First three-timer for Robles

VETERAN Panamanian jockey Ameth Robles, who has made Jamaica his home for more than two decades, rode his first three-timer at Caymanas Park yesterday, closing his act with a powerful finish aboard SUBBIE in the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association Trophy feature race.

Surprisingly sent off at odds of 3-1 in the eight-horse field after placing sixth in last month's Jamaica St Leger, Gary Subratie-trained SUBBIE turned for home next-to-last in the 1400-metre feature race and exploded over the last half-furlong to nail TEN CARATS, stealing home with Wesley Henry.

The filly TEN CARATS tried to make all in the non-winners-of-two race for three-year-olds. She was well on her way, setting fast splits down the backstretch and into the lane, shaking loose of 4-5 favourite NIGHT LIGHT.

TOP STRIDE

However, SUBBIE, who was tailed off down the backstretch, hit top stride after turning for home. The bay colt motored into contention and took aim at TEN CARATS, who was just about getting rid of NIGHT LIGHT a half-furlong out.

Ridden out by Robles, SUBBIE swept past TEN CARATS close home to win going away by two lengths.

Robles had earlier opened the 11-race card aboard NUCLEAR COMMANDER for Subratie, making him the day's leading trainer with two winners. The Panamanian followed up in the next race with debutante GO GO GIRL, making all at 800 metres straight with the United States-bred two-year-old filly for trainer Gordon Lewis.

Racing continues at Caymanas Park tomorrow, Independence Day.