BARNABY, a talented three-year-old American-bred bay colt trained by Anthony Nunes, makes his local debut in the $1.25-million Alsafra Trophy feature today.

Facing nine other competitors in the Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward over seven and a half furlongs (1,500m), Barnaby brings a résumé showcasing three wins and two third-place finishes from six starts, with stakes earnings of US$89,510. Barnaby is one of the foreigners scheduled to race in the US$250,000 Mouttet Mile (invitational) next month.

Barnaby’s pedigree reflects influential sire Tapiture and dam Giants Diva, by Giant’s Causeway. This potent blend of bloodlines has instilled in him a winning combination of speed, agility, and endurance.

Barnaby’s racing career has been marked by consistent improvement and success.

After finishing third in a maiden claiming race on his debut at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on November 18, 2023, Barnaby then went better for his next start on December 14 at Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Going six furlongs on the dirt, Barnaby finished second by three-parts of a length behind Criminal Intent in a maiden special weight contest. However, Barnaby was promoted to first place after the disqualification of the winner.

Barnaby’s other two wins came on April 27 and May 12, both at Churchill Downs.

Now, Barnaby sets his sights on conquering local soil in the Alsafra Trophy. With his proven ability and Nunes’ guidance, he is poised to make a lasting impression.
Barnaby’s preparations coming into this race have been nothing short of brilliant.

On November 10 Barnaby galloped six furlongs (1,200m) in a smooth 1:13.4. Prior to that, he breezed four furlongs (800m) on October 27 and October 20 in 48.3 and 48.2, respectively. Barnaby is well poised for a winning debut.

The contest is positioned as the eighth event on the nine-race card with a post time of 4:20 pm. The first race is at 12 pm.

Barnaby is the clear favouirte to dominate the Alsafra Trophy, but the real challenge lies in selecting a runner to complete the exacta. With the remaining contenders evenly matched, predicting a second-place finisher becomes a daunting task.

In essence, any runner could potentially fill the second spot, making the exacta a puzzle to solve. Will it be Rani Bangala, Super Alex, Money Monster, Mr Senator, Legit Boss,
Princess Sylvia, Eazy Peazy, Provocativa, or California that secures the runner-up position? The uncertainty adds excitement to the race.

Ones to watch:

Race 1)
Restoration/Phoenix Risen/Capturemyship

Race 2)
Six Avenue/Kingswood/Sunshine Cat

Race 3)
Slam/PIP/Dancing With A Cat

Race 4)
Chinita Estrella/Princess Cataleya/Lil’ Maggie

Race 5)
Legend of Zarro/Radam/Kencia

Race 6)
She’s Myhedgefund/Workout Cru/Kai On The Go

Race 7)
Francis/Himaya/Battle Angel

Race 8)
Barnaby/Money Monster/Provocativa

Race 9)
Benson/Acknowledgeme/lady Abhamala