Turf Talk Newsletter – 25 April, 2025

Above picture: Both Piere Strydom, pictured in Hollywood Racing colours, and Anthony Delpech have ridden four Durban July winners. (Credit: Candiese Lenferna Photography)

Newsletter cover picture: Strydom’s third July victoriy was from draw 20 of 20 aboard the Sean Tarry-trained Pomodoro in 2012. (Credit: sahorseracing.com)

Piere “Striker” Strydom’s insurance costs have gone up so much that it is “pushing me out of the game” and he said there was a possibility he would not be able to have a final tilt at equalling Anton Marcus’s record of five July wins, with his weight being the other negative factor.

It is a prerequisite to have a certain amount of insurance cover for a jockey to keep his or her license, but Strydom’s insurance costs are rising due to his age.

He said he had the option of changing insurance companies as long as he did it before his next birthday (June 7) and said he would be speaking to another such company soon.

However, he said the dilemma he would then face if the new one turned out to be affordable would be whether it would be worth the risk, because the cover he would get in case of an accident would likely be way less than the cover he had with his current insurance company.

Apparently insurance companies these days are reluctant to insure jockeys as it is viewed as a dangerous occupation and therefore high risk, so that and the fact he has been with his current company for a long time and made many contributions means a new policy is likely to have substantuially less cover in case of an accident.

Strydom’s costs also include medical aid and gap cover and ultimately the rising costs, which are due to his age, have meant an astronomical amount is taken out of his potential earnings per month.

He would really like to hang on for one more Hollywoodbets Durban July ride, but having lost the ride on See It Again, who would be topweight as it stands, the choices of other horses he can make the weight on are thin.

He said, “I am not so sure I will still be riding at the time of the July as I am not going for the championship or anything and you can get injured at any minute, so it makes no sense to ride for nothing (earnings minus insurance and medical costs leaves him with little at the end of the month).”

He added, “There is the possibility I might be retiring quite soon, but we will just see what the opportunities are for the July.”

Nevertheless, he has already booked accomodation for the July for himself and his family and he said, “Everybody wants to be at the July and I will be there whether I’m riding in it or not!”

He then took some time to reminisce about his memories of the great race from beginning to end.

“I first heard about the July as a little kid, because my dad was a jockey and I used to look at the race card and was getting involved without really knowing it. I remember the first horse that caught my attention was Jamaican Music, this lovely grey horse, and when he won it in 1976 that was my first fond memory of the July.”

“When I became a jockey the July was almost like you’ve now come to the big league. It’s THE race that the country will hear about. Even if you’re not a racing person, you might know about the Durban July winner. So, it’s almost like becoming champion jockey, but winning the July probably means more to the public, because that’s what the country, if you’re not a racing person, might know about. It’s a race we all want to win and it comes only once a year. To just be part of it is great, but to actually win it, it’s like you can’t believe it. At my first win I was almost in tears, tears of relief and tears of finally knowing you have won the July. It is not just the build up and winning the race, it is the acknowledgement of having won the July and people will still be talking about it years later.”

“My first ride was on Gitano for Piet Steyn in 1988. I remember coming from the tail end of the field and I think Jeff Lloyd finished third again, because I think he stopped riding just before the line and we came flying for second (beaten 3,6 lengths) by Royal Chalice.”

“My first July win on London News in 1996 was especially memorable because it was the 100th running. I remember at the traditional Friday night cocktail Henk Vos was there with his big painting and there was one spot left for the 100th winner and I can still remember saying to someone that I think my picture’s going to be up there. And it happened!”

“London News was a lekker horse to ride because he had gate speed, a lot of natural speed and he would travel right up there in front and he had a good kick. But at the top of the straight I thought with a light weight let me just let the reins go a bit and get a length or two for the short straight. But he accelerated way quicker than I had expected and that’s when he made up three or four lengths on the field. Obviously it was going to tell at the end and he was stopping quite badly at the end. I heard the horses coming and I was just hoping for the line and he held on. But I was a little bit doubtful whether he did hold on, because the angle obviously favours the outside horse (Sleek Machine, ironically ridden by Doug Whyte, who badly wanted to win as owner Laurie Jaffee took him off after London News’ defeat in the Cape Guineas). So I was a bit worried but his ability got him through and he was made for Greyville. When the numbers came up there were almost the tears (as mentioned earlier) and I was shouting and screaming, I think the whole grandstand heard me!”

His other wins on Trademark 2001, Pomodoro 2012 and The Conglomerate 2016 were just as memorable and he said, “Obviously every July win is great. But what was nice was winning on Pomodoro from the worst draw (20 out of 20) and winning on The Conglomerate from the worst draw (18 out of 18), those rides were particularly memorable. In the first bit of the July they always go too fast and the fact I was drawn on the outside allowed me to keep up with the pace and when they started easing I came around them and found a handy position and dictated the race from there. It is quite pleasing to remember my tactical riding and the way the race worked out, that I could come from the worst draw and still win the race.”

Piere is not oblivious to needing just one more July win to equal Anton Marcus’ record of five.

He recalled, “Anton chirped me one year. He had just won the July and said to me, ‘How many times have you won the July?’ and I only realised a couple of seconds later he was being facetious, because he’s got one more than me! It would mean a lot to jointly hold the record and that’s why I’ve also been going a bit longer than I should be, because I’m just looking for that one more.”

The Equator (Ire) winning for Aidan O’Brien over a mile and two furlongs at Leopardstown. (Credit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos))

The 129th edition of Africa’s greatest horse race, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, has attracted an entry of 61.

The big South African names are all there and are joined also by a former Aidan O’Brien-trained import called Equator (IRE), which adds further intrigue to the big race this year.

The Equator had an Official Rating in Britain and Ireland of 107 and the NHA have given him a merit rating of 110.

It is believed he was imported by leading Highveld owner Willem Ackerman and breeder Nigel Riley, and is now based with the Tony Peter yard.

The 4yo Leopardstown maiden winner ran fourth in a Gr3 and fifth in a Gr2 in the UK.

His is a three parts brother to Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf winner, Lake Victoria (Frankel) and has clearly been imported as a stallion.

Eight On Eighteen is an entry, but the Snaith yard have indicated stallion duties are also a priority for him so his more important targets are the WSB Guineas, the Gr 1 Daily News 2000 and the Gr 1 Champions Cup.

Snaith, seeking a sixth July win, has the most entries, ten in all.

Mike de Kock has joined forces with his son Matthew and his yard are also seeking a sixth July win. They have five entries including Vercingetorix filly Spumante Dolce, who is a three-parts sister to the yard’s 2022 July winner, Sparkling Water.

Brett and James Crawford will be going for a third successive July and have two entries, including defending champion Oriental Charm, who is the joint favourite with the sponsor together with Eight On Eighteen.

The 61 entries include 13 females, so there is unlikely to be a repat of last year in which there were no female runners, the fist time that had happened for years.

The total number of 61 entries compares to 58 entries received in 2024, 60 in 2023, 68 in 2022, 53 in 2021, 52 in 2020, 49 in 2019, and 69 in 2018.

Here are the entries:

The Hollywoodbets Durban July timeline:

• First declarations close at 11h00 on Monday, 12 May.
• First supplementary entries close at 11h00 on Tuesday, 13 May
• Second declarations close at 11h00 on Monday, 9 June
• Final supplementary entries close at 11h00 on Tuesday, 17 June, on which date the weights will be published.
• Final field and draw announcement will take place on Tuesday, 24 June.
• A final field of 20 horses will be carded (18 + 2 Reserves)
• The Reserves to be scratched by 08h15 on Friday 4 July. Elimination will be at the sole and unfettered discretion of Gold Circle.

Truth is tipped to win the Senor Santa (JC Photos)

The Championship Finale meeting on Saturday features four Gr 2s, two Gr 3s and a Listed event and is headlined by the Gr 2 R500,000 Senor Santa Stakes over 1160m.

Truth has shown class since day one and has come into his own in his last two starts over 1400m and 1100m respectively. The 1160m trip should be ideal and Muzi Yeni can use his speed to position him well from draw five out of nine. Pistol Pete has put in three fine performances over this course and distance and can use his pace to overcome a disadvantageous low draw. Chasing happiness has a chance at the weights and is drawn on the right side. Mount Pilatus is in fine form and should be in the shake-up although a draw of three will be tricky. Taxi To The Moon was well beaten in the Gr 1 Computaform Sprint, but has an easier task here and could be involved. Chyavana is in fine form and is drawn on the right side, so is not out of it. Mrs. Browning is capable but has been off form. Melech has a disadvantageous low draw, but he has class and should be finishing strongly. Magic Tattoo is a capable sort and in an open race it would not be surprising if he finished in the money.

The first race of the day is the Gr 3 Pretty Polly Stakes over 1,100 meters. Jingleberry made an eye-catching debut and under Gavin Lerena should be running on strongly. Draw one is a bit of a concern, although it is a small field of just six runners. One Fine Winter is drawn on the right side under Richard Fourie and comes off a good second in the SA Fillies Nursery. She should be right there. Glastonbury has class and can do better than she did in the SA Fillies Nursery when finishing 2,60 lengths behind One Fine Winter. Malibu won easily on debut and could be anything, although this is a much stronger field. Red Caramel has a lot to find. Tina Lovelace was well beaten in the SA Nursery, but could do better than that.

The second race is the Gr 3 Tab Protea Stakes over 1,100 meters and the SA Nursery winner Green Diamond could beat the boys again. Tin Pan Alley made a good winning debut and has Richard Fourie aboard, but he is drawn on the wrong side. King Harald has 4,5 lengths to make up on Green Diamond, but could possibly do better than that. Kaalvoet made a winning debut, but it was in an uninspiring field and this is a completely different proposition. Lava County was beaten two lengths by Tin Pan Alley on debut and is now 3kg better off.

The third race is the listed Tab Gold Bowl over 3200m and the classy stayer My Soul Mate is well weighted here and is the one to beat under Richard Fourie. Battleground will relish the distance and if able to overcome a wide draw under S’Manga Khumalo could be a threat. Breeze Over is a dangerous front-running sort and has the ideal pole position draw to fulfill these tactics, provided he jumps well under a pilot who knows him well, Muzi Yeni. Twenty Drachma’s has always struck as one who should get better as he gets older and the best might not have been seen of him yet. To The Rescue is also a progressive sort, who could improve.

In the Gr 2 Camellia Stakes over 1160m Gimme A Shot has speed and class and is drawn on the right side so could be the one to beat under Muzi Yeni. Mia Moo is in fine form and it would be no surprise if this classy sort won the race, but she does have a low draw of two to overcome, although Piere Strydom up will help her cause. Almond Sea is a speedy and classy sprinter but, but does have the problem of usually starting slowly, so from a favourable draw nine she might experience some traffic problems on the outside rail. Winter Greeting is full of ability, but does take a while to come to hand and her last start suggested she might be ready to produce her best here. Time Fo Orchids is capable of a strong finish and is drawn on the right side. Chrome Tourmaline is in good form and could defy the weights, which officially give her a hard task.

In the Gr 2 Tab Igugu Stakes over 2000m Olivia’s Way put up a cracking performance in the Gr 1 TAB SA Derby and over an ideal trip here from a fair draw under Gavin Lerena looks to be the one to beat. World of Alice comes off a narrow runner up finish in the SA Oaks and is progressive, but might find this touch on the sharp side. None Other is a former SA Oaks winner and from pole position should be unwinding a good finish in the straight. Indian Ocean is a classy sort with a big stride and she goes well for Piere Strydom, so could be dangerous from a good draw of two. Beating Wings has plenty of ability and under Richard Fourie it would be no surprise to see her prevail.

In the Gr 2 TAB Colorado King Stakes over 2,000m Marauding Horde looked to be one who would come into his own as he got older and it looks to be his time to shine, so he is the one to beat from draw two over an ideal trip. Let’s Go Now is well weighted here and from a good draw should be finishing strongly under Richard Fourie. Hotarubi is full of ability, but is an enigmatic sort, so it all depends on his demeanour on the day. Infinite Wonder is distance suited and capable, but this is a second run after a one-and-a-half year layoff. Navajo Nation has always been facing strong fields and this easier task could see him earning.

SA Nursery winner Green Diamond is tipped to win the Gr 3 Protea Stakes (JC Photos).

Turffontein Standside Saturday Formguides, Selections and Permutations

R1

2 JINGLEBERRY 4 ONE FINE WINTER 1 GLASTONBURY 3 MALIBU

Preview: 2 JINGLEBERRY made an eye-catching debut and should be right there. 4 ONE FINE WINTER  beat Glastonbury in the S.A. Fillies Nursery and with Richard Fourie now up, could confirm the form.1 GLASTONBURY Glastonbury has a lot of class and speed, and from a middle draw could be right there. 3 MALIBU won easily on debut and could be anything, so is an interesting runner. (2-4-1-3)

R2

4 GREEN DIAMOND 3 TIN PAN ALLEY 2 KING HARALD 1 KAALVOET

Preview: 4 GREEN DIAMOND won the S.A. Nursery in fine style and can confirm her class here,getting another gender allowance. 3 TIN PAN ALLEY won well on debut and could still be anything, but does have the tricky number one draw, although Richard Fourie is up. 2 KING HARALD was not disgraced in the S.A. Nursery, but does have 4,5 lengths to make up on Green Diamond. 1 KAALVOET won well on debut, but this is a much stronger field.  (4-3-2-1)

R3

3 MY SOUL MATE 5 BATTLEGROUND 1 BREEZE OVER 8 TWENTY DRACHMA’S

Preview: 3 MY SOUL MATE is a classy stayer and with Richard Fourie up, looks the one to beat at the weights. 5 BATTLEGROUND is an out-and-out stayer and will relish the 3,200m trip, so could be in the shake-up.1 BREEZE OVER is a fine front-running sort, so has the ideal number one draw to fulfil these tactics and hopefully will get a good break. 8 TWENTY DRACHMA’S is a promising sort and he should be coming into his own. (3-5-1-8)

R4

1 GIMME A SHOT 4 MIA MOO 7 ALMOND SEA 3 WINTER GREETING

Preview: 1 GIMME A SHOT has speed and class and at the weights and from a high draw could be the one to beat. 4 MIA MOO is full of speed and class and should be right there, although the low draw is a bit of a concern. 7 ALMOND SEA has a lot of speed, but does tend to start slowly, so from a high draw might experience some traffic problems. 3 WINTER GREETING should be reaching her peak and at her best, should be able to earn here with Richard Fourie up. (1-4-7-3)

R5

6 OLIVIA’S WAY 7 WORLD OF ALICE 2 NONE OTHER 3 INDIAN OCEAN

Preview: 6 OLIVIA’S WAY ran a cracker in the SA Derby and back against her own gender here will be a force to be reckoned with over an ideal trip. 7 WORLD OF ALICE should also be in the shakeup, although she would probably prefer further than 2,000m.2 NONE OTHER  is a decent middle distance type and from draw 1 she could be in the shake-up.3 INDIAN OCEAN goes well for Piere Strydom and this classy sort will be dangerous from draw 2. (6-7-2-3)

R6

2 MARAUDING HORDE 7 LET’S GO NOW 1 HOTARUBI 3 INFINITE WONDER

Preview: 2 MARAUDING HORDE has come into his own and should give a fine account of himself from a good draw. 7 LET’S GO NOW  has plenty of class and over an ideal trip should be in the shakeup.1 HOTARUBI is an enigmatic sort but can never be ignored because on his day he will be a big threat here. 3 INFINITE WONDER has some decent form and could earn here. (3-7-1-3)

R7

4 TRUTH 3 PISTOL PETE 9 CHASING HAPPINESS 2 MOUNT PILATUS

Preview: 4 TRUTH is full of speed and class and from a middle draw is the one to beat.3 PISTOL PETE is also speedy and classy and with Richard Fourie up might be able to overcome a tricky draw of 2. 9 CHASING HAPPINESS has a fair chance here at the weights and can’t be underestimated, although it’s always difficult against the boys. 2 MOUNT PILATUS  is in fine form and should be in the shakeup, although he does have a tricky draw of 3. (4-3-9-2)

R8

6 PRESLEY 8 PLAYER 10 MOUNT DARWIN 3 DOITWITHDIAMONDS

Preview: 6 PRESLEY should be at his peak and from pole position he should be finishing strongly. 8 PLAYER has a good draw here and has the ability to be in the shakeup.10 MOUNT DARWIN should be running on well from a good draw. 3 DOITWITHDIAMONDS is in fine form and should be running on as usual. (6-8-10-3)

R9

7 VIBE SA 5 LONGSWORD 12 BLIZZARD SNOW 13 HEMISPHERE

Preview: 7 VIBE SA has come into his own and he should be able to rise above his current merit rating. 5 LONGSWORD has drawn well and should be finishing strongly. 12 BLIZZARD SNOWhas the form to earn and Forie could help overcome a lowish draw. 13 HEMISPHERE won well second time out in the Highveld and with Gavin Lerena up from a nice high draw he should be in the shakeup.

R10

1 OBSIDIAN 5 UNSOLVED RIDDLE 7 WRITTEN IN STONE 2 GOLDEN ASPEN

Preview: 1 OBSIDIAN looks to have plenty of ability and could be the one to beat off a 79 merit rating. 5 UNSOLVED RIDDLE brings some decent Cape Town form but does have a wide draw to overcome. 7 WRITTEN IN STONE is a gallant 9 year old who seldom lets the side down.2 GOLDEN ASPEN  is capable of being in the shakeup from a good draw. (1-5-7-2)

R11

3 CAPTAIN EFFICIENT 2 SAKHALA IS’CATHULO 12 JET CAT 5 PRIZED PLATINUM

Preview: 3 CAPTAIN EFFICIENT has the form to be involved in the finish. 2 SAKHALA IS’CATHULO is drawn on the right side and has the ability to be right there. 12 JET CAT is still competitive at age 9 and has drawn well.5 PRIZED PLATINUM  is in fine form and should be in the shakeup with Andrew Fortune up. (3-2-12-5)

Place Accumulator: (R216)
Leg 1: 3,5
Leg 2: 1,4,7
Leg 3: 6,7
Leg 4: 2,7,1
Leg 5: 4
Leg 6: 6,8
Leg 7: 7,5,12

Pick 6: (R729)
Leg 1: 1,4,7
Leg 2: 6,7,2
Leg 3: 2,7,1
Leg 4: 4,3,9
Leg 5: 6,8,10
Leg 6: 7,5,12

Jackpot: (R81)
Leg 1: 6,7,2
Leg 2: 2,7,1
Leg 3: 4,3,9
Leg 4: 6,8,10

Best Bet:
Race 7: 4

Value Bet:
Race 8: 6

The impressive Fortress Of Fire will be out to win the Gr 3 Godolphin Barb Stakes, a race his granddam She’s A Winner won.  (Candiese Lenferna Photography).

Hollywoodbets Scottsville Sunday Formguides And Selections

R1 Summary: CAPTAIN’S PRIDE (1) started favourite when second best to I’m A Fireball who won with authority. With three runs under her girth on this course she could well prove a match for her male rivals. MALSHANA MOU (9) made good improvement second time out when narrowly beaten but S’Manga Khumalo has opted to partner Captain’s Pride which could be telling. WAROFDYNAMITE (7) finished six lengths off comfortable winner Fortress Of Fire last time out but was right behind the placed runners. He gets first time blinkers. STAR IN MOTION (5) was due to run on Wednesday and is one to watch should he line up here. (Andrew Harrison: 1-9-7-5).

R2 Summary: ICY ELEANOR (7) has not been out since making a winning debut nearly a year back. She was well fancied that day and can make a winning return. WINGS OF JOSEPHINE (1) cruised to a comfortable victory last time out. She took a seven-point rise in the handicap but does get another 4kg claimer aboard. VISION TO ACHIEVE (4) was caught late when going a furlong further last time out. She can do better this shorter trip. (Andrew Harrison: 7-1-4).

R3 Summary: PHIL THE FUTER (9) has his first run for a new stable. He boasts some fair Cape and PE form and should be competitive in this line-up. DANUBE (3) has never been far back in his six starts to date. He may just have needed his last effort and should have a bright chance here. SERGEANT SOQRAT (6) made a modest debut at long odds but does come from a visiting stable that does well on this course. WINDOW TO MY SOUL (4) looks capable of improving on his debut run and the extra furlong should suit. (Andrew Harrison: 9-3-4-6).

R4 Summary: ISIVIVANE (1) made a winning return to racing after a year’s lay-off, winning comfortably. He jumps in class but appears to be under the handicappers radar and with only 52kg to shoulder he should at least be competitive in a competitive handicap. FASTNET FILLY (7) is lightly raced and has only been out of the money twice in 10 outings. She beat the smart Green Sapphire two runs back and she too has a light weight in her favour. Kannemeyer has two runners serious runners. OUTLAW KING (5) won the Cape Merchants last run but stable rider Craig Zackey partners TEFLON MAN (8) who gave his supporters a few anxious moments before sewing up his race last time out. KING OF THE GAULS (11) is way better than his Cape form. Back on home turf her could surprise. (Andrew Harrison: 1-7-8-11).

R5 Summary: KEUKENHOF (4) strolled to a comfortable maiden win on debut clocking a useful time. She faces a lot stronger here but could well be something special. WILD GREEN (1) was a beaten favourite in the Cape Nursery last run. She also looks to be well above average. QUICKSTEPGAL (6) made the required improvement when hacking up second time of asking. A repeat should see her in the firing line. WINTER BELLE (2) makes the trip from the Highveld to make her debut. She could be a candidate for the Gr1 Allan Robertson so should be worth following in the market. (Andrew Harrison: 4-2-6-2).

R6 Summary: FORTRESS OF FIRE (2) also cruised to an easy debut victory in good time. He looks more than useful and can follow up. I’M A FIREBALL (1) lived up to his name on debut winning comfortably. He takes on stronger but looks progressive. MILITARY COMMAND (5) makes his local debut after two comfortable Hollywoodbets Kenilworth victories. He cannot be left out of any exotics. ELEGANTRIX (6) takes on males in what looks to be a warm-up for the Allan Robertson. (Andrew Harrison: 2-5-1-6).

R7 Summary: SUMMER LILY (2) has twice finished behind Asiye Phambili and is now 6.5kg better off at the weights which should be more than enough to turn the tables. ASIYE PHAMBILI (6) is back with Duncan Howells after a successful trip to the Cape. She shoulders a big weight but on her best form she could again prove a little too good for her younger rivals. GIMMIE’S COUNTESS (12) has been costly to follow and was a beaten odds-on chance last run when seemingly having it all in her favour. She was run out of it late that day and the drop in trip could better suit. SHIPHOLIA (11) started favourite against males last run finishing behind Teflon Man. However, she goes will on this course and can do better than her last effort. (Andrew Harrison: 2-8-12-11).

R8 Summary: Wide open. BRISTOL HERCULES (2) has his first outing for a new stable and Richard Fourie rides. He has been close-up in all five of his recent outings and jumps from a favourable gate. RICH FOLKS HOAX (13) has a difficult draw to overcome but he made a smart local debut and the step up in trip coupled with a handy galloping weight could see him home. KING OF SPIN (11) has also drawn wide but was just over a length back to Rich Folks Hoax when last they met. He has come to hand for his new stable. TYRCONNELL (14) is drawn one off the outside but goes very well on this course and with some luck in running he should be a contender. (Andrew Harrison: 2-13-11-14).

Luke Ferraris has a chance of winning the Gr 1 FWD Champions Mile with his Hong Kong Classic Mile winner My Wish. (Picture: HKJC)

Tim Carroll (At The Races)

Our Hong Kong racing expert has analysis and selections for every race on FWD Champions Day at Sha Tin this Sunday

This Sundays sees one of the highlights on the Hong Kong racing calendar in FWD Champions Day. This exciting 10-race card at Sha Tin – live on Sky Sports Racing from 5.45am – features three Group 1 contests, with international runners from both hemispheres converging for the record prize-money on offer, which is in excess of £6.5 million for the three feature races alone.

Now onto this week’s selections…

Race 1: Class 4 FWD Insurance Act Private Handicap (5.45am) (1m 1f)
3 ORIENTAL SMOKE arrives having been third over the mile last time when only beaten a narrow margin having been a tad tight for room on the rail in the straight. The selection goes from a mark of 57 and although he may not be as good as what he once was, he has won from as high as 83. This will be just the second time he’s been tried over this trip which is slightly surprising given he was runner-up on that occasion, which was less than a year ago, from a 6lb higher mark in a race that ran deeper than this.

Dangers:
1 Matsu Victor was one spot in front of the selection last time, who he meets on slightly worse terms, when runner-up over the mile, and he was strong enough at the line to suggest he’ll enjoy the extra furlong at his first try over this trip.

2 Beauty Viva, who was a two-time winner (when known as Validated) for Joseph Parr, was just over two-lengths behind the selection last time when having his first spin at this level and he should have more to offer with Purton sticking solid.

5 Volcanic Spark can be hard to catch, but he does enjoy this trip, a 2lb drop in the handicap sees him just 2lb above his last win, and James McDonald is a notable first time booking.

Race 2: Class 4 FWD Insurance Goahead Group Handicap (6.15am) (6f)
3 TOP THRONE was well backed on debut last month, and he ran well in defeat to finish fourth after a tough run planted wide, before breaking his duck over course and trip here at his second start earlier this month. He only won by ¾ length last time, but he’s looked professional and has plenty of scope for further improvement. He does go up 7lb for that, and he does have a tricky draw to contend with, but if he can slot in with some cover, the son of Ten Sovereigns should go close to recording back-to-back wins before moving up in grade.

Dangers:
4 Patch Of Time was last seen when placed on the dirt, but he’s a two-time winner over course and trip this season and ran with merit in defeat when last seen on the turf to grab the silver when two spots in front of the selection, who he now meets on 5lb better terms.

6 Beauty Missile is yet to record a single local win in twenty-seven goes, but he arrives having been runner-up over course and trip last time and although he goes up 2lb for that, he has been placed from marks up to 19lb higher mark in the past.

2 Parterre is an 8-year-old that does do a lot of winning but all three local wins have come from a similar mark and he has been around the mark at his last two, both over course and trip.

Race 3: Class 4 FWD Insurance ICBC (Asia) Handicap (6.45am) (7f)
1 SUPER EXPRESS was heavily supported on debut and justified the market support when winning over course and trip under Ryan Moore last month. The John Size 3-year-old went on to win by 1¼ lengths, but he won with plenty of authority, despite proven to be a tad difficult to extricate from behind the leaders in the straight. He goes up 8lb for that, but he looks like he could be one right out of the box, and regular readers will know that I’m a firm believer that young progressive above average types are usually good enough to win Class 4s from the top of the handicap.

Dangers:
2 Super Love won over course and trip at just his second start and ran well in defeat last time to pick up the bronze, and although he was over two-lengths behind the winner that day, he knuckled badly out of the stalls and found himself further back that what he did the start prior, and he should enjoy stepping up to this trip.

5 Monarch County broke shed his maiden status at just his fifth start and his second go over this trip last time and although he goes up 7lb, he has looked better every time he has stepped up and there should be more to come.

9 Patch Of Stars is a five-start maiden that was runner-up on the dirt over 6f last time, but he had run with a bit or promise his previous two over course and trip despite featuring in the steward’s report on both occasions, and Purton now takes over.

Race 4: Class 2 FWD Insurance Bocom Handicap (7.15am) (7f)
4 YOUNG CHAMPION, who won (when known as Sharlouk) a Leopardstown maiden for Johnny Murtagh, won over course and trip two back before maybe even a better effort in defeat last time when runner-up to a smart type despite running a tad keen early, then being tight for room in the straight. He had Divano one spot behind last time, and as a subsequent winner – which franks the form – he now meets that rival on 9lb better terms. The selection runs his best races when he has something to aim at, and with a few here that like to punch forward, he should have the race run to suit.

Dangers:
6 Invincible Shield, who is an exciting type that won his last four starts in Australia, landed his second win from just three local starts last time and although he goes up in grade and tries 7f for the first time, he carries 16lb less than last time and ran through the line with plenty of purpose his last two.

2 Divano won in good style last time when having just his third go over this trip, but a 10lb penalty and a change of rider sees him effectively go up 13lb, which makes things far more challenging.

1 Taj Dragon, who is a Group 3 winner, goes from the top of the handicap and he doesn’t win to often these days, but he’s an honest type that meets Divano on 9lb better terms having finished 1¼ lengths behind him in third over course and trip last time.

Race 5: Group 1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (7.50am) (6f)
1 KA YING RISING is the world’s top-rated sprinter and arrives looking to land his twelfth straight win and his fourth Group 1. The David Hayes-trained 4-year-old has taken all before him this season, winning most of his races in facile style having not gone off any bigger than 1.30 (3/10) in the betting at his last six starts. The son of Shamexpress has it all, plenty of early speed, he travels strongly, he comes back under the rider, and he has that one big weapon that separates the great sprinters from the rest, the ability to kick strongly off a strong gallop. Whilst there’s no such thing as an absolute certainty in horse racing, this fellow is probably as close as you get, and only bad luck or an uncustomary well below-par performance would bring about his undoing.

Dangers:
6 Helios Express is a highly-talented galloper, but he is unfortunate to be around at the same time as Ka Ying Rising, having now finished runner-up five times and placed third another behind his nemesis in six starts this season. The John Size-trained 5-year-old is a stretch runner, and with pace on offer he will get the race run to suit and should be rattling late, but all things being equal on the day, he’s mostly likely once again is going to be playing for the silver behind Hong Kong’s champion.

2 Satono Reve is a Japanese challenger that ran a big race when picking up the bronze behind Ka Ying Rising in the Longines Hong Kong Sprint last December. He arrives in good form having won a Group 1 sprint in Japan late last month leading into this, which was a career best. He was less than a length behind Ka Ying Rising when they met, but in all fairness, all the runners that day were flattered by the margin with Ka Ying Rising having to overcome a tardy start from a high draw and being hounded all the way by a speed runner, not to mention that the selection has improved since then.

3 Lucky Sweynesse, who around a year ago or so was considered Hong Kong top sprinter and one of the best in the world, is on the comeback trail and will be having his first spin in just over a year. The Manfred Man-trained 6-year-old, who took this race in 2023 and has won 16 of his 24 starts, has the same local peak rating (132) as Ka Ying Rising, and he does arrive having looked sharp as a tac in a couple of recent winning trials. But at his best I doubt he’d get the better of the selection and although sprinters can run peak performances first-up, he is being pitched in deep on his return.

Race 6: Class 3 FWD Insurance CCB (Asia) Handicap (8.25am) (6f)
3 GENEVA is a low-mileage 4-year-old that has won three of his six starts this season, including last time out over course and trip when scoring good style. The second and third from that race are yet to be seen again, but the fourth, who was just over two-lengths behind the selection, then came out and won here last weekend. The selection goes up 7lb for the win, and he does draw a tad high, but they like to ride him cold, he should get a solid gallop to aim at and looks open to further improvement.

Dangers:
4 Masterofmyuniverse is a lightly-raced 4-year-old that has won twice over course and trip and arrives having run with merit in defeat his last two, placed behind a smart one two back and given plenty to do last time, and he looks shortlist material here.

9 Akashvani, who was a well backed winner over course and trip on debut last month before finishing runner-up last time, will be moving up in grade and he does have more on his plate, but he’s entitled to improve further and carries 15lb less here.

2 Savvy Brilliant, who has won two of his five local starts, was well held last time having played up in the barriers, but he scoped poorly post-race, connections add ear-plus and a pacifier, and it would be no surprise if he ran a forward race on his first run since December.

Race 7: Group 1 FWD Champions Mile (9.00am) (1m)
12 MY WISH on local ratings is 30 points inferior to Voyage Bubble, thus he does have plenty to find with the Hong Kong’s best miler under these conditions, and whilst I’ve no doubt the likely favourite will take all the beating, I think this fellow could represent some value. The Mark Newnham-trained 4-year-old arrives having won the first leg of the 4-year-old Classic Series before finishing runner-up in the next two legs, but with a bit more luck he could have easily been a Triple Crown winner. He was the only pace runner in the finish in the Hong Kong Classic Cup, which is the last time he was seen over this trip, he was then ridden upside down in the Derby from a high draw, dropping out to last before rattling late to be beaten a lip, in a race that set-up poorly for the hold-up runners. He takes on some world class milers here, and it is his acid test, but he’s very much on the up and should have more to offer, while the draw in stall 1 looks perfect.

Dangers:
2 Voyage Bubble has taken over from the retired Golden Sixty as Hong Kong’s premier miler, and he’ll take all the beating here. The Hong Kong Mile winner from December was turned over in this last year, but that was on the back of a trip to Dubai, he is currently rated 6lb superior to then and has been in career best form. He does drop back from winning over 10f when last seen in February, but he’s had a short break to freshen up and has looked in good order in two recent trial wins.

1 Mr Brightside is a wonderful 7-year-old from Australia that has won 19 of his 43 starts, including nine Group 1s, and doesn’t know how to run a bad race. He did debut in New Zealand, but other than that, this will be his first time away from home, which is always a consideration, but he has travelled and performed to a high level in both NSW and Victoria on many tracks, which would suggest that not much phases him. The Ben Hayes inmate was a lip behind Romantic Warrior in a Cox Plate over 10f, but this has always been his best trip, and the last time he finished outside of the first two over a mile was in November 2022, when he picked up the bronze.

6 Galaxy Patch started this season vying with Voyage Bubble to take over from Golden Sixty as Hong Kong’s best miler, but he’s managed just one win in six starts, when he had Voyage Bubble back in second on his seasonal return last October. However, whilst you don’t want to make too many excuses after five defeats, he is now zero from four goes at the top level but hasn’t really enjoyed the rub of the green a few times during that sequence, and with a clear round here, it wouldn’t be a surprise were he to feature.

Race 8: Group 1 FWD QEII Cup (9.40am) (1m 2f)
1 GOLIATH, who won the King George at Ascot last year when finishing in front of the eventual Arc winner Blue Stocking, will be having his first outing since running better than the bare result when beaten just over three-lengths in the Japan Cup last November. The French trained galloper is better known for his exploits over a mile and a half and he did win his maiden over that trip, however, with an international rating of 126, which puts him 8lb clear of the next best (Prognosis and Tastiera), he’s the class runner of the contest, and I think that class will take him a long way here. The selection is by no means a slow horse, having made all over further, and whilst I don’t suspect they will try to make a play for the front, given there’s not a great deal of pace in the race as well as his proven stamina, they may look to lay up in behind the leaders with a favourable tow into the contest.

Dangers:
11 Liberty Island is a high-class filly that won the Triple Tiara as a 3-year-old in Japan, and whilst it’s been a whilst she since last won, she continues to run to a high level. She’ll strip fitter for her unplaced effort in the Dubai Turf, which was her first run of the year, and that performance was better than the bare result given she had a tough trip planted wide. She has been here once before, when runner-up to Romantic Warrior in the Hong Kong Cup last December, and although very much second best on the day, she did have the others well beaten, which includes a few that line up here.

3 Tastiera, who won the 2023 version of the Japanese Derby, hasn’t been seen since finishing in behind both Romantic Warrior and Liberty Island in the Hong Kong Cup last December. However, he does run well fresh, having been runner-up in both a St Leger and the Tenno Sho (autumn edition) when back from similar layoffs. From a tactical perspective, he’s a versatile sort, but they did punch forward here in December, and even though he often goes over further, he’s a Group 2 winner at this trip and has only missed the frame once in five goes.

2 Prognosis isn’t getting any younger and he’s yet to win a Group 1 as a 7-year-old, but he has run to that standard on several occasions and hasn’t always enjoyed the best of luck. I don’t want to be the person that ‘shot Bambi’, but I truly believe he should have won this race last year when plenty went wrong, before finishing a neck behind Romantic Warrior. The lack of pace must be a concern as he tends to enjoy having a strong gallop to aim at, but they did send him forward when runner-up to Via Sistina in the Cox Plate, which was run at a farcical gallop, and although well beaten by the winner that day, she ran to the highest level (according to Timeform) we saw on turf anywhere in the world last year.

Race 9: Class 3 FWD Insurance NCB Handicap (10.20am) (1m)
6 STAR MAC, who won a maiden at his only start in Australia, has managed just one local win from twenty-one starts, but he’s more talented than his profile would suggest, it’s just he’s a late closer that need some luck and a solid gallop to aim at, which he should get here with at least four runners that like to punch forward. He draws down in stall 1, and that could go either way, but he’s only 6lb above his winning mark in January when he came from last to first, and if he gets the breaks when needed, he should be rattling late.

Dangers:
11 Magnificent Nine has a modest strike rate but he continues to run well in defeat, and they have elected to try him over a mile for the first time which looks a good move as he continues to run on in his races, and gun Australian hoop, Craig Williams picks up a ride.

10 Family Jewel makes his return from a short break after a minor setback, but he’s a lightly-raced 4-year-old that holds a two from two record over this trip and although he might be better suited over a tad further in time, a market watch is strongly advised.

14 Good Luck Babe took nine goes to break his local duck when winning over course and trip last, and he has more on his plate now that moves up in grade under a 5lb penalty, but he made all last time, and he draws low here with 14lb less to carry.

Race 10: Class 3 FWD Insurance CMB Wing Lung Bank Handicap (10.55am) (7f)
14 HAROLD WIN has just the one win from fourteen starts and he will be moving up in grade having been runner-up when last seen, but he’s been placed all three goes over this trip and he was very unlucky not have won last time after a tough run planted wide, beaten a lip behind Another Zonda, who he meets on slightly better terms. He does dive into deep waters, but he should have the run of the race from the low draw, he goes from the foot of the handicap carrying 14lb less than his most recent outing, and winning rider, Andrea Atzeni, is back on board for the first time since January.

Dangers:
3 Silvery Breeze is a promising type that won over course and trip on his local debut last November before three runs from high draws where he was snagged back and worked home strongly in defeat, and he does have a far better draw this time, but he does return from taking a fall in February, and a market watch is advised.

4 Endeared, who picks up the services of Craig Williams who was on top when he won over course and trip in March, has subsequently ran well enough in defeat when giving a bit to do behind two nice types to grab the bronze, and has a definite chance in an open contest.

12 Beauty Glory is yet to win this season, but he drops a further 1lb in the handicap, which sees him 3lb below his last winning mark, he’s been thereabouts recently and is well drawn, as he does like to punch forward.

SUNDAY’S PLACEPOT
Sunday’s placepot will be races 5 through to 10. All up we will be playing 72 combinations (1x2x2x3x2x3), which will cost £7.20 for a 10p stake and so on. Good luck!

LEG 1 – 1 KA YING RISING

LEG 2 – 3 GENEVA 4 MASTEROFMYUNIVERSE

LEG 3 – 2 VOYAGE BUBBLE 12 MY WISH

LEG 4 – 1 GOLIATH 3 TASTIERA 11 LIBERTY ISLAND

LEG 5 – 6 STAR MAC 11 MAGNIFICENT NINE

LEG 6 – 3 SILVERY BREEZE 4 ENDEARED 14 HAROLD WIN

TIM’S BEST BETS (scale 1-5 points)
6.45am SHA TIN
4pts win SUPER EXPRESS

9.00am SHA TIN
2pts each-way MY WISH

9.40am SHA TIN
3pts win GOLIATH

Heavyliesthecrown is tipped to win the seventh race. (JC Photos).

Turffontein Inside Sunday Formguides And Selections

R1

3 BRIGHT AND BRAZEN 2 BACK FROM WAR 5 MATCHA MINT 7 SHIMMERING

Preview: 3 BRIGHT AND BRAZEN has run two good races against better opposition than this and is drawn in pole over an ideal distance. 2 BACK FROM WAR is not far off Bright and Brazen on form lines. 5 MATCHA MINT made a fair debut and should be in the shake-up. 7 SHIMMERING is by The United States out of an Oratorio mare and is a half-brother to a horse who won second time out. (3-2-5-7)

R2

4 GEOSTORM 9 VIPINGO 8 PRINCESS KEIRA 1 ALPHA WORLD

Preview: 4 GEOSTORM is by Buffalo Bill Cody and is a half-brother to city by the Sea and full brother to Buffalo Storm Cody. 9 VIPINGO has run two good races and has a good draw over a suitable trip. 8 PRINCESS KEIRA has not been disgraced against much better company and should be in the shake-up. 1 ALPHA WORLD is by One World out of a Querari mare and is drawn in pole with S’Manga Khumalo up.

R3

7 CONCORDIA 2 WINDS OF GRACE 3 MILO’S MILLIONAIRE 1 ON A JET PLANE

Preview: 7 CONCORDIA  jumps from a good draw with Gavin Lerena up and should improve over this trip. 2 WINDS OF GRACE  has a tricky draw to overcome but does have a form chance here. 3 MILO’S MILLIONAIRE has shown some form and could earn from a good draw with Craig Zackey up.  1 ON A JET PLANE disappointed last time but if that run is ignored she could earn her. (7-2-3-1)

R4

8 MIGHTY EAGLE 2 CURTISS CONDOR 6 AMANATTO 5 GOLDEN ALEXIA

Preview: 8 MIGHTY EAGLE is only a two-year-old but has run two decent races and the form of his last third place finish was franked so he could be the one to beat despite a difficult draw and having to face older horses.2 CURTISS CONDOR made a good debut and should improve with his step up in trip although he has a difficult draw to overcome. 6 AMANATTO is never far off them and from a good draw should be in the shake-up. 5 GOLDEN ALEXIA has run some decent races and from pole position should earn. (8-2-6-5)

R5

3 TOO LATE MY MATE 5 GLAMOROUS LADY 2 SOLDIER’S EYE 7 I AM REGAL

Preview: 3 TOO LATE MY MATE is drawn in pole over a suitable trip and should be the one to beat. 5 GLAMOROUS LADY is knocking on the door and has a good draw here again over a trip she should relish. 2 SOLDIER’S EYE is in good form and should be running on after being dropped out from a tricky draw. 7 I AM REGAL bounced back with a good effort last time and from a good draw could be in the shake-up. (3-5-2-1)

R6

4 SECRET RECIPE 3 WAGRAM 6 STREISAND 5 TANA MAREE

Preview: 4 SECRET RECIPE won well last time over this trip and from a fair draw off a four-point high mark and with Muzi Yeni staying aboard she could repeat. 3 WAGRAM won in her second start on the Highveld and comes into this race with a reasonable merit rating and she is drawn in pole over an ideal trip. 6 STREISAND  has been in good form and over an ideal trip is drawn well. 5 TANA MAREE won well in the maidens and was scratched last time at the start for coughing but seems to be well regarded and could be thereabouts. (4-3-6-5)

R7

5 MANZ KNIGHT 6 GAMER 4 WHISPERS OF WAR 2 CARNELO

Preview: 5 MANZ KNIGHT should have an opportunity here from a good draw over a suitable trip as he is usually thereabouts. 6 GAMER has been in good form and can run on after being dropped out from a wide draw. 4 WHISPERS OF WAR should be right there if repeating his best form over this trip. 2 CARNELO is well drawn and having gone close over 1800 meters before should be able to see out this 2000m trip. (5-6-4-2)

R8

4 HEAVYLIESTHECROWN 5 THERES A LIGHT 7 ONE PARTY

Preview: 4 HEAVYLIESTHECROWN won impressively on debut and could still be anything although she does have a tricky draw this time over the same course and distance. 5 THERES A LIGHT ran well over 1400 meters last time and from a fair draw could earn here. 7 ONE PARTY went close last time over 1100 meters and has a fair draw here so should be in the shake-up. (4-5-7)

R9

7 THERE SHE GOES 4 VITELLIUS 1 LAVA FIRE 9 SAHARA DAWN

Preview: 7 THERE SHE GOES  is in fine form but has a tough draw to overcome here. 4 VITELLIUS was facing stronger over further last season but was not disgraced over this trip after a long layoff and Gavin Lerena is an eyecatching booking. 1 LAVA FIRE has been facing stronger and with a 2,5kg claimer up off a reduced merit rating could earn here. 9 SAHARA DAWN has a form chance in this line up with Zackey up. (7-4-1-9)

Dubbelosix has been tipped to win the seventh. (Picture: Wayne Marks).

Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Monday Formguides And Selections

R1 9 SPIRIT ran a fair race last time behind All The Rage, he raced just off the speed and stayed on nicely to the line late, he is still improving with every start and must be respected here. 3 BUGLE BOY ran a lovely race on debut at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, he was still very green and managed to finish off his race nicely late, if he can build on that performance, he will have a good winning chance. 8 BIG DEAL ran fifth on debut and was beaten just over eight lengths by the winner, the form lines of that race have worked out well, he can only improve with more racing, watch him closely. It’s a race filled with many well-bred first timers, watch the market and watch them move down to the gates before making your final selections. (Brandon Bailey: 9 – 3 – 8 – 5)

R2 8 JOUEUR DE FLUTE ran a fair race in a very weak field last time, he would have needed that run back from a long rest, he has the experience and should improve quite a bit from his last run, include him into all bets. 11 CALL ME JANE has been rested for 153 days, she ran a good race on debut when finishing second behind Priscilla Maisey on the 29th of October 2024, she was then very disappointing in her next start behind Love Story where she ran just over five lengths behind the winner, she is much better than that performance, watch her closely, she can improve here. The raced runners definitely don’t have strong form, watch the first timers and watch the market again in Race 2. (Brandon Bailey: 8 – 11 – 6 – 3)

R3 2 SIERRA SAGRADA stayed on really well to the line on debut, he was very green and still managed to run just over six lengths behind North Point, he will love the step up in trip, from a good draw, he will go close to winning. 9 REAL STUNNER comes back to the track from a rest and gelding, his last two runs have been good over 1600m, if he can beat the tricky draw and he doesn’t need the run badly, he should run a big race. 8 EXALTED LOVE has been rested for 86 days and he was gelded on the 5th of February, he has run two fair races up the straight at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, he should enjoy the step up in trip on Monday afternoon, watch for a huge run from this gelding. 4 THOMAS JENKINS was gelded on the 20th of January, he might be able to sneak into the Quartet at a big price from a good draw. (Brandon Bailey: 2 – 9 – 8 – 4)

R4 1 MONT LOISIR has been in great form of late, he ran an absolute cracker last time behind Trippi’s Silk, even though he has top weight of 61.5kgs to shoulder, he has the perfect draw of 1, he loves the distance of 1400m, and jockey Richard Fourie knows him well, he will go very close to winning. 8 TRES CHIC is as honest as they come, she never runs a bad race and she tries really hard, if she can get some luck in running from a wide draw, she will have a good each way chance again. 9 ISCHYRO has been rested for 61 days, he ran a great race behind Arbitration on the 26th of February, he needs a particular ride, if the race works out for him, he will have a good money chance from a wide draw. 2 MELA STRENGTH should enjoy the 1400m trip, on his best form, he could be the value in a tricky race. (Brandon Bailey: 1 – 8 – 9 – 2)

R5 7 BOOGIEFIED won a great race on the 16th of March at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, he had a tricky draw to overcome and still managed to beat a competitive field, he was given three points for that victory, on his best form, he can easily win again. 4 GREEN GARNET finished six lengths behind Boogiefied in his last start over 1400m, he can be a tricky customer out the gates, if he jumps on terms and he can race handy from a nice draw, he will be super competitive. 8 DEVIL A SAINT caught the eye in his last run behind a smart horse at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, if he can build on that performance, he could be competitive at a decent price. 16 LANDOFTHERISINGSUN comes back to the track from a rest of 76 days, he won his maiden impressively, watch him closely, he is still improving and should be running on strongly late. (Brandon Bailey: 7 – 4 – 8 – 16)

R6 6 ONI SAN has been rested for 65 days, she absolutely took off late last time for third behind My Only Weakness, she has dropped even further in the ratings, she must have a good winning chance here. 8 LICKETY SPLIT has been rested for 93 days, ignore her last run completely, she was outclassed in the Grade 3 Summer Fling Stakes, even though she carries a big weight here, and this is on the short side for her, she will be doing her best work late. 3 MY ONLY WEAKNESS ran a shocker in her last start behind Fun Zone, she is much better than that, the cheek pieces have been fitted and she gets a nice draw, she should bounce back to her best form. 2 PILOT FLAME has been in good form of late, she will enjoy the step up in trip to 1400m, and jockey Richard Fourie has been booked to ride, include her into all bets. (Brandon Bailey: 6 – 8 – 3 – 2)

R7 4 DUBBELOSIX ran a great race out of the maidens behind Congressman on the 22nd of March at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, he is still improving, this looks to be a nice race for him to be very competitive. 3 PRIME VENTURE ran a fair race on the Poly in PE, at this level, despite the big weight of 61.5kgs on his back, he should be right there amongst the places. 6 BATON ROUGE stayed on well last time behind Wehaveasituation, he can be dangerous from the front, and he has no weight on the back, watch for a big run at a good price. 1 MY BESTIE will need to improve to win a race like this, he had no luck in running last time from a wide draw, ignore that completely, from a good draw here, he can improve and earn some money for the connections. (Brandon Bailey: 4 – 3 – 6 – 1)

R8 4 BABELICIOUS is as honest as the day is long, she stayed on exceptionally well for second behind Mai Sensation on the 16th of March, her form is good, she must have a huge winning chance in this race. 8 TRIP TO MAPUTO has been rested for 66 days, ignore her last run on the Poly in PE, now that she is back on turf up the straight at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, she will run a good race, she likes to be switched off early and then comes with a strong run late, include her into the play. 7 BACK AT THE GEORGE won well on the 15th of February, she has been rested for 72 days, she was given four points for her last win, she is still improving and must be respected. 9 MISS WORLD is much better than her last run over 1400m, the drop in trip should help her improve. (Brandon Bailey: 4 – 8 – 7 – 9)

R9 3 CLIFFSCAPE fought hard to win her maiden well on the 22nd of March at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, the form of that race has worked out well, even though she is a two-year old running against older horses, she looks extremely progressive and must have a good winning chance again. 1 POETIC PRINCESS ran on strongly late behind Electric Feels on the 22nd of March, she was only beaten just under two lengths by the winner, despite the negative of 62kgs on her back, she will be hitting the line hard with jockey Andrew Fortune. 5 VIVO PER LEI drops in trip and gets the blinkers fitted, she could be some value in this tricky race, include her into all bets. 10 TRY ME never got into the race last time from a wide draw at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, she is much better than that, watch for major improvement now that she is back up the straight at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. (Brandon Bailey: 3 – 1 – 5 – 10)

Kadizora has been tipped to win the fifth over 2200m (JC Photos).

Hollywoodbets Greyville Turf Monday Formguides And Selections

R1 Preview: TREASURE ISLAND (8) might not get an easier opportunity (baring any first timers with talent) to get it all right and is therefore the firm first choice. CRAFTY CROFTY (2) made a fair debut and can be expected to make huge improvement in this field – exacta selection. EXPLOSIVE POWER (4) could run well on debut and MISS DANON (1) can improve. (Warren Lenferna 8-2-4-1)

R2 Preview: GRIPEN (5) is well tried but comes from the Cape and brings some fair form with! His penultimate effort when 2nd at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth is particularly good. He is the first suggestion. KING CELTILLUS (3) is making huge inroads and improving with each run – strong each way chance and a huge danger to the first choice. EL CAPITAN (11) has a huge place chance and should win soon. WHITE SEAHORSE (10) is a must for the quartet. (Warren Lenferna 5-3-11-10)

R3 Preview: RANI TARABAI (4) went close last time and looks cheery ripe to go one more and win. ROYAL MERMAID (2) showed last time that her winning turn is near – strong each way chance. SHEEZAROCKET (1) can place and GLORIOUS BUTTTERFLY (6) could represent some attractive value for the quartet. (Warren Lenferna 4-2-1-6)

R4 Preview: Not the strongest field ever seen in this class 5 which makes it tough to predict the outcome. NATIONAL DREAM (3) could be teed up for a huge effort and has not been far off the action since returning from a rest. He could be the one they all have to fear the most. TWILIGHT WARRIOR (1) is a maiden but can be competitive in this field and is a must for all bets. FUTURE SAINT (5) and SACRED LILY (2) can finish in the first four. (Warren Lenferna 3-1-5-2)

R5 Preview: KADIZORA (2) is ultra-consistent and looks ready to record her next career win. She gets a neat draw and Muzi Yeni again. BASIE RAAKVAT (5) ran an attractive race last time, has solid overall form and should, again, give a very good account of himself. KING BAVARIAN (8) can finish in the first three and is a natural inclusion for the trifecta play and MOUNTAINSOFTHEMOON (1) should be in the shake-up. (Warren Lenferna 2-5-8-1)

R6 Preview: SILKY JET (9) brings solid Highveld form into the race and rates a bright win chance despite the high draw. ENGLISH PRIMROSE (2) keeps running second and is the exacta choice – another honest run can be expected. FIREBURST (7) and THESUPERNOVASTAR (4) are musts for the quartet. (Warren Lenferna 9-2-7-4)

R7 Preview: GIVERS GRACE (3) gets the services of in-form rider Andrew Fortune and brings solid form into the race. SUNSHINE DAY (2) has been sliding down in the ratings and should go close to getting it all right. FORWARD MOTION (7) clearly has ability and is one for the shortlist and ALPHABETTY (8) should be in the first four. (Warren Lenferna 3-2-7-8)

R8 Preview: VICTOR RAIL (4) ran a good race last time and can be expected to get much closer now. Bright winning chance. PURPLE POWAHOUSE (3) nearly won on the 6th of this month and should go very close again – big runner. ARVERNI PRINCESS (5) is the value for the places and should be worth including in all bets. GRIFFIN PARK (8) showed last time that he is on the comeback trail – quartet must. (Warren Lenferna 4-3-5-8)

R9 Preview: DRIVE BY (11) has solid form and despite the high draw, can win. QUENTASIA (5) is taking time for the next win – small win chance but a big place one. GLAMORZ (6) is banging loudly at the door and can go one more – serious claims. COPACABANA (10) is a must for the quartet as the value play. (Warren Lenferna 11-5-6-10)

Which post position is winless in the Kentucky Derby despite over 40 attempts?

Picture: The start of the Kentucky Derby (Credit: Mark Mahan).