Allegiance, a talented three-year-old chestnut colt, put the finishing touches on his preparation for the prestigious Jamaica Derby Classic with a thrilling come-from-behind victory in a Restricted Stakes contest on July 20, 2024.

Trained Anthony “Baba” Nunes, Allegiance (sired by Midnight Hawk out of Princess Greeta) unleashed a powerful late surge to edge out his rivals by a short head. The contest, held over 7 furlongs (1,400m), was open to imported three-year-olds and upward (non-winners of three) and native-bred three-year-olds and four-year-olds (non-winners of four).

With this momentum-building win, Allegiance is now poised to take on the best in the Jamaica Derby, the final jewel in the Triple Crown series, scheduled for August 6 over 12 furlongs (2,400m).

Allegiance broke well at the start, settling into third behind El Rapido (Aaron Chatrie) and
Super Alex (Richard Henry). However, Roman restrained his mount, allowing
Grecian Light (Tevin Foster), who was slowly into strides, and Riches to Rags (Shavon Townsend) to pass as the runners galloped down the backstretch.

As the field entered the half-mile turn, El Rapido maintained his lead, but when he blew the turn and went miles wide at the top of the lane, the door opened for Super Alex and Grecian Light to duel for the top spot.

Just when all hope seemed lost, Roman expertly timed Allegiance’s move, and the colt responded with a blistering late kick, nipping Super Alex and Grecian Light at the wire in a photo finish. The final time for the race was recorded at 1:27.4 (24.0 x 48.1 x 1:14.1)