Poon Tip: Triple crown bittersweet

OWNER of Wise Guy Neil Poon Tip said it was “disappointing” that fans could not witness Wise Guy win the triple crown at Santa Rosa Park in Arima on Saturday, but knows “a triple crown is a triple crown.”

Wise Guy, led by jockey Kimal Santo and trainer John O’Brien, won the Trinre-sponsored Trinidad Derby Stakes over 2,000 metres.

Speaking after the win, Poon Tip said, “It’s very difficult to explain the emotions.”

Poon Tip said fans in attendance would have made the triple crown more special, but he is grateful for the success. “A little disappointing is the atmosphere. Without the crowds it kind of dampens it, but nevertheless a derby is a derby, a triple crown is a triple crown so overall very, very happy.” Before Saturday’s Trinidad Derby Stakes, Wise Guy won the Guineas and the Mid Summer Classic.

Fans are not allowed to attend horse racing to prevent the spread of covid19. Only essential personnel such as owners, trainers and grooms are permitted to enter. For months, sporting venues around the world have not been filled because of the pandemic and some countries have not allowed any fans to attend.

On October 31, the stands had scores of people watching the races. Newsday spoke to fans on that day, but the Arima Race Club denied that fans were allowed to enter. The crowd at Saturday’s event was smaller. Apache and Bella Riva, also trained by O’Brien, were on the heels of Wise Guy but the latter held on to seal the triple crown. Apache finished second and Bella Riva was third.

Poon Tip was confident Wise Guy would hold on for the victory.

“Wise Guy is the best here and I always thought he had the measure of Bella Riva and I was telling the trainer that I am pretty sure nobody coming from behind could beat him…anybody coming in he will just keep going, keep going. Once he hit the front I knew nobody is coming from behind to beat him.”

Poon Tip said Wise Guy will be eyeing the Breeder’s Cup on Boxing Day.

“The Breeder’s Cup Classic on Boxing Day. I was trying to tempt the trainer to go in the Gold Cup but after seeing (him) making headlines today I think we going in the right race.”