It is 32 years since a KZN-trained horse won the July and 34 years since a KZN-trained horse crossed the line first in the big race.
The Ricky Maingard-trained Space Walk inherited the race in 1994 after Surfing Home was demoted from 1st place to 5th place for the interference he caused to Pas de Quoi.
In 1992 the Dennis Drier-trained Spanish Galliard won the July fair and square.
There are five KZN-trained horse in this year’s race.
Stuart Ferrie has Gladatorian engaged, while Peter Muscutt has two runners, Isivivane and I Salute You, Gareth van Zyl has King Pelles and Frank Robinson has Mocha Blend.
Gladatrorian would be a fiitting horse to break KZN’s July drought because Stuart Ferrie was the long time assistant to Dennis Drier.
Stuart said Gladatorian was in fine shape and added he liked his draw.
He said, “I’m happy with the draw of 8, better than 16 last year. If he can be halfway down the field or a little behind halfway we will be happy.”
Gladatorian is known for his terrific turn of foot and finishing speed.
Muzi Yeni rides.
Yeni has never won the July before, but has had a second, three thirds, two fourths and two fifths.
Stuart runs Town Crier in the first race over 1600m on the poly. He is four points higher for a win over course and distance last time. He was drawn in pole for the win and is drawn two now with Serino Moodley staying aboard.
Stuart said, “He’s got a nice chance.”
He runs yard favourite Capsaicin in the second race over 1600m on the poly. Stuart said this horse only knew too speeds on the training tracks, very slow and very fast. Unfortunately, he can’t be given relaxed workouts at a good pace because he just wants to take off. Whilst this is frustrating from a training perspective he compensates for it by trying his hardest in every race. From draw ten he is likely to take the lead. Stuart said he also had “a nice chance.”
