Wind Blown seeks 3rd title in a row

Multi-titled Wind Blown shoots for a third straight victory this year when the Commissioner’s Cup honoring Enrique "Pocholo" Romualdez is staged today at the San Lazaro Hippodrome.

The Hermie Esguerra-owned galloper, who recorded more than P8 million in prize earnings last year, is favored to rule the 1,900-meter race. Other contenders are coupled entry Charlemagne and Staunch Ally, and High Roller.

Romualdez, the veteran journalist who served as Philracom commissioner from 1980 to 1986 and 1998 to 2000, will award the trophy and the P600,000 purse to the winning connection.

Local horse racing’s outstanding performers last year will also be honored today as the Philracom formally announces the recipients of the coveted "Fair And Square Awards" in simple festivities at the Turf Room of Manila Jockey Club.

Different awards will be handed out, including the title for Champion Juvenile (2-year-old) Mare/Distaff, Jockey of the Year, Champion Older Horse, Champion Older Mare/Distaff, Stallion of the Year, Trainer of the Year, Breeder of the Year and the Horse of the Year.

The industry’s annual recognition day, named after local racing great Fair and Square, serves as the highlight event of Philracom’s two-week anniversary celebration which will be capped by the running of the P1 million Chairman’s Cup next Sunday. — Ramon Romualdez