A compelling field is set for Saturday’s nine-race card at Caymanas Park, with the day’s spotlight shining on the running of the Lui Chie Poo Trophy, a competitive eight-furlong contest named in honour of the great 1988 Triple Crown champion trained by 14-time title holder Philip Feanny.

This year’s renewal features several familiar faces and promising match-ups, with top conditioners Philip Feanny, Gary Subratie, Anthony Nunes, and Patrick Lynch all throwing strong contenders into the mix.

Subratie, currently enjoying a strong run, will send out two of the most closely watched entrants: Blue Vinyl and Sistren Treasure (USA). Both runners return just over two weeks removed from commendable efforts in the Labour Day Trophy over seven furlongs on May 23. Blue Vinyl, piloted once again by 2022 champion Dane Dawkins, was a fast-finishing second by a neck behind Interestntimesahead, suggesting he will relish the extra furlong.

Stablemate Sistren Treasure, under 113 lbs with veteran Paul Francis aboard, was a strong closer in that same race, finishing just half a length back in fourth. She now gets an additional furlong to work with and remains a serious threat, especially under the anticipated strong pace.

Philip Feanny, never one to be underestimated on big race days, sends out Fearless Force (USA), a recent gate-to-wire winner over nine furlongs likely to be effective again over the shorter trip. With Richie Shakes, the in-form 7lb apprentice, taking off some weight, Fearless Force is poised to play catch-me-if-you-can tactics from the front.

Nunes counters with Immeasurable Joy (USA), to be ridden by the experienced Wesley Henry. The filly, imported in utero, was five lengths behind Blue Vinyl on Labour Day but could close that gap with added distance and fitness. Mr Senator, the stable’s other runner, will be guided by claimer Romane Gordon and looks set to play a supporting role.

Patrick Lynch, currently sixth in the trainers’ standings, also has a say in the outcome with Atlantic Convoy (CAN), a horse who, on best form, could surprise the leading trio. Lion Charmer, his other entrant, appears outclassed.

In the day’s supporting feature, the Valbert Marlowe Memorial, the progressive Captain Sparrow, trained by Anthony Nunes and to be partnered by Shane Ellis, looks ready to take another step forward. A strong third in the 2024 Jamaica Derby, the colt has been training well and should enjoy the extended nine-furlong trip against a manageable field of six rivals.