Kem, the four-year-old chestnut colt trained by Paul Swaby, produced a stunning performance to win the $1.25-million ROK Rendezvous Trophy at Caymanas Park on Saturday, December 7, 2024.

Ridden by former champion jockey Dane ‘’Warrior Chief’’ Nelson, Kem demonstrated his class and determination to take the top prize.

The race began with Kem breaking well from the gates, and Nelson expertly positioned him in third place down the backstretch, behind Babylove (Dick Cardenas) and Natural Dancer (Dane Dawkins). As the field approached the half-mile (800m) turn, Kem dropped back to fifth position, but Nelson remained patient, biding his time for the perfect moment to strike.

That moment arrived approaching the distance, when Kem made his move, surrounding horses at the top of the lane. In deep stretch, Kem took over, responding well to Nelson’s urgings, and held his gallop well to the line, crossing 2 ½ lengths clear of the field in a time of 1:34.0. Huntsman (Christopher Mamdeen) finished second, with Lion Charmer (Shane Richardson) taking third place.

Nelson’s victory aboard Kem was his first since returning to the saddle from winter break in Canada, and he went on to complete a double on the day, winning the $3-million Bruceontheloose Trophy (presented by Excelsior) aboard Atlantic Convoy. Trained by Patrick Lynch, Atlantic Convoy dominated the Graded Stakes/Open Allowance event over 6 ½ furlongs (1,300m), winning by 6 lengths in a new Stakes Record time of 1:18.4.