IN a breathtaking display of speed and dominance Mojito shattered his 11-month hiatus, annihilating rivals in the $1.25-million Kaz HoShay Trophy on Saturday.

The 2022 champion two-year-old reaffirmed his status as a force to be reckoned with, romping to victory in the Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upwards.

Mojito’s jaw-dropping performance left onlookers astounded. The four-year-old grey colt effortlessly traversed the six-furlong (1,200m) distance, crossing the finishing line a staggering 10 1/2 lengths ahead of his nearest challenger.

Initially content to track the pace, Mojito bided his time behind the leaders. However, as the half-mile (800m) turn approached he made his move, slipping into second place behind the fearless Posing Already (Shane Ellis).

Dane Dawkins, Mojito’s skilled jockey, expertly navigated the turn, hugging the inside rails to gain valuable ground. As they entered the lane Dawkins urged Mojito forward, and the Richard Azan trainee unleashed his fury.

With breathtaking acceleration Mojito surged past Posing Already and cruised to a commanding victory. Taurus Boy (Paul Francis) and Oasis Jak (Raddesh Roman) trailed in his wake.

The clock confirmed Mojito’s electrifying feat: 1:12.3 (23.3 x 48.1 x 1:00.2) — a blistering pace that underscored his class and talent.

It was the third winner on the day for Dawkins. The former champion rider won aboard
Simba The Lion for trainer Norman Smith in the eighth race, and
Sugar Sugar for trainer Michael Marlowe in the 10th race.

The combination of owner ACK Stables, trainer Philip Feanny, and jockey Raddesh Roman also secured victory with three winners on the day as they triumphed with
Fearless Force (second race), Impressive Force (third race), and Happy Force (11th race).

With those winners, Roman moved one ahead of Tevin Foster in the race for the jockeys’ championship. Roman took his tally to 115 to Foster’s 114. Foster had two winners on the day — Here Comes Doc and Legit Boss.

– Ruddy Allen