We Jammin looks to seal Classic season in $7.5-m Jamaica Derby
The final jewel in Jamaica’s 2026 Classic crown series of races will be decided this afternoon when 16 three-year-olds line up for the $7.5-million Jamaica Derby over 12 furlongs (2,400m) at Caymanas Park.
All eyes will be on We Jammin, who missed the Jamaica 2000 Guineas with injury but came back with authority to demolish the Jamaica St Leger field by 4½ lengths on July 5.
The son of Bern Identity confirmed his dominance that day and the step up to 12 furlongs for the Derby appears tailor-made. Barring a mishap, he looks set to add the Blue Riband to his resume.
His biggest danger again figures to be Salute The Don, the Jamaica 2000 Guineas winner. He had no answer to We Jammin in the St Leger and the extra two furlongs may only stretch him further. Still, he’s a genuine Classic winner and is expected to run a solid race without threatening the winner.
The wildcard is Dream Catcher. The filly stamped her authority on her peers with an easy win in the Jamaica Oaks just five days ago on August 1. She was fifth to the colts and geldings in the St Leger, and beating them over this trip is a massive ask, but her current form is as good as any.
London Spirit will be the one picking up the pieces late. He closed well for third, 4¾ lengths behind We Jammin and Salute The Don in the St Leger, and the additional two furlongs (400m) should play right into his hands.
Others to watch include Mohanlal, who was down the track in the St Leger but returned to win impressively over a mile in 1:37.4 on July 18, and Stardom, who was disappointing in sixth last time but should relish the galloping Derby distance.
Senor Biscotti also stayed on for fourth in the St Leger and can be expected to be thereabouts for a piece.
The rest face monumental tasks. Wah A Gwaan won over 9½ furlongs (1,900m) last month but must improve massively. Darwin is coming off a win but this is a different ball game. Maverick, Jo Boxer, I Love Birdie, Bigger Boss, Eye Of The Tiger, Strong Aveenu, and Prosperity Sen, all appear outclassed.
In a race that brings the curtain down on the season, it’s hard to see past We Jammin. If he reproduces his St Leger form, the Derby is his to lose.
The Jamaica Derby is positioned as the ninth event on the 10-race card with a post time of 5:15 pm. First race is at 11:45 am.
