The stage is set for a thrilling showdown at the track tomorrow as the $1.75-million Distinctly Irish Trophy takes centre stage on a 10-race card.

Horse of the Year Funcaandun is set to lock horns with the talented Barnaby in the Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest, covering 9 furlongs and 25 yards (1,820m).

Given both horses’ impressive track records, the competition promises to be fierce. Funcaandun has won 10 times from 14 starts, earning the prestigious title of Horse of the Year. Meanwhile, Barnaby has triumphed four times from seven starts, showcasing his talent and potential.

Below, the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide takes a close look at each runner in the seven-horse run and their chances of winning.

1. POWER FROM ABOVE: (5 ch m by Key to Power – Blufield) – Lacking form, this one’s a tough sell. Without recent wins or notable performances it’s hard to see Power From Above making a strong impact in this race.

2. FUNCAANDUN: (4 b c by Klimt – Fiftyshadesoffun) – After finishing third in the Ian Levy Cup behind
Barnaby on April 5, Funcaandun has hit top form, winning his last two races, including the Mark My Word Trophy and She’s A Maneater Trophy. He’s been training well and could make it three wins in a row. With his recent performances and experience, Funcaandun is a strong contender for the win.

3. NEO STAR: (6 b h by Neolithic – Angel Dreams) – No chance of winning this one. Given Neo Star’s current form and performance history it’s unlikely he’ll be able to challenge the top contenders in this race.

4. BLUE VINYL: (6 ch h by Bern Identity – Blufield) – Likely to chase home the top two. Blue Vinyl could be a dark horse in this race, potentially finishing strongly to secure a podium spot.

5. GIRVANO: (3 b c by Girvano – Summer in Midway) – A capable runner who could contest for third, Girvano’s youth and talent make him a promising contender, and he could potentially challenge for that third spot.

6. BARNABY: (4 b c by Tapiture – Giants Diva) – After a 140-day break, Barnaby returns to racing with a winning return looking likely, given his win in the Ian Levy Cup and the distance suiting him. Barnaby’s talent and determination make him a strong contender, and his win in the Ian Levy Cup suggests he can perform well in high-level competition.

7. MAMMA MIA: (5 ch m by Soul Warrior – Princess Geeta) – Expected to be left behind. Unfortunately for Mamma Mia she might struggle to keep up with the pace of the top contenders.

The Distinctly Irish Trophy is shaping up to be an electrifying contest, with Funcaandun and Barnaby going head to head. Will Funcaandun’s experience and consistency prevail, or will Barnaby’s skill and determination upset the odds? The outcome is far from certain, and racing fans are eagerly anticipating the event.