Roger Teal’s Dancing Gemini could start his campaign in either the French or the English 2000 Guineas.
The Camelot colt was twice a winner as a juvenile, taking a Newbury maiden and then the Listed Flying Scotsman at Doncaster.
He then stepped up to Group One level to contest the Kameko Futurity Trophy back at Doncaster, a mile event run on heavy ground in October.
There he finished fifth as Charlie’s Appleby’s Ancient Wisdom took first place, a run Teal has taken the positives from as Dancing Gemini gained experience ahead of his three-year-old campaign.
“Conditions were soft when we won the Listed race but it wasn’t as bad as when we ran him in the Group One,” he said.
“We perhaps committed him too soon and then there was the horse that got upset in the stalls, so there was a delay as they’d all been loaded.
“He probably used up a bit of nervous energy, but he didn’t run bad at all in those conditions.”
Teal is pleased with how the colt has developed over the winter and is taking aim at either the French or English Guineas as his opening run of the season.
“He’s taken his work very well, he looks like he’s come forward so we’re really happy,” he said.
“He’s in both Guineas, French and English, so that’s what we’re aiming at. We’ll see a bit closer to the time which one we’re going to go for.
“He’s by a Derby winner and out of an Australia mare, so he’s bred to get the trip. Fingers crossed he goes well in the Guineas so we can start to dream big.
“He was a bit of a frame last year but he was always growing, he was a bit bum high but he seems to have levelled off now.
“He’s done very well, we’re very happy with him. He’s not a massive horse but he is a nice stamp, a nice athletic animal.
“He’s a Camelot and he tends to stamp them as good-looking horses.”
Jamaica’s Mixed 4x400m relay team that was disqualified after finishing third on Sunday night has been reinstated, Sportsmax.TV can confirm.
Jamaica’s team of Princewell Martin, Rickeisha Simms, Paul Henry and Britannia Bailey had initially won the bronze medal in the relay that was won in dominant fashion by Guyana. However, the team was disqualified after a Jamaican runner was accused of impeding a runner from another team.
The Jamaican team managers filed a protest and the decision went under review and the decision was eventually overturned and the team re-instated. Jamaica has officially been awarded the bronze medal after finishing in a time of 3:30.42.
Grenada won the silver medal after fining second in 3:29.19.
Constitution Hill is back at Nicky Henderson’s yard after a colic scare, with any thoughts of a trip to the Punchestown Festival now firmly ruled out.
The Seven Barrows handler announced on Sunday that his superstar hurdler had been taken to a veterinary hospital due a suspected colic on Wednesday night, describing it as a “few traumatic days” with the unbeaten gelding.
Henderson issued an upbeat bulletin on Monday with Constitution Hill returning to the Lambourn yard to continue his recovery, although the 2023 Champion Hurdle hero is in need of an extended period of rest.
That means a potential clash with last month’s Cheltenham victor State Man is now off the agenda until next term.
In a statement posted on X, Henderson said: “Constitution Hill returned to Seven Barrows this morning and it is wonderful to have him home after what he has endured.
“He resumed normal feed yesterday with no further ill effects and had a nice pick of grass in the welcome sunshine.
“Hopefully this is all behind him now but I am afraid it is easy to see he had a difficult week and the reality is he is going to take some time to recover and put some weight back on again.
“Therefore our much anticipated match with State Man will have to wait until next season.”
Constitution Hill has run just once this season after cold weather scuppered his initial planned return in the Fighting Fifth at Newcastle, with deep ground seeing him bypass the rescheduled event at Sandown.
He won the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day in a canter, but an unsatisfactory scope saw him miss an intended Trials day run at Cheltenham before a respiratory infection ended his hopes of a Champion Hurdle defence last month.
The Fighting Fifth is pencilled in as a starting point for next season, though Henderson’s main priority remains Constitution Hill’s health.
He added: “As long as he is OK that is all that matters, but it has been a horrible few months since his great performance in the Christmas Hurdle. It is time for him to have a summer holiday now look forward to his return, hopefully in the Fighting Fifth.”
Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf champion Unquestionable will attempt to become a Classic hero at ParisLongchamp after being set a French 2000 Guineas objective.
Trained by Aidan O’Brien, the son of Wootton Bassett was getting on the scoresheet for the first time at the highest level as he carried the Al Shaqab colours to a maiden Breeders’ Cup victory at Santa Anita in November.
A consistent performer throughout his juvenile season, prior to his success in America he chased home Richard Hannon’s Rosallion in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere and it is therefore no surprise connections have their eye on a return to the French capital.
His Ballydoyle handler is still toying with the idea of an early-season tune-up run, but the one race all connections have circled on their calendar is the Poule d’Essai des Poulains on May 12, when O’Brien will seek his sixth victory in the colts’ Classic.
“Unquestionable is fine and Aidan is going to decide if he goes for a trial, but the plan is for him to go to the French Guineas,” said Alison Begley, UK racing consultant for Al Shaqab, who co-own the three-year-old in partnership with Coolmore and Westerberg.
“He ran really well there at Longchamp in the Lagardere and that will be the plan for him. At the moment Aidan is just deciding over a trial, but the first aim this season is the French Guineas.”
One-time Classic contender Passenger could make his return to action in France next month after being entered for the Prix Ganay at ParisLongchamp.
An impressive winner of the Wood Ditton on his racecourse debut at Newmarket last spring, the Sir Michael Stoute-trained colt subsequently finished a luckless third when favourite for the Dante at York, earning himself a place in the Derby.
Passenger was disappointing in Epsom’s premier Classic, but rounded off his three-year-old campaign with a narrow verdict in the Group Three Winter Hill Stakes at Windsor – beating subsequent Caulfield Cup runner-up West Wind Blows – and the son of Ulysses appears to be closing in on a comeback.
“Passenger’s in good form, we’re just coming out of the winter and Sir Michael has made an entry for him in the Ganay,” said Alan Cooper, racing manager for owners the Niarchos Family.
“There’s also the Gordon Richards Stakes (at Sandown), but we’ve got plenty of time to decide on the programme. We’re only at the end of March and like everyone we’d like a bit of warmth and a bit of dryness – it’s been so wet.
“His form is good, so let’s hope he progresses from his Group Three win and everyone can have some fun with him this year.”
Passenger is one of 19 initial entries for the Prix Ganay on April 28, with Charlie Appleby’s pair of Measured Time and Military Order, John and Thady Gosden’s Lord North and the William Haggas-trained Dubai Honour other potential British raiders.
Aidan O’Brien’s Luxembourg heads an Irish contingent that also includes Al Riffa and Maxux, both trained by his son Joseph, and Adrian Murray’s duo of Crypto Force and Elegant Man.
Monday’s fixture at Redcar has been called off due to a waterlogged track.
The venue was due to stage a seven-race card but significant rain overnight left clerk of the course Jonjo Sanderson with no option but to abandon.
He said: “The forecast changed yesterday afternoon and while we were expecting rain, it changed from a couple of millimetres to a significant amount overnight.
“We’ve had seven millimetres since 1am and it is still raining now with probably another 7mm forecast.
“It’s just been so wet all winter that it’s taken relatively little rain to push us over.”
Wednesday’s card at Nottingham, which was due to feature the Listed Further Flight Stakes, has also been called off.
Officials inspected the track at 8am on Monday but parts of the course remain unraceable following further overnight rain, with little prospect of sufficient improvement ahead of racing.
The excitement at the 2024 Carifta Games in Grenada reached a fever pitch as Guyana clinched a thrilling victory in the mixed 4x400m relay, sealing their triumph in the final event of the day. However, controversy loomed as Jamaica, initially finishing third, faced disqualification pending a review, prompting considerations of a protest from their management.
In a display of exceptional teamwork and determination, Guyana’s team, comprising Malachi Austin, Narissa McPherson, Dh Neilson Gill, and Tianna Springer, clocked an impressive time of 3:23.51, securing the gold medal and igniting celebrations among their supporters.
Following closely behind, Grenada, represented by Elisha Williams, Joshiem Sylvester, Cheffonia Houston, and Kemisha Dominique, delivered a commendable performance, finishing with a time of 3:29.19 to claim the silver medal.
Trinidad and Tobago, featuring Keone John, Kyah Hyson, Jaden Clement, and Kadija Pickering, rounded out the podium, clinching the bronze medal with a time of 3:31.24.
Earlier in the day, athletes showcased their talents in various events, adding to the spectacle of the Carifta Games. In the Girls Long Jump Under 17, J'kaiyah Rolle of Bahamas soared to victory with a jump of 5.77m, closely followed by Jamaica's Sashana Johnson and Belize's Brooklyn Lyttle, who leaped out to marks of 5.74m and 5.73, respectively.
In the Under 20 Boys Javelin Throw, Kaden Cartwright of Bahamas impressed with a winning throw of 67.34m, while Grenada's Rayvohn Telesford (67.34) and Dominica's Addison Alickson James (65.57m) secured second and third place, respectively.
Chrystophe Calliste of Grenada emerged victorious in the Boys Triple Jump Under 17 with a leap of 14.67m, beating out Jamaica's Amani Phillips ( 14.18m) and Bahamas' Davon Davis (14.16m) for the top spot.
The Girls Heptathlon saw an extraordinary tie for the gold medal between Jamaica's Kimeka Smith and Guadeloupe's Clémentine Carias, both amassing a total of 4699 points. Bahamas' Aaliyah Evans secured the bronze medal with a total score of 4181 points.
As the sun set on Day 2 of the Carifta Games, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation for the upcoming Day 3, promising more exhilarating performances and thrilling moments on the track and field.
Jamaica showcased their sprinting prowess at the Carifta Games in Grenada on Sunday night, securing victory in three out of four 4x100m relay events. Their bid for a clean sweep was foiled by Trinidad and Tobago in the Under 20 Boys 4x100m relay, adding excitement to an electrifying evening of track and field.
In the U17 Girls 4x100m relay, Team Jamaica surged to victory with a stellar performance. The quartet blazed across the finish line in 45.36 seconds, clinching the gold medal. Team Bahamas secured the silver with a time of 46.28 seconds, while Team Trinidad and Tobago took the bronze with a time of 47.49 seconds.
The U17 Boys 4x100m saw Jamaica dominate the competition. The team composed of Nyron Wade, Malike Nugent, Byron Walker, and Oshane Jervis stormed to victory in 41.30 seconds, claiming the gold medal. Trinidad and Tobago finished closely behind, securing the silver with a time of 41.53 seconds, while Bahamas grabbed the bronze in a time of 42.30.
Continuing their sprinting dominance, Jamaica triumphed in the Under 20 Girls 4x100m relay. The team of Habiba Harris, Theianna-Lee Terrelonge, Briana Campbell, and Shanoya Douglas delivered a sensational performance, clocking a time of 43.63 seconds to clinch the gold medal. Trinidad and Tobago settled for silver with a time of 44.43 seconds, while Bahamas secured the bronze in 45.40.
However, Jamaica's quest for a clean sweep was thwarted in the Under 20 Boys 4x100m relay by Trinidad and Tobago. Jamaica's team, hampered by poor exchanges fell short of the top spot, finishing with a time of 40.55 seconds, earning them the silver medal. Trinidad and Tobago claimed victory in 40.45 seconds, while Grenada "A" secured the bronze in 40.71.
Despite missing out on a sweep, Jamaica's dominant performance in three out of four 4x100m relay events underscored their sprinting prowess and left a lasting impression on the Carifta Games in Grenada.
The Carifta Games in Grenada witnessed remarkable performances on Sunday as Demetrie Myers and Kaydean Johnson successfully defended their 3000m titles, showcasing their dominance in distance running. Additionally, Chavez Pen delivered a standout performance in the Boys Under 20 High Jump event, setting a lifetime best to secure victory.
In the Boys 3000m run Under 17, Myers of Belize exhibited outstanding endurance and determination, crossing the finish line in 9:05.86 to claim the gold medal. Wyndel Beyde of Aruba finished strong to secure the silver medal with a time of 9:21.30, while Isaiah Alder of Trinidad and Tobago clinched the bronze with a time of 9:29.35.
Meanwhile, in the Girls 3000m Open, Johnson of Jamaica showcased her exceptional talent and strength, defending her title with a commanding performance. Johnson crossed the finish line in 10:04.44 to secure the gold medal, while her compatriot Ashara Frater claimed the silver with a time of 10:24.83. Attoya Harvey of Guyana impressed with a third-place finish, securing the bronze medal with a time of 10:36.59.
In the Boys High Jump Under 20 event, Chavez Pen of Jamaica soared to victory with a remarkable jump of 2.13m, setting a lifetime best. Timothy Greenidge of Grenada delivered a commendable performance to secure the silver medal with a jump of 2.05m, while Bernard Kemp of the Bahamas claimed the bronze with a jump of 1.95m.
Day two of the Carifta Games at the Kirani James Stadium in Grenada witnessed thrilling performances in the Boys U17 high jump and shot put events, with athletes showcasing their strength and skill on the field. The Bahamas emerged as a dominant force in the high jump competition, while Jamaica secured victory in the shot put event.
In the Boys High Jump Under 17, Bahamian athletes Joshua Williams and Claudius Burrows displayed exceptional talent as they soared over the bar with finesse. Williams claimed the gold medal with a superb jump of 2.00m. His compatriot, Claudius Burrows, secured the silver medal with a commendable jump of 1.95m, demonstrating the depth of talent in the Bahamas team. Tyrique Vincent of Trinidad and Tobago clinched the bronze medal with a jump of 1.90m.
Meanwhile, in the Boys Shot Put Under 17, Jamaican athlete Javontae Smith delivered a stunning performance, setting a new record with a massive throw of 18.80m. His remarkable feat earned him the gold medal. Jayden Walcott of Barbados secured the silver medal with a throw of 15.37m, while Jaylen Stuart of the Bahamas claimed the bronze with a throw of 15.28m rounding off the podium.
Jamaica asserted its dominance in the 400m hurdles at the Carifta Games at the Kirani James Stadium in Grenada on Sunday, clinching victory in three out of the four finals. Amidst the impressive performances, Michelle Smith from the US Virgin Islands stood out with her stellar run, setting the track ablaze with her speed and precision.
In the U17 Girls 400m hurdles, Nastassia Fletcher of Jamaica secured her second gold medal of the games with a time of 1:00.10. Despite strong competition from Darvinique Dean of the Bahamas, who finished in second place with a time of 1:00.66, and Jenna-Marie Thomas of Trinidad and Tobago, who claimed the bronze with a time of 1:01.03, Fletcher's determined effort propelled her to a commanding victory.
Meanwhile, in the U20 Girls 400m hurdles, Michelle Smith delivered a dominant performance, clocking an impressive time of 56.28 seconds. Her swift and commanding run left spectators in awe as she crossed the finish line ahead of her competitors. Kelly Ann Carr of Jamaica secured the silver medal with a time of 57.02 seconds, while Aaliyah Mullings, also from Jamaica, claimed the bronze with a time of 59.80 seconds.
In the Under 17 Boys 400m hurdles, Robert Miller of Jamaica made history with a remarkable performance, setting a new championship record with a time of 52.19 seconds. His electrifying run, saw him finish well ahead of Akanye Samuel-Francis of St. Kitts and Nevis, who finished in second place with a time of 52.88 seconds, and Fransico Williams of Jamaica, who secured the bronze with a time of 53.19 seconds.
While Jamaica's dominance was evident in three of the races, the Boys 400m Hurdles Under 20 saw a fierce battle between Jamaican athletes. Shamer Blake emerged victorious with a time of 51.21 seconds, closely followed by his compatriot Princewell Martin, who finished just behind with a time of 51.34 seconds. Dorian Charles of Trinidad and Tobago also delivered a commendable performance, securing the bronze medal with a time of 52.70 seconds.
In a thrilling conclusion to the Under 20 Boys Long Jump final at the 51st Carifta Games, held at the Kirani James Stadium in Grenada, Jamaica's Rickoy Hunter delivered a breathtaking performance to snatch the gold medal in the closing moments of the morning session on Day 2.
Throughout the competition, Hunter had remained in third place, trailing behind the leading mark set by Bernard Kemp of The Bahamas. However, as the event neared its conclusion, Hunter seized the opportunity to showcase his belief and determination. With his final attempt, he unleashed a remarkable leap, soaring out to a distance of 7.48m.
Hunter's last-minute heroics propelled him into the top spot, surpassing Kemp's leading mark of 7.40m.
Unfortunately for Kemp, who had held the lead for much of the competition, his hopes of victory were dashed as he fouled his final attempt, ending any chance of reclaiming the top position.
Amidst the dramatic showdown between Hunter and Kemp, Teon Haynes of Barbados also delivered an impressive performance, earning the bronze medal with a leap of 7.32m.
On the morning of Day 2 of the 51st Carifta Games in Grenada, the Bahamas and Jamaica asserted their dominance early, clinching gold medals in impressive displays of athleticism.
The Bahamas added to the two gold medals they won on Saturday as Taysha Stubbs, a 17-year-old rising star, secured the gold in the Under 20 Girls Javelin event. With a remarkable throw of 50.94m, Stubbs out-performed her competitors. Her compatriot, Vanessa Sawyer, clinched the silver with a commendable throw of 43.03m, adding to the Bahamas' medal haul. Grenada's Alliah Gittens rounded off the podium with a bronze medal, reaching a distance of 42.33m.
Meanwhile, Jamaica also celebrated success as Kimeka Smith triumphed in the Under 20 Girls Shot Put. Smith delivered a strong throw of 13.68m, securing the gold medal for her country. The Bahamas' Annae MacKey demonstrated her skill with a throw of 13.58m, earning the silver medal. Briana Smith from the Cayman Islands displayed her talent with a throw of 12.86 meters, claiming the bronze medal.
Cayman’s Davonte Howell and Jamaica’s Sabrina Dockery reigned supreme in the Under-20 100m finals on day one of the 51st Carifta Games at the Kirani James Stadium in Grenada on Saturday.
In the Under-20 Boys final, it was a quinella for the Cayman Islands as Howell successfully defended his title with a season’s best 10.15 ahead of his teammate Jaiden Reid who was second in 10.34.
Jamaica’s Javorne Dunkley ran the same time as Reid in third.
In the Under-20 Girls final, Dockery produced a stunning upset to defeat her teammate Thieanna-Lee Terrelonge and claim gold.
Dockery, who was well beaten by Terrelonge in the Class Two 100m final at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Championships, produced an excellent personal best 11.26 to take gold.
Terrelonge ran 11.32 for second while Antigua & Barbuda’s Geolyna Dowdye ran 11.64 for bronze.
Favorite Athaleyha Hinckson of Guyana produced 11.44 to win the Under-17 Girls final ahead of Jamaica’s Adora Campbell (11.52) and Barbados’ Aniya Nurse (11.76).
Jamaica’s Nyrone Wade proved to be the class of the field in the Under-17 Boys event.
Wade added to Class Two 100m title at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Championships with a personal best-equaling 10.43 to win gold ahead of Trinidad & Tobago’s Kadeem Chinapoo (10.59) and Jamaica’s Malike Nugent (10.74).
Day two of the Carifta Games can be seen live on SportsMax and the SportsMax app on Sunday.
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