Karen Rosen (second right), group marketing manager of Wisynco, Joffia Johnson (second left), marketing executive beverages, and Kimberly Lawson (left), public relations sponsorship and events manager, jointly present the $1 million sponsorship cheque to CTL's marketing manager, Millicent Lynch, for the April 25 Bigga Jamaica Oaks Day at Caymanas Park. Occasion was yesterday's launch in the Trainers' Room at Caymanas Park. - Colin Hamilton/Freelance Photographer

The Bigga Jamaica Oaks for native-bred three-year-old fillies will be run at Caymanas Park on Saturday, April 25 and, in keeping with the annual 'Ladies Day' theme, 12 young women who have distinguished themselves in various fields will be honoured.

This was announced at yesterday's launch for the 70th running of the mile and quarter fillies classic by representatives of the sponsors, the Wisynco Group, and Caymanas Track Limited (CTL), the promoters, at Caymanas Park .

Wisynco has contributed $1 million to the promotion - $700,000 going directly to the purse of the Oaks (for the Hilma Veira Trophy) and $300,000 to six other races on the programme.

Speaking on behalf of the sponsors, Kimberly Lawson, PR, sponsorship and events manager, Wisynco Group, said Bigga was committed to sponsoring the race for yet another year and she was particularly pleased that this time "young women who have something positive to contribute to our nation" will be recognised.

The 12 women chosen, ranging from age 18 to 30, are entertainers Etana, Tessane and Tami Chin, Olympic champion Melaine Walker, dance teacher Sedanne Brownie, fashion designer Meleissa Dunkley, Carrie 'Quizz' Sigurdson, Naomi Garrick, Safia Copper, Neila Ebanks, along with the sisters Lana and Vanessa Chung, who have distinguished themselves academically from a tender age.

1000 Guineas winner

While providing raceday details, CTL's racing secretary, Denzil Miller Jr, said the Oaks field will be headed by last Saturday's impressive 1000 Guineas winner SAINT CECELIA, from the stables of Spencer Chung, the runner-up MISS RUTH, as well as PATARA, SHE'S MAGIC, SHAKIRA SHAKIRA, ROYALTY, C'EST MOI, ANASTASIA and FLAWLESS TALENT.

Miller further disclosed that the card will also feature the Lady Geeta Trophy grade one race over 1200 metres, which should see the likes of OUTSTANDING, AHWHOFAH, MEDICAL REPORT and possibly the 2008 Horse of the Year, ALSAFRA, vying for top honours.

Millicent Lynch, CTL's executive manager for marketing, said the popular Kiddies Stables will be activated on the day and this will cater to children from "challenged backgrounds".