Caymanas Park becomes the epicenter of Jamaican horse racing excitement today as twelve promising two-year-old thoroughbreds compete in the prestigious Wayne daCosta Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes. The one-mile (1,600m) Futurity event features a substantial $4-million purse, creating intense anticipation among racing enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Leading the field as the probable favorite is Salute The Don, a chestnut colt demonstrating exceptional form in recent performances. With one victory and a strong second-place finish behind the highly-talented Sir Don in two starts this season, this offspring of Aveenu Malcainu and Abicadabby has trained impressively leading up to today’s event. His previous performance, finishing 13¾ lengths behind Sir Don over 7 furlongs on November 29, demonstrates the caliber of competition he has faced.
Several contenders emerge as potential challengers for the top prize. Tia Maria, a chestnut filly, has shown remarkable improvement by securing her maiden victory in her fourth attempt, covering 6 furlongs in 1:16.2. Her current sharpness in exercise suggests she could pose a significant threat at this ideal distance.
Fernando represents another serious competitor, having previously finished third behind both Sir Don and Salute The Don. The chestnut colt has trained exceptionally well and benefits from the expertise of jockey Dane Nelson, potentially enabling him to overcome the favorite’s advantage.
Fidelity, a bay gelding, cannot be overlooked after his record-breaking performance on October 25, where he covered 4½ furlongs in 53.0 seconds. His strong training regimen leading to this event indicates he remains in peak condition.
The field also includes Midnight Traveller, London Spirit, We Jammin, God’s Plan, Senor Biscotti, Bigger Boss, Prosperity Sen, and Darwin, each bringing unique racing equipment and strategies to the competition. Various horses will compete with first-time Lasix administration, tongue-ties, blinkers, and figure-8 equipment, adding strategic dimensions to this high-stakes juvenile event.