Mojito makes triumphant return to racing
After a 336-day lay-off, Mojito, a talented grey colt, made a stunning return to the track on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
The Savoy Stomp offspring, trained by Richard Azan, in a breathtaking display of speed and dominance, annihilated rivals in the $1.25-million Kaz HoShay Trophy, an Overnight Allowance race over six furlongs (1,200m).
Mojito’s jaw-dropping performance left onlookers astounded. The four-year-old grey colt effortlessly traversed the six-furlong (1,200m) distance, crossing the finishing line a staggering 10 1/2 lengths ahead of his nearest challenger.
Initially content to track the pace, Mojito bided his time behind the leaders. However, as the half-mile (800m) turn approached he made his move, slipping into second place behind the fearless Posing Already (Shane Ellis).
Dane Dawkins, Mojito’s skilled jockey, expertly navigated the turn, hugging the inside rails to gain valuable ground. As they entered the lane Dawkins urged Mojito forward, and the Richard Azan trainee unleashed his fury.
With breathtaking acceleration, Mojito surged past Posing Already and cruised to a commanding victory. Taurus Boy (Paul Francis) and Oasis Jak (Raddesh Roman) trailed in his wake.
The clock confirmed Mojito’s electrifying feat: 1:12.3 (23.3 x 48.1 x 1:00.2) — a blistering pace that underscored his class and talent.
“Well, he is a lot better now than he was last year. He is back to himself now. The plan is to take time with him and see what he can do,” Dawkins told the Jamaica Observer’s
The Supreme Racing Guide.
Mojito’s career had been marked by early success, winning the Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes in 2022 and later claiming victories in the Prince Consort, The Kingston, and the 2000 Guineas as a three-year-old the following year. However, his performance had tapered off, prompting concerns about his well-being.
A disappointing eighth-place finish in the Jamaica St Leger and a fourth-place finish in the Jamaica Derby raised questions about
Mojito’s potential. His subsequent outings against older horses in an Overnight Allowance race and the Mouttet Mile only added to the uncertainty.
However, the victory on Saturday marked a triumphant return for
Mojito, silencing doubts and reigniting excitement about his potential.
