CLICO Art Calendar race promises thriller

But the CLICO Art Calendar Trophy over 1900 metres scheduled to be contested on the turf course promises a thrilling finish.

First, with the rain about it is safe to assume the race will be run off on the main track over 1750 metres.

In a field of 13 runners, chasing the CLICO $25,000 purse, half of them hold very good chances of reaching the line first.

Lit d’Amour ran a good race after a long lay-off to finish third last time out and has been galloping well in preparation for this race.

Another to tickle the fancy of turfites will be Gray Warrior who never seems to run a bad race. Mucho Tempo has been showing good form at the gallops, so too Cuatro Tempo and must be respected, especially the latter with only 48 kilos in his saddle bag.

But the one to fear most must be Stravinskys Secret out of the cagey Maniram “Boboy” Maharaj barn.

This Canadian-bred three-year-old has been showing consistent form this season, in the frame seven times in nine starts including one victory.

On the 50.5 kilos mark with the clever young rider Joshua Stephen astride, he is sure to figure in the finish.

Also holding the engagement are Prince Charming, Naturelly Classy and Le Fabuleux Dansur who with apprentice Nicholas Patrick astride will get a three kilo reprieve from his 57.5 kilos impost.

The vote, however, goes to Lit d’Amour who must strip fitter this time, and he is to be beten then play along with Stravinskys Secret.

Another event which must grab the attention of turfites is the CLICO Independence Fireworks Trophy, which will see the first crop of two-year-old “babes” making their debute over 900 metres.

Of course turfites will have their eyes glued on the youngsters, looking for a future champion from among them.

Most forward of the lot are the John O’Brien-trained duo Great Memories and Miss Republic, along with the Derick Mosca pair Indrani and Luca’s Gold, while Gerard Ferreira’s filly Madonna De Luna has galloped well.

The winner should come from this quintet, with a leaning to Luca’s Gold and Miss Republic.