The Black Knight himself, Mr Gary Player, is seen above with the  strapping Mauritzfontein Stud-bred Vercingetorix colt Holding Thumbs, whom he purchased for R1,1 million at the BSA August Sale.

“It is fair to say Mr Player bonded with this beautiful colt and we wish him great success,” said a spokesman for Mauritzfontein.

A spokesman for Mr. Player confirmed he was very excited about the colt.

Holding Thumbs is out of Fort Wood mare Withbatedbreath, who finished second in the Listed Oaks Trial and who is an own sister to Listed winner Benjan.

Withbatedbreath has had two runners to date, the once winner On Your Marks (Global View) and the twice winner Lollapalooza (Soft Falling Rain). 

Picture: Candiese Lenferna