Current Horse of the Year, Funcaandun (USA), is set to make a another strong impression when he takes on five rivals in this afternoon’s $1.75-million She’s A Maneater Trophy feature race over one mile (1,600m) at Caymanas Park.

After an impressive victory in the Mark My Word Trophy on June 15, the talented colt is looking to continue his winning ways. Funcaandun ran out an easy winner by two lengths over the nine furlongs and 25 yards event in a smooth 1:57.2. With a pedigree that boasts Klimt and Fiftyshadesoffun, Funcaandun’s credentials are undeniable.

The mile distance of this race suits Funcaandun perfectly, increasing his chances of success. His trainer Jason DaCosta has clearly identified the colt’s strengths and tailored his preparation to capitalise on them. With a winning formula in place, Funcaandun is poised to dominate the competition.

He has worked brilliantly for this race, having galloped seven furlongs in 1:29.0 with the last six furlongs coming in 1:15.3 on Saturday, July 19. This is clear indication that Funcaandun is on top of his game.

If Funcaandun can replicate his winning performance from the Mark My Word Trophy, he should be a lonely winner here with Robert Halledeen remaining in the saddle. His impressive form and pedigree make him the top contender, and he’ll undoubtedly be a horse to watch in this race. With his current momentum, it’s hard to bet against him.

The three-year-old and upward Open Allowance contest is surprisingly positioned as the fourth event on the 10-race card. The race is set to go off at 2:00 pm with first post at high noon.

While Funcaandun is the top contender in the race, two other American-bred runners, Desert of Malibu and Tiz Tok, are poised to challenge his dominance. Trained by Gary Subratie and Anthony Nunes, respectively, these horses have the talent and form to cause an upset.

Desert of Malibu, with his strong pedigree and expert training, is well-prepared to take on the best. Fresh from a seven-length win over seven and half furlongs (1,500m) where she clocked 1:32.3 on July 5, Desert of Malibu looks well-poised, with impressive morning works and a strong chance of winning. Her recent form suggests she’s in good shape, and her pedigree, bred by Malibu Moon out of Lady Digger, indicates she can handle the mile distance. If she can replicate her winning performance, she’ll surely be a dangerous contender. If Funcaandun puts a hoof wrong, Desert of Malibu will be ready to capitalise on any mistake.

Meanwhile, Tiz Tok, conditioned to perfection by Anthony Nunes, will rely on his speed and agility to make his mark. With a recent win in the Eros Trophy where he came from behind to be horses by half-length over seven furlongs in 1:25.1 and good morning works, Tiz Tok is expected to put up a good fight.

In his last gallop coming into this race on Sunday, July 20, Tiz Tok clocked 1:09.1 for five and a half furlongs with five furlongs done in 1:02.3. Tiz Tok’s speed and agility make him a threat, especially if he can get a good position early in the race.

With both Desert of Malibu and Tiz Tok in the mix, Funcaandun will need to be at his best to overcome these talented challengers. Will he maintain his dominance, or will one of these American-bred runners pull off an upset? The stage is set for an exciting showdown.

Ones to watch

Race 1: Queen Zan/Raw Liquid/Silver Fox

Race 2: Princess Akilah/Phoenix Risen/Rhosa The Warrior

Race 3: Xylophonic Steel/Coalition/Jet Ski Girl

Race 4: Funcaandun/Desert of Malibu/Tiz Tok

Race 5: Radam/Cleopatra Queen/Military Light

Race 6: Undisclosdlocation/Cataba/Whisky

Race 7: Firecracker/Abreathoffreshair/Comehometome

Race 8: Supremasi/Prince Amaan/Huntsman

Race 9: Captain Calico/Allegiance/Cookie Day N Night

Race 10: Legal Fight/Pretty Sassy/Earmark Blitz