IN a stunning upset, Buttercup claimed victory in the Abbie Grannum Memorial Cup feature for two-year-old maiden special weight over seven furlongs, at Caymanas Park on Sunday.

Despite entering the race at odds of 27-1 Buttercup, trained by Richard Azan and ridden by veteran jockey Oniel Scott, put on an excellent performance, completing the race in a time of 1:31.1 with splits of 24.3, 48.1, and 1:15.0.

Buttercup, positioned in fourth place as they entered the home stretch, showcased an impressive turn of foot in the final furlong, overtaking her rivals and securing the victory. Blu Sensation, with Oniel Mullings in the saddle, finished second while Buttercup’s stablemate Matuso claimed third place.

Azan expressed his satisfaction with Buttercup’s performance, saying, “Both of us knew this horse had a very good chance of winning because she has worked extremely well. However, she jumped a little bad at the starting gate, and maybe if she didn’t jump so bad she would have won a little easier.

“But, she is really a good filly and she really wants to go long, and today was seven furlongs so at a mile it would be even better.”

Jockey Samantha Fletcher achieved a significant milestone, securing her 50th victory at Caymanas Park yesterday. Riding Snowflakes, trained by Colin Ferguson, Fletcher expressed her delight at reaching this accomplishment, thanking trainers and owners for their support.

“I am feeling pretty good about this milestone victory. And I must say thanks to all trainers and owners because if it wasn’t for them this wouldn’t be possible, and I have to show them my respect and appreciation,” she said.

“This victory really feels good because the last race that I won was in March, earlier this year, even though I went to Canada and came back during that time. I am really excited about this milestone, knowing that as a female jockey I have won so many races in my career in a short space of time, despite facing injuries. I appreciate this a lot.”