Philip Feanny - Ian allen

Jimmie, Star Racing Writer

TRAINER Philip Feanny yesterday showed how strong a hand he has in this year's three-year-old classics when I'M D'MAC, owned by Dennis Howell of D'S A LEGEND fame, scored a narrow victory over SIR KUNJABIHARI and 2000 Guineas third-placed CHIPONYOURSHOULDER at 1500 metres.

Sent off at odds of 4-1 in the eight-horse field, I'M D' MAC shot to the lead from the gate under apprentice Omar Walker, and repelled the challenge of 2-5 favourite CHIPONYOURSHOULDER down the backstretch before being taken on by SIR KUNJABIHARI, taking the shortest route along the rail.

Joined by SIR KUNJABIHARI with Richard Mitchell aboard, I'M D'MAC rallied strongly in the stretch run but had to be ridden out to the wire, lasting home by a neck.

With the Lotto Governor's Cup set for May 12, I'M D'MAC has added to Feanny's arsenal as the 14-time champion trainer already has 2000 Guineas winner, RUM TALK, as well as BLUE MAGIC aimed at the remaining three-year-old classics, which is topped by the June 2 Jamaica Derby.

Unsure

Howell, who co-owned the 1985 Derby winner, D'S A LEGEND, says he isn't sure whether Feanny will race I'M D'MAC in the Lotto Classic for the Governor's Cup, but definitely has sights set on the derby.

"I'm not sure whether he'll run," he said.

"I'll have to check with the trainer and go with his programme," he added.

Howell said he was pleased with I'M D'MAC's run.

"I'm very happy," he said. "I can now draw a line as to his progress. At this stage, I'm looking for at least third place in the derby," he added.

Punters endured a torrid time yesterday as RAZZ BUGG at 9-1, DESIGNED FOR LUCK at 11-1 and ROCK STAR QUEEN at 21-1 ensured the Super and Pick-9 jackpots eluded all bettors.

RAZZ BUGG, ridden by Leo Miller for Vincent Edwards, shot to the lead at the three-pole in the 1400-metre second race and DESIGNED FOR LUCK split leaders a furlong out to win the third at 1000 metres straight under Philip Clunis for Robert Darby Jr.

ROCK STAR QUEEN rounded off a double for apprentice Jason Simpson, sprinting to the lead and repelled 7-5 favourite INTRO-SPECTION's stretch run.

The Pick-9 will be back at its guaranteed minimum $1m on Saturday whereas the Super-6 has a carry-over of $854,460.