Caribbean Choice new sponsor for Oaks

The 77th running of the Jamaica Oaks at Caymanas Park on Saturday will have a new sponsor in Caribbean Choice.

Plans for the mile and quarter classic for native-bred three-year-old fillies were outlined by representatives of Caymanas Track Limited (CTL) and Caribbean Choice a major brand with Grace Foods franchise at yesterday's launch on the front lawns of Caymanas Park.

Denzil Miller Jr, CTL's racing secretary, said the race will offer a total purse of $3 million, inclusive of $1 million donated by the sponsor.

The race will as usual be run in honour of Hilma Veira, former general manager of the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) and 'Hall of Fame' inductee.

"After the season's first classic on April 9, the Post to Post 1000 Guineas, it is back to the drawing board for some and high hopes for others," said Miller.

"The outstanding filly and Triple Crown contender NUCLEAR AFFAIR, who romped the 1000 Guineas for trainer Gary Subratie and owner Michros, continues to train well after her fast time win of 1:39.2 for a mile and although Subratie has never won the Oaks, he certainly has the horse to accomplish the feat this time around," said Miller.

DELIGHTFUL OPPORTUNITY

He also named the Guineas runner-up A THOUSAND STARS from the stables of 15-time champion Wayne DaCosta, Philip Feanny's SORRENTINO'S STAR, GOLDEN GLORY from the Subratie stable and Fitzroy Glispie's BIRD CATCHER as contenders.

David Reid, brand manager of Caribbean Choice, said the sponsorship was "a delightful opportunity to venture into your world of horse racing and we are excited to participate in the coming out party".

Reid was quick to add that the Ladies Day programme will feature a hat parade a staple on Oaks Day over the years as well as a number of giveaways to patrons, while Spragga Benz will provide the musical entertainment for racing fans.