In a spectacular display of equine excellence, the champion racehorse Hello World cemented its legendary status by capturing an unprecedented third consecutive Gold Cup (Grade I) victory at Santa Rosa Park in Arima on December 26. The Boxing Day event culminated with Hello World, under jockey Dillon Khelawan’s expert guidance, demonstrating remarkable dominance by pulling away from stablemate The Goddess Nike in the final stretch to secure a 2.5-length triumph.
The historic victory places Hello World alongside racing immortal Airofaith, who last accomplished the Gold Cup three-peat in 1958. Trainer John O’Brien, celebrating his tenth Gold Cup victory, watched as his two top contenders—Hello World and The Goddess Nike—executed a strategic race after early leader Sneaky Cheeky set the pace.
Despite a troubled start that nearly left him at the gates, El Chico Malo mounted an impressive recovery to claim third position under jockey Jovika Boodramsingh, with Valiante finishing fourth under Richard Balgobin.
The day’s co-feature, the Grade II Juvenile Championship, delivered equal drama as King Jumbie produced a stunning late surge under jockey Jovika Boodramsingh to overtake Sweet Bird and Dream Maker in the final 40 meters. The Lexter Alexis-trained colt secured a half-length victory in a breathtaking finish that required photo review to confirm placements.
With the racing calendar expanding from 12 to 15 events in 2026, O’Brien expressed optimism about the sport’s rejuvenation, noting the substantial turnout and Hello World’s potential for Horse of the Year honors following its Stewards Cup and Gold Cup successes.
The 2026 season is scheduled to commence on January 24, with anticipation already building for Hello World’s next chapter in racing history.