The Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup is prestigious. It has a dazzling list of seasoned contenders. It includes the latest horses bought by Gay Smith. She is renowned for winning three previous Gold Cups. Among her notable purchases is the Group 3 winner Stone Age. Many saw him as an underachiever. But, he shone as the runner-up in the 2022 Breeders' Cup Turf at Keeneland. Stone Age has a new addition. It's a Portfolio Company, led by Chad Brown. They aim to bring their A-game to the upcoming event.
Ken Ramsey is another top American owner. He has three Gold Cup victories. He has put forth many nominees, including Cash Equity. Cash Equity has shown his skill on the grass with six wins. Ramsey's entries are joined by SKYRO. SKYRO is a versatile winner on many surfaces. And, last year's Gold Cup champion, IT'S A GAMBLE, is looking to defend his title.
They arrive from Woodbine. PAT'SSEWINGMACHINE and FORESTER HUMOR are trained by Ted Holder. They are set to compete in the lead-up to the Gold Cup at the Garrison. Renaissance Frolic is owned by the record-holding Sir David Seale. He enters the fray based on local victories. He shows strong front-running power.
Other top nominees include SO SUAVE. He was third in the Gold Cup last year. Also, there is TEMPLE, trained by Mike Maker, who represents American interests. The nomination list is rounded out by BIG DREAMING, claimed by Chevan Maharaj. Also on the list is VIVIDLY, a mare with a strong record in Barbados, alongside ZAEED.
Three more spots were added to the Gold Cup lineup. This shows the event's allure. The extra spots promise a competition full of talent and anticipation.