Trainer Rohan Crichton was beaming with pride after Commandant’s resounding 5 ¼-length victory in the $1.4-million Alexander Hamilton Memorial Trophy on Saturday, March 15, 2025.

The five-year-old American-bred bay horse, ridden by champion jockey Raddesh Roman, cruised to victory in the Open Allowance contest, covering 7 furlongs (1,400m) in a smooth 1:24.2 (23.2 x 46.0 x 1:10.4).

For Crichton, this win was more than just a triumph — it was a crucial stop towards the lucrative Mouttet Mile, Commandant’s ultimate target.

“After the New Year’s Day win, what we were trying to do was to prepare him for this year’s Mouttet Mile. So, we are trying to condition him with enough purse winnings as well as trying to focus on the April 5th ‘Win, and you’re in’ race,” Crichton revealed.

Crichton’s strategic planning and meticulous training regimen have clearly paid off, as Commandant’s performance demonstrated a significant leap in form.

“So, this is kind of a stepping stone,” Crichton acknowledged. “He was well-presented and well-trained for it [race]. We weren’t overlooking this race, but he trained pretty extensively over the last two to three weeks coming into this race.”

Crichton also praised Roman’s masterful ride, which allowed Commandant to showcase his exceptional talent.

“Raddesh is the champion jockey, and all I said to him was, ‘If you feel like you want to get to the lead, do it, as long as you’re not overusing him,” Crichton recalled.

“Raddesh rode him very well, and he has worked him the last three or four times. I’m really happy not only with how he worked with him in the mornings but also with today’s ride. That was all Raddesh,” he added.

With Commandant’s next assignment likely to be the Ian Levy Cup on April 5, Crichton is confident that his charge is on track for a successful year.

Commandant burst out of the starting gates, securing second position behind the speedy Mamma Mia (Omar Walker). However, as the field approached the 6-furlong (1,200m) marker, Commandant made his move, swiftly taking command and setting a scorching pace.

As the half-mile (800m) point loomed, Commandant began to assert his dominance, leaving his rivals in his wake. From that moment on, it was a one-horse show, with Commandant gliding effortlessly to the finish line.

Inspire Force (Tajay Suckoo) staged a late rally to snatch second place, while Run Julie Run (Reyan Lewis) secured third spot.

Roman exuded confidence and conviction in his post-race assessment.

“I wasn’t worried at any stage during the race. I’ve been preparing Commandant in the mornings, and I knew he was primed for a big performance. I was 101 per cent confident of winning. I asked him to go, and he responded well and in the final furlong, I just locked off the engine,” Roman said.

Roman’s glowing praise for Commandant underscored the horse’s exceptional ability.

“He’s one of the best horses I’ve had the privilege of riding in my career,” Roman declared.