Legacy Isle unstoppable in Temperance Oaks Trophy

Legacy Isle (USA) turned Saturday’s feature into his own personal showcase as the six-year-old bay horse delivered another devastating burst of speed to capture the $1.75-million Temperance Oaks Trophy at Caymanas Park, leaving his rivals chasing shadows over six and a half furlongs (1,300m). Sent off as the 2-5 favourite in the Graded Stakes/Open Allowance for three-year-olds and upward, the Rohan Crichton trainee powered home by one and a half lengths without ever being asked for his best. Funcaandun, with Shaheem Gordon aboard, ran on for second, while Nautical Star, ridden by Tajay Suckoo, held on for third. The clock stopped at 1:17.00 minutes. (23.1 x 45.3 x 1:10.1). The start wasn’t perfect as Legacy Isle was a touch slow into stride and found himself tucked in behind the early leaders. However, he was coupled up nicely by jockey Raddesh Roman and went down into third behind Of A Revolution (Nicardo Carr) and Nautical Star, as the field raced past the five-furlong (1,000m) pole. Roman then asked his mount to go approaching the half-mile (800m) and the response was instant as Legacy Isle swept around the field, took command in a matter of strides, and from there it was a procession. The six-year-old son of Shackleford out of Queenamiena cruised through the stretch, ears pricked, galloping strongly to the line, registering his third win from four starts this season. Legacy Isle was one of three winners on the 10-race card for Roman. Roman’s other winners were Unruly Don in the opening race for owner/trainer Oral Hayden and Walk The Plank for trainer Anthony Nunes, who dead-heated with Giving Thanks in the 10th and final event. The action continues today with a nine-race programme. – Ruddy Allen