BIRD CATCHER, who figured prominently in both the1000 Guineas and the Oaks, looks the one to beat in today's Caymanas Park restricted allowance feature over 1100 metres for the Titania Trophy, for native bred three-year-old fillies.
The 14-strong field promises keen competition from leading lights BIRD CATCHER, POISON GAS, BLUE MOON, LIKE ALADY and BABY P. But the Fitzroy Glispie-trained BIRD CATCHER has the best credentials on past performances, especially having worked well in preparation for this trophy.
BIRD CATCHER finished three lengths fifth to A THOUSAND STARS in the recent Caribbean Choice Oaks, this after disputing the lead at the half mile. And prior to that she finished fourth to NUCLEAR AFFAIR in the Post To Post 1000 Guineas, racing prominently into the straight as well.
It is interesting to recall that BIRD CATCHER won her only race over this trip in December of last year, slamming GLOBAL by five lengths in the fairly good time of 1:07.0.
The chestnut filly by Burning Marque out of Bye Bye Birdie has moved impressively at exercise in preparation for this race, galloping six furlongs in a fast 1:13.1 on May 13.
Having secured a good draw on the outside, BIRD CATCHER, with only 52.5kg and former champion apprentice O'Brien White aboard, should race in close touch of the expected leaders - POISON GAS and MISS MYRTLE - before coming through approaching the distance. She should win from the Wayne DaCosta-trained BLUE MOON and POISON GAS.
Other firm fancies on the card are last Saturday's fast-timer winner, FLYING MIRACLE, in the third; DI COBRE to go one better in the fifth race over the straight; as well as LUCKY NINE in the sixth; and down in class ZACKONTHEATTACK to score an overdue win in the ninth race.