Former three-time champion trainer Anthony “Baba” Nunes is confident that 2025 could finally be the year that he reclaims the top spot from reigning champion Jason DaCosta, after three consecutive seasons finishing as runner-up.

Nunes, who dominated the local racing scene from 2019 to 2021, believes his barn is in prime condition to mount a serious challenge for the title once again.

“We are ahead of schedule because I really thought that 2026 is when we were aiming towards the championships,” said Nunes. “But 2025, we seem to be in the thick of things and so it is going to be really interesting.”

With a solid group of promising horses under his care, Nunes shared his team is well-positioned to push for the title down the stretch.

“I am feeling really good about the barn. I have some really nice two-year-olds and I have some nice A class horses,” he said. “I think we have a nice cross section of horses that will keep us competitive for the rest of the year.”

Nunes pointed out that the rising level of competition, particularly from DaCosta, has elevated the excitement around the trainer’s race this season.

“I expected it. I think it will be pretty good for racing that both of us have a nice barn,” he added. “It should be nice and exciting for the next couple of years.”

While acknowledging that there is work still to be done, Nunes expressed satisfaction with his stable’s progress and performance so far.

“I am very pleased so far. The staff is working hard, the results are there, and we are starting the Classic season, so let’s see how it goes from here.”

Nunes also highlighted the significance of the lucrative Mouttet Mile, a race that could very well determine the outcome of the championship race this year. The Mouttet Mile carries a purse of $30 million.

“The truth of the matter is the size of the Mouttet Mile purse makes it a different dynamic from what it used to be,” he said. “Whoever wins that race is going to have a major advantage, so we will see.”