Jetsam Awards at Santa Rosa Park

And officials have decided to bring the Jetsam Awards to Santa Rosa Park, Arima, when they crown the champions of 2005 in the full glare of turfites when prizes won will be handed out during the day’s racing on January 6 next year. One thing is certain, the champion West Indian-bred two-year-old colt/gelding, All For Java which is without question. But for the top filly in this category, the jury is still out.

Another which is already decided is the champion West Indian-bred sprinter, a prize which will unquestionably go to Man Of Class and the top stayer title should go to Top Of The Class one more time. There is, however, a fierce battle between apprentice Joshua Stephen and Venezuelan rider Wilmer Galviz for the jockeys title.

Only one victory separates this pair, with Galviz holding the lead with 45 winning rides, and Stephen (J) 44. In young Stephen’s case it will be a historic achievement, as he will become the first ever apprentice rider to win both titles. What an achievement it will be for the 19-year-old youngster who has the apprentice title long since sewn up. And turfites are forewarned to back horses ridden by these two as they slog it out for the title on the final day of local racing on Boxing Day.

John O’Brien, "The Captain," looks assured of holding on to the trainers crown having 44 winners to nearest rival Glenn Mendez’s 36.

All the other titles are up in the air, with either one or the other contender capable of getting the nod.