CAVAICHI?looks set to record his first win in the pattern Lennox “Ox” Williams Trophy Handicap event over 1 100 metres during today’s Barbados Turf Club’s Big Tent Race Day, at the Garrison Savannah.
The Robert Peirce-trained gelding is expected to take full advantage of Shared Adventure’s non-participation in this event for three-years and older horses rated 115-140 which is also opened to horses rated 114 and below.
Since his disappointing performance in this year’s Gold Cup, this Senator Geoffrey Cave, Sir Martin Arbib and Bill Blevins-owned animal has shown a preference for the short trip.
In his next two efforts he finished fourth and second behind Shared Adventure in both times. Today’s apprentice claimer booking is also expected to enhance his chances.
While Blue Diamonds Stable has turned up loaded for this race with the four-pong attack of Purr Class, Peaceful Envoy, Vitality and Run Alke Run, the return of the speedy Slip Stream at her penny stamp weight of 111 pounds should cause some concern in some quarters.
Boasting career statistics of six wins from 11 starts, this Andrew Nunes-trained filly by Federico out of Valdance Creek has not been seen at the Savannah in 11 months.
With a seeming preference for sprints, her absence might be her downfall. However, she will look to make her presence felt early in the puzzle.
The last efforts of the Anderson Ward pair of Purr Class and Run Alke Run were atrocious as they both finished one from last in separate events.
Both are capable of much better performances and stable first call rider Reshaun Latchman has opted to partner the gelding Run Alke Run.
Purr Class had displayed tremendous potential as a juvenile but since becoming a mare her standard has dropped significantly. However, she does remain competitive and should still be considered as a contender.
Vitality has been very consistent although finding the winner’s enclosure elusive for some time. He usually runs well for jockey Jalon Samuel and is expected to go close again.
Peaceful Envoy took a giant leap down to win the BTC Claimers Condition race, a $15 000 claiming event, by three-quarters of a length. He will need to improve plenty at today’s weight to cause any major worry.
Kingdora rounds out this field. Once the undisputed sprint king of this division, he finished third to Peaceful Envoy two starts ago. On that occasion after being on the engine early, he came through the stretch with the handbrakes up.
A victory here will be most welcomed as he has served racing well but he will need to pull out all the stops.
My Picks
Race 1: Nekitta
Race 2: Byhookorbycreek
Race 3: Cassanova
Race 4: Mudlark (nap)
Race 5: Uncle Jerry
Race 6: Jazz Band
Race 7: Cavaichi
Race 8: Grace Chapel
