Competitive-looking contest in Division 1 of Arthur Jones Mem Cup
The 20th running of the Arthur Jones Memorial Cup takes centre stage on tomorrow’s 10-race card, featuring two sections of three-year-olds and upward competing over six furlongs (1,200m) at the Overnight Allowance level for a purse of $1.25 million each.
Here’s the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide’s in-depth assessment of each runner’s chances in Division One:
1. STORM A COME : (5 b h by Storm Craft – Terra Marique) – Unfortunately,
Storm A Come appears outclassed in this field and is unlikely to make an impact.
2. SENSATIONAL MOVE: (4 ch c by Sensational Slam – Money Move
) – After finishing a good third by 6 ½ lengths behind Is That A Fact and Madelyn’s Sunshine over six furlongs on July 13, Sensational Move steps down in class and has been working well. He’s a strong contender for the top spot, leveraging his speed and agility.
3. PRESS CONFERENCE: (6 ch g by Twilight Time – Lady Shankari) – Building on his second-place finish by half-length behind Madelyn’s Sunshine at 5 ½ furlongs on August 3, Press Conference is expected to be competitive again. The distance increase should suit him, and he’s likely to be in the mix.
4. PERFECT BREW: (5 b g by Bern Identity – Moonlight Brew) – With a recent close second over 6 ½ furlongs, Perfect Brew is poised to make a strong impression here. His class and talent make him a top contender, as he should benefit from his first run in six months.
5. CHOCOMO (USA) (3 b c by Backtalk – Chocolate Chippi) – This talented foreigner has impressed with four wins from eight starts on local soil. While facing stiff competition, Chocomo shouldn’t be overlooked and could surprise.
6. POSING ALREADY (5 b h by Northern Giant – Geisha Glory) – He appears out of his depth in this field and is unlikely to feature prominently.
7. A GIFT FROM BEN: (5 ch m by Here Comes Ben – Sage’s Giftbox) – Despite her potential, A Gift From Ben is not expected to make a significant impact in this race. Note: Blinkers off.
8. ATLANTIC CONVOY (CAN): (4 ch c by Stormy Atlantic – My Sweet Emily) – After a solid third-place finish by 1 ¾ lengths behind Major Danger and Laban over 7 ½ furlongs on August 6, Atlantic Convoy should put in another good effort. Cutting back in distance shouldn’t be an issue, and he’s likely to be competitive.
9. MILOS: (4 b c by Casual Trick – The Vibes Lady) – As a consistent runner,
Milos should perform well in this field. His reliability makes him a dark horse contender.