Atomica heads to post as favourite in She’s A Maneater Trophy race
She’s A Maneater, one of the most accomplished thoroughbreds to ever grace the racetrack at Caymanas Park, will be honoured once more with the yearly revival of the prize race named for her, on tomorrow’s 10-race card.
A talented field of six runners, including two-time Horse of the Year Atomica and former Horse of the Year Further and Beyond, will compete in the one-mile (1,600m) Graded Stakes/Open Allowance race for horses aged three and up.
The following is an analysis of the runners and their chances of winning the majority of the $1.75-million prize money. The analysis is performed in the post-position draw.
1. FUNCAADUN (USA): (3 b c by Klimt – Fiftyshadesoffun) – Has established himself as a talented and consistent performer, boasting four wins and two second-place finishes from six starts on local soil. Although he was beaten by stablemate Mamma Mia by a length-and-a-half over 7 ½ furlongs (1,500m) on July 7, Funcaandun is expected to put in a solid effort. His ability to adapt to different racing conditions and his strong finish make him a contender, but he may struggle to match the pace of Atomica.
2. BIG BIG DADDY: (7 dk b h by Natural Selection – Just A Flutter) – Appears to have no realistic chance of winning this race. His past performances have not shown the level of quality needed to compete with rivals here and is likely to struggle to make an impact.
3. FURTHER AND BEYOND: (6 c c by Blue Pepsi Lodge – Rumble) – Is no longer the force he once was but he continues to demonstrate that he still packs a punch. His victory over Mahogany by ¾ length in the Seeking My Dream Trophy over 7 ½ furlongs on May 18 showcases his ability to produce telling efforts. While not expected to win, Further and Beyond should make his presence felt.
4. ATOMICA: (5 ch m by Nuclear Wayne – Honkeytonville) – Obviously the horse to beat here, having dominated her rivals with three wins and a second from four starts this season. Her impressive form, including a 15-length win in The Viceroy Trophy on April 1 over this distance in 1:39.2, suggests that she will easily lead home her rivals. The only question mark is: By how far will she win? Because she appears to be in a class of her own.
5. MAMMA MIA: (4 ch f by Soul Warrior – Princess Geeta) – Mamma Mia produced an eye-catching performance when making one move to win over 7 ½ furlongs in 1:30.4. If allowed to dictate the pace and left unmolested on the front end,
Mamma Mia could cause anxious moments for her rivals. However, if challenged early, her stamina may be tested, and she could potentially struggle to maintain her advantage.
6. FRED THE GREAT (USA): (4 b c by Adios Charlie – Joyance) – Has registered back-to-back wins, including a convincing three-length victory in the Bigman In Town Trophy over this distance on June 20. His style of running, coming from behind runners to win, could make him a major player in this race.