Unspun makes statement with dominant win in Hover Craft Trophy
Trainer Donovan Hutchinson is cautiously optimistic about Unspun’s potential after the two-year-old American-bred colt’s impressive maiden victory in the $2-million Hover Craft Trophy on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
Unspun, ridden by Christopher Mamdeen, dismantled the competition in the Restricted Allowance I contest for native-bred and imported two-year-olds, winning by 10 ¼ lengths in a time of 1:13.4 over six furlongs (1,200m). The event was the Betting, Gaming, and Lotteries Commission (BGCL)/Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) Millionaire Series Race #2.
Unspun broke sharply from his starting position, then settled comfortable comfortably in second place behind the speedy Miss MoneyPenny, ridden by Tevin Foster.
As the field approached the half-mile turn, Unspun made his move, drawing alongside
Miss MoneyPenny navigating the turn before taking command at the top of the lane. From there, it was a one-horse race, as Unspun accelerated effortlessly to cross the finish line ahead of Burning Edge (Youville Pinnock), with Miss MoneyPenny fading to third.
Trainer Donovan Hutchinson beamed with pride as he praised his charge’s impressive performance.
“He’s a very nice horse, still green but definitely a good horse in the making,” Hutchinson told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.
Hutchinson also acknowledged the role of owner Collin Elcook, who has brought his horses to Jamaica to compete.
“This is a nice win for him,” he said.
Unspun’s victory was especially sweet given his progression from his first two starts, where he finished second under Guyanese rider Michael Semple. The jockey’s change to Mamdeen proved pivotal, and Hutchinson noted, “We said let’s give him a try, and it all worked out in the end.”
Mamdeen was also beaming with pride after the race.
“I feel very good to get the job done as always,” Mamdeen said, grinning from ear to ear. “It’s a very good experience, and I’m grateful.”
Mamdeen, who has been riding in Canada, brought his international expertise to the table, expertly guiding Unspun to the win.
“The experience over there was very good, and it feels good to come back here and win races. The performance from Unspun was very good. He’s young and with more room for improvement, I think he will develop into a nice runner,” Mamdeen said.
