IN a bold front-running effort, Benson, trained by Fitnahum Williams, created a mild upset by beating his more-fancied rivals in the $1.25-million George HoSang Trophy feature at Caymanas Park on Saturday.

Sent off at odds of 5-1 in the Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward over six furlongs (1,200m), Benson won by a length and a half, holding off a strong challenge from Mudshaft (Trevor Simpson), Thalita (Robert Halledeen), and Freedom Street (Ismael Velasquez).

Benson’s winning time was 1:14.3 with quarterly splits of 23.1 x 46.4 x 1:00.0, showcasing his speed and endurance. The victory marked a notable upset, with Benson outperforming his more highly touted rivals.

With apprentice rider Richie Shakes aboard, Benson burst to the front at the starting gate and never relinquished his lead. Thalita and Mudshaft trailed closely behind but Benson maintained his advantage.

As the field approached the half-mile (800m) marker, Mudshaft launched a challenge for the lead but Benson swiftly rebuffed the bid and extended his lead entering the lane.

In the straight Benson held a commanding advantage, and although he began to tire in the closing stages he crossed the wire with a comfortable lead, securing the victory.

Former champion jockeys Shane Ellis and Dane Dawkins booted home two winners to share the riding honours. Ellis won aboard Propellant for trainer Gary Subratie in the second, and Sonny T and Chippy for trainer Adrian Prince in the sixth race.

Dawkins was successful aboard Wayne’sCherryLinks for trainer Barrington Bernard in the first race, and Abreathoffreshair for trainer Phillip Lee in the fifth race.

The action continues with races on Saturday and Sunday.