Grade One race, will feature a competitive field of eight runners vying for a share of the $3.75 million purse over a distance of 9 ½ furlongs (1,900m).

The Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide, a trusted source for expert analysis, will provide an in-depth examination of each contender’s prospects, offering valuable insights to help racing enthusiasts make informed predictions about the outcome of this highly anticipated event.

1. COMEHOMETOME: (3 b f by Northern Giant – Heart of Gold) – was expected to dominate the Jamaica Oaks after her impressive second-place finish in the 1000 Guineas. However, she failed to deliver, finishing fourth behind stablemate
Banadura. Despite showing promise in training, she may struggle to redeem herself in this race.

2. KING PIYE: (3 ch c by Admiral Alex – Jamaican Pharoah) – Faces an uphill battle after finishing sixth in the Jamaica Derby. With Captain Sparrow, who finished third in the derby, in the line-up, King Piye’s chances of winning appear slim.

3.  ALLEGIANCE: (3 ch c by Midnight Hawk – Princess Geeta) – Bypassed the Jamaica Derby Classic and instead competed in a seven-furlong (1,400m) race on August 16 where he finished second by 4 ¾ lengths behind Antarctica. To challenge Captain Sparrow, he will need to significantly improve his performance.

4. CAPTAIN SPARROW: (3 b c by Savoy Stomp – Rackam’s Mistress) – Is the standout choice for this race. His close third-place finish in the Jamaica Derby behind demonstrates his talent and ability to handle the distance. With his strong breeding and consistent training, he is poised for an easy win.

5. BRENDA BOY: (3 b c by Savoy Stomp – Delightful Brenda) – Lacks the class and speed of the other runners and is unlikely to contend for the top prize.

6. AMMA: (3 b f by Bern Identity – Blufield) – can be safely bypassed in this race, as she has shown little promise in her previous performances.

7. PROVIDENT: (3 ch c by Sensational Slam – Dream Point) – Provident’s fifth-place finish in the Jamaica Derby was disappointing, but he may step up a place or two here. His breeding suggests he can handle the distance, and he may surprise with a strong performance.

8. ROSETTA: (3 rn f by Bold Conquest – Khadiliah) – faces an impossible task to repeat her previous win, given the strength of the field. She may struggle to keep up with the pace.