The Thunderbird Trophy: A thrilling showdown at Caymanas Park
Tomorrow’s nine-race card at Caymanas Park promises an electrifying spectacle, with the $1.4-million Thunderbird Trophy taking centre stage. This Open Allowance contest brings together seven talented three-year-olds and upward, each vying for glory over 7 furlongs (1,400m).
Here’s an in-depth look at each runner’s chances:
1. ABILITY: (4 b c by Lion Tamer – Disability Charm) – Ability has been a model of consistency this season, boasting three wins, one second, place and one third in six starts. His last outing on July 7 saw him finish sixth by 11 lengths behind Mamma Mia and Funcaandun over 7 ½ furlongs (1,500m). Despite this, Ability has been working well and is expected to run accordingly.
2. FEARLESS SOUL: (4 ch c by Soul Warrior – Rumble) – Fearless Soul faces significant competition in this contest and appears unlikely to contend. His chances of winning seem slim.
3. FURTHER AND BEYOND: (6 ch h by Blue Pepsi Lodge – Rumble
) – This former Horse of the Year has performed decently in recent races. In his last outing, he finished third, 12 lengths behind Funcaandun and Atomica, on August 24 over 9 furlongs and 25 yards. Further and Beyond should perform well, especially with the addition of a visor and removal of his tongue-tie.
4. ATLANTIC CONVOY: (CAN) (4 ch c by Stormy Atlantic – My Sweet Emily
) – Atlantic Convoy won the Arthur Jones Trophy on August 17, defeating Sensational Move by 3 ¾ lengths over 6 furlongs (1,200m) in a time of 1:13.4. He should earn for his connections here.
5. THALITA: (4 ch f by Soul Warrior – Luminous Trieste) – Thalita finished third, 16 lengths behind Mahogany and Easy As ABC, over 7 furlongs on August 10. Despite this, she has been working exceptionally well and could lead home rival contenders.
6. MAJOR DANGER (USA): (4 b c by Majestic City – Clean Eleven) – Major Danger won his last start, beating Laban and Atlantic Convoy by three-quarters of a length over 7 ½ furlongs on August 6. However, he faces tougher opposition this time and may struggle to repeat.
7. SENSATIONAL MOVE: (4 ch c by Sensational Slam – Money Move) –
Sensational Move won last time out but is unlikely to repeat against stronger rivals.