MOJITO VS SIR DON
…Class clashes with youth in Saint Cecelia Trophy showdown
The 11th running of the $1.4-million Saint Cecelia Trophy, an Open Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward over 6 ½ furlongs (1,300m), takes centre stage on tomorrow’s racecard at Caymanas Park.
The Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide takes a close look at the six runners entered and their chances of winning.
1) WALL STREET TRADER (USA): (7 dk b/br g by Vancouver – Selva) – Proven over the trip. Won here on February 18 in a sharp 1:20.0 flat. He’s a seasoned campaigner with tactical speed and the grit to fight late. If he gets a clean break, he makes a brave bid. Respected.
2) SIR DON (USA): (3 b c by Spun to Run – Enamored) – The wildcard. Last time he was stretching out to 7 ½ furlongs (1,500m) and stopped the clock in a quick 1:31.2. That’s serious for a three-year-old. He’s up in class and taking on older horses for the first time, but he’s improving fast. On raw talent and light weight, he could put these away if he handles the cutback to 6 ½ furlongs.
3) GOODBYE FIREFLY (USA): (5 b h Mucho Macho Man – Shanghai Lady) – Comes in hot with two straight wins, but both were against softer. This is a major class hike. Needs a career-best and others to falter.
4) MOJITO: (6 gr h by Savoy Stomp – Fiftyshadesofray) – The class of the field. Seasonal debut after running 10th in December’s Mouttet Mile. Before that? Back-to-back wins, including the Jamaica Cup over 9 ½ furlongs (1,900m). He’s a proven Grade 1 performer dropping into Open Allowance. Reports say he’s training lights-out. Question is the 6 ½ trip — he’s better going longer — but class often carries. If he’s 90 per cent fit, he fights out the finish.
5) ALLEGIANCE: (5 ch h by Midnight Hawk – Princess Geeta) – Hard to make a case. Hasn’t shown enough against this type.
6) ZULU WARRIOR: (5 ch h by Soul Warrior – Lookatmenow) – Honest as the day is long. Shows up, runs his race, picks up a cheque. Rarely wins at this level, but never disgraced.
The Verdict: This comes down to whether Mojito is forward enough first-up. On ability, he’s a standout. If he needs the run, Sir Don is the dangerous improver who could blow by them late with a featherweight. Wall Street Trader is the seasoned pro who’ll ensure it’s honest up front.
Best Value: Sir Don — three-year-old taking on elders, but that 1:31.2 says he might be special.