Derek Chin, chairman of the T&T Racing Authority (TTRA) was a very happy man on Saturday, after his four-year-old old gelding, Boogie Blues scored an upset victory in the feature Grade Two-Fancy Indian ARC Cup over 1,800 metres. After some disappointing runs and not shredding his maiden tags, the Dachin Racing Stables owned, Boogie Blues got off the mark in impressive fashion when winning the $90,000 first prize cheque from champion stayer, Cactus Amour and the 2010 Gold Cup runner-up, Montejo. In the process, Boogie Blues became the first maiden to win the graded event, after surviving an objection.
Celebrations were all around, as trainer Christopher Prime, who returned from a suspension some months ago, was back in the winner's circle in a race which he won with Storm Street some years ago.
Somewhat disappointing in his past four starts, Boogie Blues was sent off at odds of 8/1 with Prayven Badrie astride and won easier than the margin suggest. The son of Indian Charlie/Boogie Piano can be a live threat to the top class horses, in the major staying events, for the remainder of the season. The time registered by Boogie Blue was a good 1:51.65. However, don't discard Cactus Amour, as he was ridden with a bit more restraint than in the Gold Cup and must have needed the run. From the looks of it, the SIR owned equine star will be the horse to beat in the staying events for the season.
Champion trainer, John O'Brien is continuing his great form of 2010 and his filly, B's Passion had to work hard to catch and beat the speedy Chloe's Gold in the Grade Three-Burrokeet Royal Colours Classic over 1,300 metres. The Ladies Syndicate owned, three-year-old filly was driven for all she was worth by champion jockey Brian Harding to get up close home. She had half a length to spare Chloe's Gold, which attempted to make all the running. The pair were clear of Alexander, which finished ahead of Touch D Road. Clearly, this win makes B's Passion one of the favourites for the upcoming Easter Guineas. Certainly, she is going the right way, as she has improved and has avenged her defeat at the hands of Chloe's Gold, when they made their debut last December last. B's Passion recorded a good time of 1:18.00.