First major test for most Classic race aspirants
The 2018 Classic season steps up quite a notch on Saturday (Feb 24, 2018) with the running of the six-furlong Sir Howard Stakes for three-year-old colts and geldings and the Hotline Stakes for fillies only. Only horses at the non-winners of two level are eligible for these two preparation races for the Classic races.
This year the first two Classic races are the 1000 and 2000 Guineas competed for over a mile. The 1000 Guineas for fillies only is set for Saturday April 14 and the 2000 Guineas (colts and geldings) on Sunday April 15 in what the promoting company is offering as a ‘Classic Weekend’ of racing.
In the Hotline Stakes a lot of attention will be placed on the likes of Brandy trained by Wayne DaCosta who has not lived up to expectations this year after a good juvenile season and the impressive Disability Charm from the barn of the inform Patrick ‘Wacky’ Lynch. Disability Charm won on debut and is regarded as a good horse in the making.
Other probable starters in the Hotline that should gather attention are Breezy Adlih trained by Michel Marlowe, Esperanza, Fayrouz and Fashionista trained by Anthony Nunes, and Sergeant Reckless who come from under the care of Philip Feanny.
Apart from Brandy, champion trainer DaCosta also has as possible starters Greek Goddess and recent winner Yaya’s Dream.
The Sir Howard includes some talented young horses, many of them catching the eyes of pundits when they won their maiden races.
Heading this grouping is the Lynch-trained Drone Strike who literally dropped out of the skies to win his one race to date in spectacular fashion.
Coming in with high expectations are also Jamal James from the camp of trainer Fitzroy Glispie, Adonis representing the Nunes stables, and the tough Royal Aviator for new trainer Marvin Campbell.