Nostradassa dominates Super Feeds Barbados Guineas

Trainer Richard Deane was all smiles after securing back-to-back victories in the Super Feeds Barbados Guineas Bowl, as his three-year-old filly Nostradassa led from start to finish to capture the 1570-metre contest — her first win at the distance.

Deane, who claimed last year’s Guineas title with Mercedes, now sets his sights on the Barbados Triple Crown for locally bred three-year-olds. With the Guineas as the opening leg, Nostradassa will next contest the Barbados Midsummer Creole Classic on June 28th, followed by the final leg, the Barbados Derby, on July 26th. A $100,000 bonus awaits any horse that sweeps all three races, along with the first-place prize money.

Going off at odds of 7-1, Nostradassa quickly seized control from the 1570-metre chute, opening an eight-length lead ahead of Invictus in second, Zoriah third, and Jason The Argonaut fourth as they passed the Grandstand for the first time.

Jockey Jarelle Beckles, riding confidently, guided Nostradassa over the hill, and by the two-furlong marker, she had stretched her advantage to 10 lengths. She maintained her dominance down the stretch, ultimately crossing the line six lengths ahead of her stablemate Josiah, the 3-5 betting favourite. Raconteur finished third, with Invictus in fourth. The winning time was 1:35.

The victory marked the first Classic win for delighted owner Mr Arjay and jockey Jarelle Beckles.

However, the day was also tinged with sadness as promising three-year-old Jason The Argonaut, from Sir David Seale’s stable, suffered a broken leg during the race.

Winning groom Shamar Griffith celebrated his third Guineas triumph, having previously won with Nekitta in 2013 and Déjà Vu in 2020. Nostradassa also followed in the footsteps of her sire, Aston Martin, who captured the 2012 Guineas.

Breeders Darren and David Matthews also celebrated a milestone, having bred their first Classic winner.

Racing action continues on May 10th, marking the start of the second season for 2025. (Kent Layne)