The Brett Crawford-trained Twice Over colt Champion Warrior impressed on debut when green and running on well over 1250m at Hollywoodbets Durbanville and he was even more impressive yesterday over the same course and distance running in a handicap off an 86 merit rating.
Luyolo Mxothwa had him beautifully relaxed in a handy enough position after jumping from draw three.
In the straight the three-year-old colt moved into the lead and for a moment looked like he would come under pressure from a couple of others who were making runs.
However, he pulled away from them effortlessly under a hands and heels ride to win by two lengths.
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The Klawervlei Stud-bred colt is out of a Fastnet Rock maiden, who is out of a Sadlers Wells mare who won a Listed race over a mile and two furlongs.
So, the pedigree suggests Champion Warrior would definitely prefer further.
Owner A Gujadhur will be excited about his prospects as both a Grade 1 R2 million Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas and R7.5 million WSB Gold Rush contender.
Mr Gujadhur is not a ticket holder for the Gold Rush, but he looks sure to be approached by a “prospector” or two after today’s impressive performance.