IT promised much and it delivered. The season’s first Classic, the 1,000 Guineas for fillies over one mile turned out to be a real cracker as Argentina, the favourite, did not tango, resulting in Gary Subratie with five runners in the field of 15 had to settle for second and trainer Anthony Nunes gained redemption after losing last year’s with Star Flyer.

And not to be outdone, it was two Panamanian jockeys, Dick Cardenas and Ameth Robles, who fought out the finish, needless to say it was Cardenas who was triumphant.

The following is an analysis of the 1,000 Guineas in order of finish. Number eight Princess Sassy was a late non-starter.

1st SELECTABOOK — Did not lead as anticipated. Instead, rider Dick Cardenas kept the Natural Selection-Buyabook bay filly off the headlines and, from the five-furlong marker, moved her on the outside as she picked off rivals. Selectabook got within striking distance of the leaders, entering the straight close to Rhea’s A Superstar and Lady Sharvani. She dismissed those two and, when Perfect Day came with her challenge, had enough to win in style. It was an unexpected win by Selectabook, but one which demonstrates how quickly a three-year-old can grow and develop. Kudos all round to trainer Anthony Nunes who was winning his second 1,000 Guineas following Latonia’s success in 2004.

2nd PERFECT DAY — Was always in with a chance, except when going wide at the top of the straight and then reverting towards the inside rails for her final charge. By taking this ill-advised route, Perfect Day dissipated any chance she may have had as she ended up losing by just under two lengths. A better judged ride might have seen a different result for Perfect Day and trainer Gary Subratie.

3rd GO GO TRAIN — Ranked outsider who ran the race of her life to finish third running on strongly. She will do well over longer trips and is a credit to the hard work and patience of trainer Harry Parsard.

4th RHEA’S A SUPERSTAR — Ran out of her skin to lead for at least six of the eight furlongs. Was still fighting hard in the finish and will play a role certainly in the upcoming 10-furlong Jamaica Oaks. A very encouraging run.

5th LADY SHARVANI — A disappointing run by this well-backed filly. Seemingly, she is not effective going over seven furlongs. Back to the drawing board.

6th LADY ABHIJITA — Stayed around to get a piece of the purse pie.

7th ARGENTINA — Was all the rage before the race. Ran dismally as, after being up with the pack from the off, Argentina simply regressed and regressed. The anticipated late kick did not materialise. Many were questioning the move to give the ride to Winston Griffiths as his riding style does not mesh with the running style. Based on previous races, Argentina was never one to be close to the pace; always saving her best for a late kick in the final two furlongs, therefore being fairly close to the headlines was foreign to her natural tendencies. Maybe Trevor Simpson is a better option for the Oaks.

Of the rest, Country Train, Zacapa, Western Rose, Olympic Prospect, Official Report, Fierceandfabulous, and Money Move, none did anything to influence the outcome.