Mahogany to coast in The Viceroy
The Viceroy Trophy (G1), honouring one of the best ever to grace the track, is the main attraction on tomorrow’s (Saturday, April 22) 10-race programme.
The Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upwards going over one mile (1,600m) has attracted a field of six runners, including the top-rated Mahogany, champion stayer Calculus, and improving foreigner I Am Fred.
Below is an analysis of the runners and their chances of carrying home this prestigious trophy.
1. KING ARTHUR: (6 b g by Natural Selection – Geisha’s Art) – A former Jamaica Derby winner who is slowly rounding into form. King Arthur finished fourth by 8 lengths behind stablemate I Am Fred in the Saint Cecelia Cup over 6 ½ furlongs (1,300m) on April 8. King Arthur should once again give his best, and will surely make his presence felt without winning.
2. MAHOGANY: (6 ch g by Sensational Slam – Mete-Orite) – The current top-rated horse in the country returns for his second outing of the season. Mahogany opened his 2023 account with a 2½-length win in the Eileen Cliggott Memorial Cup over 6 ½ furlongs on February 4. Mahogany should find this trip of one mile well within his reach, as evidenced by his 4½-length win in the Ian Levy Cup over 8 ½ furlongs (1,700m) on December 31 of last year. If he can reproduce a similar effort, then Mahogany should easily win this race.
3. CALCULUS: (5 b h by Sensational Slam – Trinket Box) – Champion stayer who seeks his second-consecutive win. Calculus was successful on his seasonal debut on February 25 when he won the Miracle Man Cup at 9 ½ furlongs (1,900m). Calculus packs enough class to get one over Mahogany but he has to make every step right.
4. SISTREN TREASURE (USA): (3 b f by Brethren – Katira) – Won well over the circular course of 9 furlongs and 25 yards (1,820m) on March 1. Sistren Treasure is going to find repeating a tall order and should be left behind.
5. I AM FRED (USA): (5 b g by Golden Lad – Happy Hailey) – Slowly but surely working his way to the top. I Am Fred completed his second-consecutive win this season from as many starts with an impressive effort in the Saint Cecelia Cup on April 4. I Am Fred, a versatile sort, and should appreciate this extended trip and could cause some problems for the favourite.
6. POSITIVE ID: (5 b h by Bern Identity – Bubble Gal Bubble) – Consistent campaigner, who should not be a contending factor.