Atomica faces uphill task in feature race
ATOMICA, the leading native-bred three-year-old this season, steps out of her age group for the first time in eight starts for what is expected to be her most difficult task to date in the $1.29million I’msatisfied feature race at Caymanas Park this afternoon.
Trained by Gary Subratie, Atomica, who won the 1000 Guineas and Jamaica Derby Classic races, faces a field of 11 seasoned older runners over six furlongs (1,200m) in what is surely a prep race for the filly’s participation in the money-spinning races to come later in the year.
The three-year-old chestnut filly should not find this trip too sharp and, given her running style, could lead these home. But If Atomica is to win this one she has to get a trouble-free passage. This is the only concern for the connections of this filly as she is known to be somewhat of a slow starter. With speedsters the likes of Go Deh Girl, She’s My Destiny, and Lure of Lucy present, Atomica has to be alert at the start. While this is an obvious consideration, Atomica is packed with power, and given her class she should romp this trophy event.
Atomica’s main rivals are stablemate Duke and Jason Dacosta’s pair of She’s My Destiny and Lure of Lucy.
The three-year-old and upward Open Allowance contest is positioned as the ninth event on the 10-race programme with a post time of 4:15 pm. First race is at 11:30 am.
Duke, the stable companion of Atomica, carries the weight of 57.0kgs (126 lb) but is most effective at six furlongs. Despite allowing weight all-round, Duke can sit off the pace, which is expected, before coming on strong in the straight.
She’s My Destiny is certain to be among the pacesetters but it is left to be seen if she will maintain that speed when the final furlong is at hand.
However, She’s My Destiny has shown strength in her recent efforts and considering that, the chestnut filly is going to make a telling bid.
Lure of Lucy is a talented runner who showed class when finishing third in the None Such Sprint behind I Am Fred and Mahogany on September 10. Lure of Lucy faces another talented runner in Atomica but once coming away in good order she is going to a dangerous contender, plus she is a fighter, which will aid her cause of winning.