Filly Joqular wins first Grade 1 race

Darwin Clarke’s four-year-old USA-bred filly Joqular proved she is the best horse in Barbados when she dismissed her five other rivals in convincing fashion in the Robert J Bourque Boxing Day Stakes and Trophy Grade 1 on Monday in front a massive crowd at the Garrison Savannah.

Trained by Charles Williams, Joqular was turned out in immaculate condition. She broke sharply from the 1570 meters chute to the lead from Sir Jimmy in second and Brilliant News in third. Sired by 2007 Kentucky Derby runner-up Hard Spun, Joqular controlled the pace as the first quarter went in 24.4 seconds and the half in 48.4 seconds.

Sir Jimmy dropped back at the rail leaving the two-furlong pole as Brilliant News loomed on the outside looking to give his owner Sir David Seale a second win in the race for a second year. Night Prowler had won it in 2020 but Sir David had no runner in the race last year. Joqular galloped off as Brilliant News came with a late surge. Teshawn Hazelwood brought over Joqular from the rails so she could see her rival; this was a top-class jockey’s tactic. Joqular got home by a length and three-quarters from Brilliant News, Inspired Adventure came from last to place third and Alleria finished fourth.

Hazelwood crowned off a great 2022 winning the champion jockey and also the leading apprentice award for 2022 along with winning his first Grade 1.

The winning time was 135.4. Winning trainer Williams was very happy capturing his first Grade 1 plus 3 race in a row with Joqular, as he has only been training since September this year.

The next race day will be January 2.