A high-stakes showdown is set to headline the card at Caymanas Park as a select group of elite runners, led by 2024 Horse of the Year Funcaandun (USA), lines up for a major Graded Stakes contest over nine furlongs today.

Though it may appear that top horses race infrequently, the limited pool of top-tier talent has prompted the racing office to maintain scheduling flexibility for these marquee events. That approach continues to pay dividends, with today’s renewal shaping up as a compelling contest of class, form and ambition.

Funcaandun, trained by reigning champion Jason DaCosta, returns for only his second outing of the season following a four-month layoff after winning the prestigious Mouttet Mile last December.

His seasonal reappearance in the Ian Levy Stakes on April 5 showed signs of rust, finishing third behind Barnaby (USA) and the ever-dangerous Atomica. Still, the versatile American-bred colt showed enough to warrant optimism about his sharpness moving forward.

Carrying 126lbs, Funcaandun will have to give weight to all six rivals, including Jamaica’s top locally bred contenders Atomica and Run Julie Run who will meet him on more favourable terms at 119lbs and 117lbs,respectively.

Atomica, who is now a six-year-old, continues to impress with her longevity and adaptability. She got the better of Funcaandun in the Ian Levy and ran a solid second to Commandant (USA) in the Seeking My Dream Trophy last month. With six-time former champion jockey Omar Walker in the saddle she remains a formidable opponent, especially over the turns of the extended trip.

Run Julie Run, a talented four-year-old filly, is looking to rebound after finishing fifth in the Ian Levy. Her close third behind Atomica in the Seeking My Dream Trophy suggests that, under a light impost and with a better pace set-up, she could pose a serious threat.

Robert Halledeen, who has two wins from four previous rides aboard Funcaandun, retains the mount and will be hoping for a big performance as the colt seeks to reassert his dominance at the top level.

With conditions set and the key players all reported in good health, today’s feature promises fireworks.

Atomica (Dane Dawkins) on her way to victory in the $6-million Jamaica Cup on November 9, 2024. Garfield Robinson