Ares gallops to his first stakes win

By Kent Layne

Margo Atkinson’s three-year-old colt Ares captured his first stakes win in The Barbados Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (BTBA) Stakes and Trophy Grade two on Saturday night at the Garrison Savannah.

Coming off his first career win in his last start, the local bred Ares named after the Greek God of War, was settled into fourth place earning the $28,500, 1800-meter feature event behind early pace setter Magic Millions.

Magic Millions set fractions of 26.6 and 53 and was followed by Afternoon Delight having her first start since the Derby and fourth placed The Code from the Jean Marc Cozier barn.

Turning for home Magic Millions had weakened and Ares picked up the running with Pussy Kat from the Gay Smith stable circling on the outside, as it looked like another Smith horse would defeat Ares again similar to what their Triple Crown hero did in the Derby.

But Ares got home by a length from Magic Millions with Afternoon Delight third and Pussy Kat in fourth position.

Victorious St Lucian jockey Eric Daniel was smiling a mile wide after winning the biggest race of his career. The winning time was 1:555.00.

Triumphant trainer Kenny John continues to do well and won most of the feature races for the year.

Races continue on Boxing Day.