The stage is set for a thrilling rematch between American-bred rivals Pack Plays and Desert of Malibu in the prestigious Christopher “Chris” Armond Memorial Sprint Trophy, the feature event on Tuesday’s nine-race card at Caymanas Park.

The Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward will be run over 5 ½ furlongs (1,100m) for a purse of $2 million.

The two rivals have a history, having met twice this season, with Desert of Malibu winning once and Pack Plays finishing ahead of her in their last meeting.

As the two rivals prepare to face off once again, the question on everyone’s mind is: who will emerge victorious? Will Pack Plays exact revenge, or will Desert of Malibu prove too strong?

To gain a better understanding of the contenders, the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide takes a closer look at the six-horse field and analyses the chances of each runner.

1. D HEAD CORNERSTONE: (5 b h by Bern Identity – Soul Of The Heart
) – Unfortunately, D Head Cornerstone has no realistic chance of winning this major sprint race. Note: Visor on.

2. BOOTYLICIOUS: (4 b f by Key to Power – Keep the Faith) – A recent winner of the Ahwhofah Sprint (6 furlongs/1,200m) by 3½ lengths in a quick 1:12.4 on December 14. Bootylicious is expected to make her presence felt in this contest.

3. PACK PLAYS (USA): (3 dk b/br c by Stay Thirsty – Standard Deal) – Pack Plays has a score to settle with Desert of Malibu. After a disappointing fourth-place finish in the Port Royal Sprint where his rider lost his irons, Pack Plays rebounded with a strong performance in the Mouttet Mile, finishing in sixth position ahead of Desert of Malibu, who came home in eighth place. With a good draw and a strong training regimen, Pack Plays is well-poised for victory.

4. MONEY MARKET: (4 b c by Successful Native – Soca Dancer) – A capable runner who should be in the running for third spot here.

5. FEARLESS SOUL: (4 ch c by Soul Warrior – Rumble) – Unfortunately,
Fearless Soul can be safely bypassed in this one.

6. DESERT OF MALIBU (USA): (5 ch m by Malibu Moon – Lady Digger) – A formidable opponent with a strong track record. Desert of Malibu had her four-race winning streak broken in the Mouttet Mile, but she reverts to sprinting here, where she is most effective. With a slight edge over Pack Plays, Desert of Malibu is a strong contender for the win.

As the two rivals prepare to face off in the Christopher Armond Memorial Sprint Trophy, one thing is certain: Only one can emerge victorious. Will it be Pack Plays or
Desert of Malibu? The answer will be revealed on Tuesday.