Splittheeights wins the TAB Gauteng Guineas from Grand Empire and One Eye On Vegas, although the latter was later demoted to fourth after an objection on behalf of Trust (JC Photos)
The one-two in the Gr 2 TAB Gauteng Guineas, Splittheeights and Grand Empire, did look a bit overrated after the race at 121 and 120 if taking into account the form of both Grand Empire and Yippee Kay Yay against exposed older horses in handicaps and an independent panel has upheld Mathew de Kock’s appeal against the new merit ratings of a number of horses in the race.
NHA Press Release
An independent panel constituted in terms of Clauses 20.3 and 21.3 of the NHA Constitution and consisting of Messrs K Miedema, J Vermaak and A Sewpersad was convened on 17 February 2026 to consider a Merit Rating Appeal lodged by Trainer Mr Mathew de Kock against the merit rating increases relating to SPLITTHEEIGHTS, GRAND EMPIRE, ONE EYE ON VEGAS and YIPPEE KIYAY, following their performances in the TAB GAUTENG GUINEAS (Grade 2) on 7 February 2026, at Turffontein Racecourse, where they were allocated the following merit ratings:
SPLITTHEEIGHTS – 97>121 (24 points)
GRAND EMPIRE – 108>120 (12 points)
ONE EYE ON VEGAS – 106>118 (12 points)
YIPPEE KIYAY – 101>117 (16 points)
The Appeal Panel was of the opinion that the line horse which was utilised, TIN PAN ALLEY, was not optimal under the circumstances and that GRAND EMPIRE and ONE EYE ON VEGAS should have been jointly utilised as the line horses on the day.
Accordingly, the merit rating of SPLITTHEEIGHTS has been adjusted to 109, GRAND EMPIRE’s and ONE EYE ON VEGAS’s merit ratings have been restored to 108 and 106 respectively, and YIPPEE KIYAY’s merit rating has been adjusted to 105.
The Appeal was upheld and the deposit fee is to be refunded to Trainer Mr Mathew de Kock.
Enquiries:
Michael Shackleton
Legal Executive
