She’s A Maneater’s offspring, Stormbringer, makes splashy debut
Jason DaCosta’s highly touted colt dominates maiden condition race by 24 lengths
Saturday, January 4, 2025, racing fans were introduced to Stormbringer, the bay colt sired by Bold Conquest, out of the legendary former Triple Crown winner She’s A Maneater.
Stormbringer, trained by Jason DaCosta, with Robert Halledeen in the saddle, started his career in a maiden condition race for native-bred three-year-olds over 5½ furlongs (1,100m). His morning gallops had also hinted at something special, and he did not disappoint.
Stormbringer broke well, relaxed early, and then accelerated with purpose to leave rivals in his wake. The margin of victory — a staggering 24 lengths — was the longest in recent times.
While the final time of 1:07.0 may not have been spectacular, the manner of Stormbringer’s victory suggested that Jamaica has unearthed a rising star.
“He is very promising,” DaCosta exclaimed.
“He didn’t run against much today, but he did exactly what we wanted him to do. He broke well, relaxed early, and accelerated when asked. I’m happy with the performance, and his preparation coming into the race were good,” DaCosta told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.
The trainer’s enthusiasm was tempered with caution, but he couldn’t hide his optimism about Stormbringer’s potential.
“Let’s keep our fingers crossed and hopefully he will be good enough to be Classic material. We’re hoping for the best. Everything looks promising so far,” DaCosta said.
Stormbringer went straight to the front at the start, ahead of Giant Vigorous (Tyrese Anderson), Mineola (Abigail Able), and Prince Ogilvey (Carlos Blake). As the field approached the half-mile turn, Stormbringer subtly increased the pace, with Mineola launching a brief challenge.
Rounding the final bend with a comfortable advantage, Halledeen straightened Stormbringer for the drive down the straight. Despite the absence of serious challengers, Stormbringer showcased his potential, effortlessly shifting gears to achieve a resounding victory.
Giant Vigorous came home in second place, 2½ lengths in front of Althia (Phillip Parchment) in third place. Splits for the race were 25.1 x 48.4 x 1:00.2.
