Caymanas Park, Jamaica —
Redemption is the word echoing from the stables of Anthony Nunes as his prized colt Crown Chaser readies for battle in today’s $1.25 million Will In Charge Trophy, the marquee event closing the card at Caymanas Park.
After a misfire in the Jamaica Cup, where he labored to eighth, Crown Chaser returns to more favorable territory — both in class and distance. The one-mile Overnight Allowance contest, scheduled as the ninth and final race with a 5:05 p.m. post, offers the Derby winner a fresh canvas to reassert his dominance.
Backed by sharp works in the morning hours, Crown Chaser has been clocking times that signal readiness: 1:09.4 over five and a half furlongs and 1:03.0 for the five, both under a hand ride and showing fluid stride alongside the equally promising Captain Sparrow.
Crucial to the colt’s rebound is the seasoned hand of Dane Nelson, whose poise and aggression in the saddle may be the deciding factor in a race brimming with tension.
But victory is no foregone conclusion.
The Threats Circle
Mark My Identity, the season’s most improved three-year-old, comes into this with momentum — three straight wins, all earned with grit and tactical discipline. He’s unproven at this class but not outclassed. A clean break and a stalking trip could see him pull off another upset.
Then there’s Intrestntimesahead, last year’s St Leger victor, whose 2024 campaign has been patchy at best. Still, when class drops and the distance shortens, horses with his pedigree tend to awaken. He remains a sleeper in this field — quiet, but dangerous.
Rainsville, Brenda Boy, and Provident round out a field that won’t be yielding position easily. All three bring consistency and tactical flexibility — enough to keep the front-runners honest.
Undercard Highlights: Ones to Watch
Race 1 – The Real Identity, I Realise, Brinks
Expect a strong early pace; The Real Identity has been hinting at a breakout.
Race 2 – Rock-Ola, Chesney, Successful Man
If Chesney gets a clean trip, he could run them all down in the final furlong.
Race 3 – You’re My Sweetie, Life is Light, Fortunate Blessing
Sprinters clash; watch for Fortunate Blessing if the pace collapses late.
Race 4 – Wicked Cassie, Unruly Don, Oro Oro
Unruly Don’s gate speed gives him an edge if he breaks clean.
Race 5 – Undisclosedlocation, Restoration, Heiroffire
Restoration may be the value play — hitting form at the right time.
Race 6 – Miss Hylton, Sine For Me, Stein
This one could go to the wire. Miss Hylton is tough to pass when she’s ahead.
Race 7 – Taylor Made, Giving Thanks, My Friend Micki
Giving Thanks has the engine but can she stay the trip? That’s the question.
Race 8 – Brahma Bull, Slam Sharp, Cut Out
Brahma Bull is the class, but Cut Out could surprise if there’s a duel up front.
Conclusion
All eyes will be on Crown Chaser, not just to see if he wins — but how. A bounce-back performance could put him back on the elite track heading into 2025. But if he stumbles again, the crown may be up for grabs.
