Two stars, Brave Star and Northern Star, both trained by champion trainer Victor Cheeseman, dominated the Barbados Thoroughbred Breeders Association Stakes Race Day when they sailed home with the feature and supporting feature race, respectively, at the Garrison Savannah yesterday.
Guineas winner Gandalf had no answer for stablemate Brave Star, who annihilated his opponent in the 28th Harmony General Insurance Breeders Stakes & Trophy in a new stakes record time of 1:53.
Under a tactical ride by the experienced Rickey Walcott, Brave Star took the fight to Gandalf at the five-furlong pole.
On leaving the 1 800 metres start, Gandalf was engaged by Toco Man and Don’t Doubt Doris for the first three furlongs. At that point Brave Star pounced on Gandalf, prompting jockey Rasheed Hughes to hustle his charge into trying to keep pace with Brave Star.
No pressure
Never under threat, Brave Star created a safety cushion of three lengths on his pursuers, who were all under serious pressure trying to close the widening gap. The son of John Brian out of Strong Opinion looked flawless entering the home stretch compared with his opponents, who were struggling to hear his hooves.
Walcott, knowing the field had been put away, allowed the colt to cruise home without much urging to win by eight solid lengths.
Gandalf then found himself battling with the longest shot on the board, Jackmannygap, for the runners-up position, which he eventually took. Another four lengths back in fourth was another outsider in Whatyouthink.
Cheeseman’s charges took the top three places, giving him the lion’s share of the $36 065 purse.
