GALLANT Groom (US) comes into this afternoon’s $1.25-million Errol “Big Sub” Subratie Memorial Trophy at Caymanas Park in unstoppable form and is the horse to beat in the three-year-old and upward Overnight Allowance contest over one mile (1,600m).

The four-year-old American-bred dark bay/ brown colt has put together two impressive consecutive victories — winning by 16 lengths over 6½ furlongs (1,300m) on August 29 and by 2¾ lengths over 6 furlongs (1,200m) on September 26.

Now attempting a mile for the first time, a trip that should suit him very well on breeding, he is expected to make it three wins on the trot.

On paper, Gallant Groom (Golden Lad – D D Renegade) is the clear one to beat. The contest is positioned as the third event on the nine-race card with a post time of 1:15 pm.

First race is at 11:50 am. Gallant Groom’s main danger is Neo Star, trained by Anthony Nunes.

Despite winning just once from 11 starts this season, the veteran has the class and talent to win at this level and a mile is the perfect distance for him. Expect a brave effort if the favourite fails to see out the trip.

Recent winner Slam Sharp will find it extremely difficult to repeat in this stronger company, while Oil Machine has some ability on his day but this is a significant step up in class and he is likely to be left behind.

The remainder can be safely bypassed.

Nebuchadnezzar is out of form and out of his depth; California Gold has shown no recent form to recommend him; Whizz Kidd is struggling and has no realistic chance; while King Piye has shown little to suggest he can make an impact.

Ones to watch:

Race 1) Disobedient Bull/Delightful One/Secret Sensation

Race 2) Luna Eclipse/Awhodat/Glamma Girl

Race 3) Gallant Groom/Neo Star/Oil Machine

Race 4) Money Monster/Passwrod/Laban

Race 5) King Kid/El Capiton/She’s ideal

Race 6) Taylor Made/Eye of the Tiger/Giving Thanks

Race 7) Brahma Bull/Riches to Rags/Design Diva

Race 8) Prince Daniel/Secret Mission/Planner

Race 9) War to Remember/Maregarita/Never Despair