BARNABY, a talented three-year-old American-bred bay colt trained by Anthony “Baba” Nunes, made a stunning debut on Sunday, annihilating the competition in the $1.25-million Alsafra Trophy, the main attraction on the nine-race card.

Ridden by Omer Walker, Barnaby effortlessly dispatched his rivals in the Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward over seven and a half furlongs (1,500m). The impressive colt, specifically imported for next month’s Mouttet Mile, cruised to a 17-length victory.

Initially racing among the backmarkers, Barnaby gained momentum and surged through the field to take the lead heading into the half-mile (800m) turn. From there, he never looked back, powering home to stop the ticking of the clock in an impressive time of 1:31.0 (23.3 x 46.4 x 1:12.0 x 1:24.3).

Barnaby’s blistering performance fell just shy of the track record of 1:29.2, set by Sky Train in 1983. Money Monster (Richard Henry) and Mr Senator (Romario Spencer) trailed in second and third place, respectively.

Nunes’ exciting prospect has now thrown down the gauntlet ahead of the Mouttet Mile, and racing fans eagerly anticipate his next outing.

It was the second winner on the day for Nunes who had earlier saddled Restoration (Tevin Foster) in the opening event. Foster went on to win aboard Six Avenue in the very next race for trainer Paul Hylton, for a double as well.

Jockey Dane Dawkins also had two winners as he was successful with Francis in the $1.1-million Fossie McNeil Memorial Cup for trainer Richard Azan and Noble Attitude for trainer Gary Subratie in the ninth and final event.

Racing is scheduled to continue on Saturday.