Atomica out of the ordinary — extra ordinary
Atomica in an awe inspiring run won the 2022 – 1000 Guineas Classic (one mile) in dominating fashion on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at Caymanas Park.
The filly, who is now unbeaten in five career starts, won the native-bred three-year-old Futurity race for fillies by 20 lengths in a blistering time of 1:37.0. That time was a new Stakes record for the celebrated event. The splits were 24.4 x 47.3 x 1:11.2.
THE RACE
Atomica surged to the front of the field at the intersection of the seven-furlong (1,400m) point and held the lead ahead of the champion two-year-old of last season, Golden Wattle (Tevin Foster), Our Angel (Robert Halledeen) and Silent Mission (Omar Walker). While maintaining a steady gallop, Atomica opened on rivals down the backstretch and was comfortable, as easy as can be, while navigating the half-mile (800m) heading towards the top of the straight. Entering the lane, it was a matter of how far Atomica would win, as the chestnut filly exploded in the deep stretch, going away to to score without the rider using the whip.
OWNER’S COMMENTS – DON WEHBY
I have won a Classic race before with Uncle Donny, but today’s resounding victory symbolises the most rewarding and fulfilling victory that I’ve had in my time owning horses. Atomica, continues to amaze with her proficiency in winning all of her five races from as many starts and continues with her record-breaking performances. In the Guineas, Atomica clocked 1:37.0 seconds flat for the distance, to erase the record set by Thornbird. Thornbird was one of the greatest native-bred fillies to have graced our island’s track. I am blessed and quite fortunate to get the chance to own a horse of this calibre. Only once in a lifetime, you may get to own a racehorse like Atomica, she is something quite special. Gary Subratie, a genius of a trainer, who was instrumental in her acquisition, and has done a classic job with her. Next is the St Leger where we will then draw the line and decide the next step, whether it will be the Oaks or the Jamaica Derby. Thanks also to jockey Dane Dawkins, who knows this filly inside out and groom Errol Thomas for the professional jobs they have done.“
THE POSITIVES
There is just one question to be answered. Can Atomica effectively get a distance of ground for the St Leger (1o furlongs) and the Derby (12 furlongs)? Based on her Guineas performance, the answer is, yes.
Now the stage is set for the grand showdown between top filly Atomica and top colt Blue Vinyl in the St Leger.
THE NEGATIVES
Golden Wattle, the champion two-year-old of last season, again failed to click. This must be worrying for her connections.