Mark My Word (Omar Walker) winning the Viceroy Trophy over 1800 metres on June 25.

Horse-of-the-Year MARK MY WORD who was scheduled to leave for Trinidad yesterday for the Caribbean Nations Challenge raceday on Saturday, December 3, at Santa Rosa racetrack, did not make the trip.

One of four horses from the Richard Azan stable originally earmarked for the trip, the recent Superstakes winner was withdrawn over what Azan termed 'last minute complications and concerns by the veterinary division '.

"They advised that none of my horses make the trip, even though we were looking forward to a possible clash with Bruceon-theloose in the nine-furlong race", said Azan.

The trainer further disclosed that his other horses slated to make the trip, notably EDISON and Lotto Classic (Governor's Cup) winner ERASMO - were withdrawn after being quarantined for a short while at Caymanas Park.

By virtue of his November 12 repeat win in the CTL Super-stakes, MARK MY WORD has positioned himself for a second consecutive 'Horse of the Year' award.

As many as 12 Jamaican horses accepted invitations to the big meet in the twin island republic, organised by T&T's racing czar, Chis Armond. But only six left the island on Thursday.

Up to a fortnight ago, trainer Gary Subratie said the plan was to send six of his horses to the meet, including three two-year-olds. But only two of the youngsters made the trip, as the American filly DANCE SO SWEET, 1000 Guineas winner NIPHAL and the talented American 2-y-o filly NOON IT IS all defected.

Among the six horses leaving yesterday morning were three from the stables of Norman Palmer — ESQUIRE, OASIS and ODIN. According to owners' representative Dr Paul Wright, who will leave for Trinidad next Friday, all three are ready to rumble. Palmer will depart early next week.

Also leaving yesterday were the Alroy Watson-trained 3-y-o filly MARTHA and the two youngsters from the Subratie stables.