Gary Subratie’s classy chestnut mare Atomica secured consecutive Horse of the Year awards, the announcement of which was made at Caymanas Park on Tuesday.
Her remarkable performance throughout the year positioned her as the frontrunner for the title, determined by a 15-member committee.
Atomica amassed $6.3 million in earnings last year, triumphing in five races out of seven starts. Among her victories were the Labour Day Trophy over seven furlongs, the Clovis Metcalfe Trophy over seven-and-a-half furlongs, the Legal Light Trophy over nine furlongs and 25 yards, the Menudo over 10 furlongs, and the Jamaica Cup over nine-and-a-half furlongs.
Donning the black and yellow silks for Oakridge Farm led by Don Wehby, Atomica also clinched titles as the champion four-year-old and up, champion stayer overall, and champion local bred overall. She was bred by Karl Samuda and groomed by Errol Thomas, Sean P. Wright, and Lindel Bennett.
Rough Entry, the victor of the Mouttet Mile, secured the first runner-up position to Horse of the Year. Jamaica Derby winner Ability was named second runner-up.
Rough Entry also garnered accolades as the champion middle-distance performer overall and champion foreign bred.
Ability, who was second in the Mouttet Mile, also claimed the title of champion three-year-old.
Intrestntimesahead, a bay colt, clinched the title of champion two-year-old overall for owner Elizabeth DaCosta, after winning the Jamaica 2-Y-O Stakes.
He’s My Destiny was crowned champion sprinter overall for owners Everton Rose and Akim Mahadeow.
Ryan Williams was recognized as the most improved trainer, while Raddesh Roman secured the title of most improved jockey.
CHAMPIONS OF 2023
Owner: Carlton Watson Trainer: Jason DaCosta Jockey: Reyan Lewis Apprentice: Matthew Bennett Groom: Steven Smith Breeder: HAM Stables LimitedSire: Sout Warrior Broodmare: Blufield
