Mark My Word bypasses T&T trip

The reigning Horse of the Year MARK MY WORD, who was scheduled to leave for Trinidad and Tobago yesterday for the Caribbean Nations Challenge raceday, will not be making the trip. The Caribbean Nations raceday is set for Saturday, December 3 at Santa Rosa racetrack.

One of four horses from Richard Azan's stable originally earmarked for the trip, the recent Superstakes winner was withdrawn over what Azan termed "last-minute complications and concerns by the veterinary division".

"They advised that none of my horses should make the trip, even though we were looking forward to a possible clash with Bruceontheloose in the nine-furlong race," said Azan.

The trainer further disclosed that his other horses slated to make the trip - notably, EDISON and Lotto Classic winner ERASMO - were withdrawn after being quarantined for a short while at Caymanas Park.

By virtue of his November 12 repeat win in the CTL Superstakes, MARK MY WORD has positioned himself for a second consecutive Horse of the Year award.

As many as 12 Jamaican horses accepted invitations to the big meet in the twin-island republic organised by T&T's racing czar, Chis Armond, but only six flew out yesterday.

Up to a fortnight ago, trainer Gary Subratie said the plan was to send six of his horses to the meet, including three two-year-olds. But only two of the youngsters made the trip, as the American filly DANCE SO SWEET, 1000 Guineas winner NIPHAL and the talented American 2-y-o filly NOON IT IS all stayed home.

Among the six horses leaving yesterday were three from the stables of Norman Palmer - ESQUIRE, OASIS and ODIN. According to owners' representative Dr Paul Wright, who will leave for Trinidad next Friday, all three are ready to rumble. Palmer will depart early next week.

Also on the flight were the Alroy Watson-trained 3-y-o filly MARTHA and the two youngsters from Subratie's stables.