Horse racing at Caymanas Park last Sunday. - file

Last year's winner AHWHOFAH heads a star-studded field of 11 horses declared at the overnight stage for the 38th running of the CTL Gold Cup over 1400 metres at Caymanas Park on Saturday. AHWHOFAH, the current champion sprinter and a leading contender for the Horse-of-the-Year award, shoulders top weight of 60.5kg with a new jockey, Shane Ellis, riding for champion trainer Wayne DaCosta and owner Winston Kong.

By virtue of her performances this season which saw her winning five grade-one races, AHWHOFAH is set to allow each of her opponents lumps of weight. Indeed, the nearest horse to her in the weights is the 2007 Guineas and St Leger winner RUM TALK (Brian Harding up) with 52.0kg.

terrific last furlong

Last year, AHWHOFAH produced a terrific last furlong run to catch and beat ENGLISH STORM by a head with customary rider Omar Walker, the champion jockey, aboard.

However, with Walker sidelined with a broken collarbone sustained in a spill some weeks ago, the ride goes to Ellis, who has been enjoying good form in recent months.

Other proven campaigners such as the outgoing Horse of the Year ALSAFRA, this year's 1000 Guineas and Oaks winner SAINT CECELIA (working exceptionally well), LADY HASTINGS who recently won the Imported Mile on 'Super-day' and the talented American filly HONEYOFALADY all carry light imposts and should ensure keen competition.

Although AHWHOFAH has proven herself to be a class act, having won twice with 60.5kg this season, she will have to be at her very best if she intends to repeat. Already, her owner is unhappy with the handicapping of the race, but AHWHOFAH is no stranger to big weights and will only go down fighting.