A highly anticipated clash is set to unfold at Caymanas Park this afternoon as Horse of the Year Funcaandun takes on talented Barnaby in the $1.75-million Distinctly Irish Trophy. The competition promises to be fierce, with both horses boasting impressive credentials.

The Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward over nine furlongs and 25 yards is the feature event on a 10-race card, scheduled to start at 5:05 pm. With Funcaandun’s recent form and experience pitted against Barnaby’s determination and talent, the stage is set for a riveting showdown.

Funcaandun has won 10 times from 14 starts, including last year’s ultra-rich Mouttet Mile race. After finishing third in the Ian Levy Cup behind Barnaby on April 5, Funcaandun has hit top form, winning his last two races which included the Mark My Word Trophy (nine furlongs and yards) and She’s A Maneater Trophy (one mile). 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. Robert Halledeen remains in the saddle.

Barnaby, on the other hand, has won four of his seven starts, showcasing his talent and potential. After a 140-day break he’s looking sharp, and his win in the Ian Levy Cup suggests he can perform well in high-level competition. Shane Ellis will ride Barnaby, who aims to build momentum for the December Mouttet Mile for which he’s already qualified. Barnaby’s determination and talent make him a force to be reckoned with, and he could potentially upset Funcaandun’s plans.

With no other horse in the line-up able to match their class and talent, the stage is set for an intense, head-to-head battle. The outcome hangs in the balance as these two champions clash in a contest that promises to be nothing short of electrifying.

Ones to watch:

Race 1)
Cataba/God of Love/Magical Mood

Race 2)
Hickory Slim/Lucy on the Go/Bobbytwobad

Race 3)
King’s Crown/Firecracker/Battle Angel

Race 4)
Novio/Fernando/Comuna Trece

Race 5)
Rush of Class/Enthusiastic/Platinum Princess

Race 6)
Uncaptured Empress/Kissmet/Manny Slam

Race 7)
Midnight Galaxy/Milos/Brompton Alex

Race 8)
Prince Roy/Brompton Boy/Enthusiasm

Race 9)
Barnaby/Funcaandun/Girvano

Race 10)
Himaya/Golden Lawyer/Chesney