The prestigious Alexander Hamilton Memorial Trophy, featuring a substantial $1.4 million purse, is poised to deliver an electrifying spectacle this afternoon. The highlight of the event is a riveting seven-furlong (1,400m) showdown between two internationally acclaimed contenders, Supernatural Power and Funcaandun, making the outcome highly unpredictable.
Historical context adds intrigue to this anticipated duel. The rivals last met in the 2025 Mouttet Mile, a one-mile (1,600m) contest where neither emerged victorious. On that occasion, Funcaandun secured a third-place finish, trailing the winner by 9¼ lengths, while Supernatural Power followed closely in fourth, just a half-length behind his rival. The shortened distance of today’s race is expected to dramatically alter the dynamic, potentially favoring different strengths.
Supernatural Power, conditioned by the prolific champion trainer Philip Feany, enters the race with a formidable reputation for explosive speed. This asset could prove decisive in the final stretch, enabling him to overtake his primary competitor at the critical moment.
However, Funcaandun presents a formidable challenge, bringing superior experience and a proven track record to the starting gate. With an impressive tally of 10 victories from 18 career starts, he surpasses Supernatural Power’s record of six wins from 10 outings. Funcaandun’s renowned resilience and powerful closing speed establish him as a legitimate threat capable of neutralizing his rival’s early pace advantages.
While the field includes other participants, racing analysts suggest none possess the comparable caliber of these two standout performers, making it highly improbable for any outsider to intervene in what is anticipated to be a direct battle for supremacy.
The Open Allowance race, designated for three-year-olds and upward, holds the eighth position on today’s extensive 10-race program, with an expected post time of 4:20 p.m. The day’s events commence at 11:45 a.m.
— Ruddy Allen
**Ones to Watch (Selections)**
• Race 1: Prince Zayden / God of Thunder / Greyt Magnum
• Race 2: Global Machine / Successful Man / Rock-Ola
• Race 3: The Techa / Olivia D’Oro / Any Means
• Race 4: Swashbuckler / Awesome Star / Maybelle
• Race 5: Indestructible / Kem / Titan Tempo
• Race 6: Donalmighty / Esuse Me Goodbye / JJ Warrior
• Race 7: Roman Princess / Native Alliance / Boasey Girl
• Race 8: **Supernatural Power / Funcaandun / Zulu Warrior**
• Race 9: D Head Cornerstone / Whisky / Press Conference
• Race 10: Dark Swan / Native Flyer / Treasure Isles