Chairman’s Cup unfolds at Sta. Ana

Golden Ballet, the best two-year-old last year and now a strong contender for the Triple Crown, goes back to work today when the Chairman’s Cup, a stakes race offering a top prize of P600,000, comes off the wraps at the Santa Ana Park.

The Jun Almeda-owned galloper, unbeaten in six starts last year, including five major stakes races, is favored to rule the 1,600-meter race. Out to challenge Golden Ballet are Unbreakable, Mighty Strong, Magical Mark, Mica’s Magic, What A Spell, Capriole and Señor Raggaas.

Golden Ballet, trained by former jockey Teodoro Basco and to be ridden by Jonathan Hernandez, was honored as the Best Juvenile Filly (2001) during the recent Fair and Square Awards. Last year alone, Golden Ballet earned a total of P2.5 million.

"The running of this event serves as a fitting highlight to the Philracom 28th anniversary celebration as it will provide racing fans a sneak preview of the upcoming Triple Crown series and the possible emergence of a favorite for the coveted championships, " said Philracom chairman Andrew Sanchez. — Ramon Romualdez