In a breathtaking display, the Richard Azan-conditioned Mojito outlasted his rivals to claim the $6-million Jamaica Cup at Caymanas Park on Sunday.

The five-year-old grey horse, ridden by Raddesh Roman, showcased his exceptional speed and endurance, holding off challengers over the demanding nine and a half furlongs (1,900m) distance.

Mojito patiently waited in mid pack behind the early pace, allowing Mamma Mia (Jerome Innis) to lead the charge around the clubhouse turn and down the backstertch. As the field navigated the half-mile turn, Mojito burst through the pack, picking up the lead with Run Julie Run (Dick Cardenas) attached to his inside. Mojito shook off Run Julie Run at the top of the straight and turned on the pressure in deep stretch but despite shortening his stride in the final stages, he held on to secure a length-and-a-half win.
Girvano finished second, with Run Julie Run taking third.

Mojito’s impressive victory earned him a spot in next month’s Mouttet Mile, thanks to the ‘Win and You’re In’ format.

It was the fourth winner on the card for Roman, who had earlier won aboard Tia Maria and Choo Blue for trainer Anthony Nunes and Main Mistress for trainer Peter-John Parsard in the $1.5 million St Elizabeth Distaff.

Meanwhile, Rideallday, trained by Philip Feanny and ridden by Ian Spence, won the $2.5-million Port Royal Sprint. The Graded Stakes event over six furlongs (1,200m) was also a ‘Win and You’re In’ race for the Mouttet Mile.

Racing continues next weekend with races on Saturday and Sunday.