The first Hollywoodbets Durban July log is out and does not contain any major surprises.
However, there is one question which should be asked.
Olivia’s Way could be considered unlucky to not be in the top 20 having won a Gr 2 event over 2000m and been a Gr 1 runner up over 1800m and she was fourth in the Gr 1 SA Derby. She is also higher rated than the Gr 3 winner Selukwe, but the latter won a traditional Hollywoodbets Durban July pointer, the WSB 1900, and that explains his lofty position on the log.
Some of those who have not won a race as high as a Gr 2 but who are above Olivia’s Way are there because they are considerably higher merit rated through close up places in races like the WSB Met.
However, Pomodoro’s Jet’s biggest career wins are in a Listed race over 1600m and in the Grand Heritage over 1475m and in his only two races beyond a mile he finished third in an 1800m handicap off an 84 merit rating in a Middle Stakes race nearly three years ago and he finished a 3,20 length fifth in last year’s Gr 3 Splashout 2200 carrying just 52,5kg. The log panellists probably put him in the top 20 due to his highly progressive profile. However, some would say he should prove himself over ground before being put ahead of the like of the proven middle distance filly Olivia’s Way.
The log is shown n below.
