Mahogany logs Easter Sprint Cup

MAHOGANY USED his class to turn back United States-bred UNBELIEVABLE FORCE in yesterday’s Easter Sprint Cup at five and a half furlongs, logging his 19th win from 34 starts as the 3-5 favourite.

Breaking smartly from post-position three, the 2022 Gold Cup winner dictated the pace from along the rail, repelling challenges before UNBELIEVABLE FORCE circled rivals for a sustained bid entering the lane.

Hunting a second straight win after clocking 58.3 out the straight mid-December, UNBELIEVABLE FORCE tried to pull level with MAHOGANY coming off the turn. However, eight-year-old MAHOGANY, worn down by NEO STAR at seven and a half furlongs a month ago with topweight 126lb, quickened along the rail under claiming rider Tajay Suckoo to repel UNBELIEVABLE FORCE.

MAHOGANY clocked 1:06.1 for the trip after ripping splits of 23.3, 47.2 and 59.3, carrying 116lb, relieved after lugging 126lb in eight of his last nine starts.

Suckoo’s batchmate, Richie Shakes, continued to fly his graduating class’ flag high, notching a two-timer on the 10-race holiday card.

Shakes booted home HOTBRED SCAMMER in the fifth for the Aston Commock Memorial at a mile, and RILEY J in the closing event at five and a half furlongs. Philip Parchment also rode a two-timer, DARK MATTER in the third and KP CHOICE in the eighth.

Racing continues on Saturday.