Turf Talk Newsletter – 03 October, 2025

See guide to the

Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

near the bottom of the newsletter

Tin Pan Alley Can Strike A Chord

Tin Pan Alley can show his class on Saturday at Turffontein Inside (JC Photos)

The Highveld spring season begins in real earnest on Saturday at Turffontein Inside with the Gr 2 Betway Joburg Spring Challenge and the Gr 2 Joburg Spring Fillies an Mares Challenge, both over 1450m, and the classy Sean Tarry-trained pair TinPan Alley and Callmegetrix could be the respective horses to beat.

Tin Pan Alley is a three-year-old gelding by The United States and he was caught wide, one out and one back without cover, last time out in the Gr 1 World Pool Moment Of The Day Champion Stakes over 1600m at Hollywoodbets Greyville and yet still managed to finish a 3,70 length second to the top class Jan Van Goyen. He looks to be progressive and full of class so must have a good chance carrying just 50kg under the ever improving lightweight jockey Malesela Katjedi. He officially does not have it easy off his 113 merit rating, because that officially makes him 5,5kg under sufferance with the best weighted horse, his five-year-old stablemate Lucky Lad. However, this will be his first run as a gelding and he looks capable of rising above his current rating. Quantum Theory is also officially 5,5kg under sufferance with Lucky Lad and he is also trained by Sean Tarry and could also be involved in the finish. He has the benefit of two runs this season behind him, both of them wins, and steps up to a distance category in which he actually has a fine record with two wins an three seconds from eight starts. Luyolo Mxothwa rides from a good draw of four. Lucky Lad is known for his devastating late finish after often hitting a flat spot in the straight so considering he had a decent reappearance run at the Vaal on September 18 he must have a shout under the peerless Richard Fourie. Busstopinhounslow packs a strong finish and jumping from draw three must have a shout under last year’s winning rider of this event, Rachel Venniker. Texas Red is a 1400m specialist who can’t be ignored despite a tough draw of 13 as he is capable of putting in a classy performance over a course and distance where his record is a win and a third in two starts. He will likely try and get to the front. Musical Score will relish the course and distance and he is just half-a-kilogram under sufferance with his three-year-old contemporary Tin Pan Alley, so he must be considered from pole position with first-time cheekpieces, althouh he returns from a three month layoff. Choisaanada should do well this season, but he will likely need this run from a wide draw. Those are the horses that make most appeal.

In the Gr 2 Joburg Spring Fillies and Mares Challenge the Tarry-trained Callmegetrix will have a fine chance from a plum draw of three under Mxothwa. She is having her third run of the season and won the first of them, the Listed Off To Stud Stakes at Hollywoodbets Greyville over 1600m, before finishing strongly last time out over this course and distance to be beaten 0,90 lengths by the decent Argo Alley at level weights and 2,2 lengths ahead of Texas Red receiving 8kg. She carries 59,5kg and is officially 3kg under sufferance with the best weighted VJ’s Angel. The latter is a Gr 1 winner but is full of quirks and not reliable. However, she ran a good third last time out in the Gr 2 Gold Bracelet over 2000m at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Gold Cup day. She has a fair draw of six under in-form Calvin Habib and should go close if producing her best. Callmegetrix’s stablemate Roeo Drive has class and on pedigree should get this trip so has a chance, although sheis 5,5kg under sufferance with the best weighted and has a tough draw. Three-year-old Anchorage is officially way out at he weights but beat Alpine Jet comfortably last time over 1200m and the form was franked in eyecatching style. The Vercingetorix filly should handle the step up in trip and is an exciting prospect. Willy Meet Again has plenty of potential and is course and distance suited and drawn in pole. but does return from a seven month layoff. Olivia’s Way is the second best weighted horse but would prefer further and has a wide draw to overcome. Minogue has plenty of class and from draw seven under Richard Fourie has to be considered.

In an earlier intriguing Conditions Plate event over the same course and distance the classy pair Confederate and Greaterix could fight it out.

It should be a great day’s racing.

Callmegetrix Can Be The Spring Queen

Callmegetrix has been tipped to win the Gr 2 Betway Joburg Spring Fillies And Mares Challenge (JC Photos)

Turffontein Inside Saturday Formguides And Selections

2 WITCHING HOUR 1 CODEWORD 8 LANTERI 7 KENSAL GREEN

Preview: 2 WITCHING HOUR has been knocking on the door and from a good draw should be right there.1 CODEWORD disappointed a bit last time but clearly needs further than 1200m so will relish the step up in trip and with a 4kg claimer up must have a chance. 8 LANTERI did well on Tuesday on debut to finish third and if she comes on from the run she will have a good chance here from pole position.7 KENSAL GREEN has shown enough to date to earn. (2-1-8-7)

1 OLYMPIAN GOLD 9 THOONSIL 10 WAR SUMMIT 2 CARNARVON

Preview: 1 OLYMPIAN GOLD has Richard Fourie up from pole position and could be the one to beat. 9 THOONSIL beat War Summit on debut and should be in the shake up. 10 WAR SUMMIT ran a good third last time and the form has been franked. 2 CARNARVON has the form to earn. (1-9-10-2)

6 MATROOSBERG 4 PEREGRINE FALCON 3 BAY EMPIRE 5 PRINCE OF KILDARE

Preview: 6 MATROOSBERG won well last time out and looks to have scope for further improvement, so could be an interesting runner here off an 82 rating but he does have a tough draw. 4 PEREGRINE FALCON is knocking on the door and should go close. 3 BAY EMPIRE is in good form and should be a contender here too. 5 PRINCE OF KILDARE has the form to do well from a good draw. (6-4-3-5)

4 CONFEDERATE 3 GREATERIX 5 MONEY HEIST 1 BARBARESCO

Preview: 4 CONFEDERATE can bounce back from his disappointing July run by going close in this event from a good draw. 3 GREATERIX should relish this trip as one who seemed to be stretched by a mile at the highest level last season, but he hasn’t run for seven months. 5 MONEY HEIST won well last time and does have a bit of a wide draw here, but does have some class. 1 BARBARESCO is probably ideally distance suited and can do better than last time, but does have a tricky draw.(4-3-5-1)

10 MIAMI MOUNTAIN 9 ROMILLY 5 ZALATORIS 1 ARISTOTLE

Preview: 10 MIAMI MOUNTAIN won well second time out and from pole position should be right there. 9 ROMILLY impressed on debut and could be anything and is well drawn here. 5 ZALATORIS needs to overcome a wide draw, but ended last season by winning a Gr 2 over this trip, 1 ARISTOTLE has plenty of class and returns from a six month layoff, so should do well over this too sharp trip running fresh. (10-9-5-1)

2 CALLMEGETRIX 4 VJ’S ANGEL 6 RODEO DRIVE 10 ANCHORAGE

Preview: 2 CALLMEGETRIX is in good form and from a good draw should go close. 4 VJ’S ANGEL Vijay’s Angel bounced back with a good runlast time and if at her best she could go close. 6 RODEO DRIVE ran a cracker last time to win, but does have a wide draw here. 10 ANCHORAGE’s form has been franked, so she is an interesting three-year-old runner, although it will be officially tough for her at the weights. (2-4-6-10)

12 TIN PAN ALLEY 4 QUANTUM THEORY 2 LUCKY LAD 10 BUSSTOPINHOUNSLOW

Preview: 12 TIN PAN ALLEY looks to be full of class and has a good draw. 4 QUANTUM THEORY is in fine form and although the trip might stretch him a bit, he is well drawn and could make a bold bid. 2 LUCKY LAD could be running on and is another Terry horse to take note of here. 10 BUSSTOPINHOUNSLOW is capable of a strong finish and from a good draw should be running on. (12-4-2-10)

4 PERFECT MIRACLE 2 PRETTY PERSUASIVE 3 A BIT OF CLASS 5 PRINCESS KEIRA

Preview: 4 PERFECT MIRACLE won easily on debut and the form has been franked so he looks to have exciting potential. 2 PRETTY PERSUASIVE has won two out of three and also looks to be going places so can be involved from pole position. 3 A BIT OF CLASS ran a cracker in a Gr 1 at the end of last season and from a good draw should be right there. 5 PRINCESS KEIRA was not disgaraced last time and has some useful form so might earn. (4-2-3-5)

3 READ ALL ABOUT IT 5 OMBUDSMAN 10 FRERE JACQUES

Preview: 3 READ ALL ABOUT IT has a wide draw to overcome but looks to have ability and if it pans out he could be in the shakeup. 5 OMBUDSMAN ran well to win last time and from pole position with Richard Fourie up he could be a contender. 10 FRERE JACQUES won his maiden easily and the form has worked out quite well so he could do well from a good draw. (9-3-5-10)

Place Accumulator: (R216)
Leg 1: 6,4
Leg 2: 4,3
Leg 3: 10,9
Leg 4: 2,4,6
Leg 5: 12
Leg 6: 4,2,3
Leg 7: 3,5,10

Pick 6: (R486)
Leg 1: 4,3
Leg 2: 10,9,5
Leg 3: 2,4,6
Leg 4: 12,4,2
Leg 5: 4,2,3
Leg 6: 3,5,10

Jackpot: (R81)
Leg 1: 10,9,5
Leg 2: 2,4,6
Leg 3: 12,4,2
Leg 4: 4,2,3

Best Bet:
Race 7: 12

Value Bet:
Race 3: 6

Scottish Kiss For An On The Nose Victory

Scottish Kiss has been tipped to win the 3rd race (Picture: Wayne Marks)

Hollywoodbets Durbanville Sunday formguides and selections

R1 1 CALL OF THE KAROO has run two great races in succession, she has the perfect draw of one on Sunday, if she can build on her recent form, she will be very hard to beat here. 3 RUBY REX has been rested for 145 days, she is super consistent, if she doesn’t need the run badly on Sunday, she will definitely be amongst the places, include her into all bets. 4 CRAZY LITTLE THING ran a lovely race last time from a wide draw behind Marketa on the 3rd of September, she stayed on nicely for fourth, if she can bring that form to the races again, she will be right there in the places. 8 STORMIN ATTACK was well beaten on debut behind Lyrical Gangster, even though she found betting support, she never travelled early, and finished last on the 13th of September at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, hopefully she can improve and sneak into the Quartet at a decent price. Watch the first timers closely. (Brandon Bailey: 1 – 3 – 4 – 8)

R2 4 RED WAVE disappointed terribly last time, he stopped badly late when finishing just over eleven lengths behind Smart Horse on the 7th of September, he now drops in trip to 1000m, and he gets a good draw, there is no doubt that he can bounce back to his best form and go very close to winning. 9 SICILY returned to the races in great style on the 13th of September, it was his first run back after a long break, he really caught the eye late finishing quickly for second behind Lyrical Gangster, unfortunately the wide draw here will make it tough for him, but he will be running on strongly late. 10 CARIBBEAN GOLD ran a top race on debut, she showed good speed early, and then stayed on beautifully for third on the 13th of September, she is a lovely looking filly that will improve big time, if she can beat the tricky draw, she can certainly go very close to winning. 1 SIMBINE has been rested and gelded, he has been very consistent, watch him closely, if he handles the track, from a good draw, he will be competitive. (Brandon Bailey: 4 – 9 – 10 – 1)

R3 7 SCOTTISH KISS quickened up like a smart horse to win a good race on the 13th of September, he was given six points for that impressive win, he looks progressive and must have a good winning chance again, include him into all bets. 5 AIR RAID ran a fair race behind Jet Force on the 3rd of September at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, he was only beaten just over two lengths in a warm race, he could bounce back to his best form now that he has dropped in trip to 1250m. 2 OLIVER ran a cracker behind Scottish Kiss on the 13th of September, he ran third and was only beaten two lengths at the wire, at the weights, from a good draw, he must have a serious winning chance. 4 GIMMELIGHTNING can never be ignored, he finished like a train for third last time behind Jet Force, on his best form, he can certainly trouble them in the finish. It’s a tricky race where many have chances. (Brandon Bailey: 7 – 5 – 2 – 4)

R4 8 AMAYAH absolutely took off late to run a super race behind Mighty Mary on the 7th of September, she was just off the speed early, and she finished powerfully to run second, if she gets some luck in running from a tricky draw on Sunday, she can definitely win. 1 LADY VERITAS has been rested for 115 days, she ran a good race behind Ocotillo on the 12th of June, she made up good ground late for third from a long way back, from a good draw, with the apprentice taking off 4kgs, she must be respected. 10 NICCI’S LAW ran a super race last time, she absolutely loved the step up in trip to 1400m, she ran third just behind Amayah on that occasion, if she can beat the draw with no weight on her back, she will have a serious winning chance. 7 LARK’S SONG will love the step up in trip to 1400m, she ran a fair race on debut behind Playful Joules on the 27th of August, the race didn’t exactly work out for her, and she still managed to run just over three lengths behind the winner, if she has made any improvement at home, she can finish amongst the places. It’s a tricky race, go wide in all your bets. (Brandon Bailey: 8 – 1 – 10 – 7)

R5 2 RARE EARTH has run two brilliant races in succession, she stayed on nicely for second last time behind Beautiful Side on the 9th of September, she is improving with every start, from a good draw, she must have a big winning chance in this field. 6 HEAVENLY MAFIA has run some fair races in her career to date, she finished just over four lengths behind Red Coral on the 7th of September at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, she now steps up in trip to 1800m, hopefully that will unlock further improvement in her form. 7 HOMING PIGEON had absolutely no luck in running on the 13th of September, she was drawn wide and she just battled to get into the race early, she should enjoy the step up in trip, watch her closely, she will be doing some good work late at a decent price. 5 VIVO PER LEI stayed on well behind Sesame on the 13th of September, she was only beaten just over three lengths at the line, if she can build on that performance, she can finish in the places. (Brandon Bailey: 2 – 6 – 7 – 5)

R6 13 KING’S QUEST finished really well for second behind Better Man on the 3rd of September, he carried a big weight on that occasion, and he took off late to get nailed on the line by a very nice horse, unfortunately the wide draw on Sunday will make it tough for him, but he is a smart horse packed with lots of ability, if he gets some luck in running, he will be right there in the finish. 3 HEAL AND SOUL enjoyed the step up in trip to 2000m on the 30th of August, he won a great race, he was only given two points for that victory, from a neat draw, he will be competitive. 4 MASTER OF PARIS returned to form nicely last time, he was doing some good work late behind Heal And Soul, he will be cherry ripe to go one better from a good draw, watch him closely. 10 ELEGANT NOBLE stayed on well for third in the same race as Heal And Soul and Master Of Paris last time, he likes to race up on speed, if he gets some luck in running from a tricky draw, he could make them all work for victory. (Brandon Bailey: 13 – 3 – 4 – 10)

R7 6 AFRIQUE has been rested for 68 days, he quickened up smartly to win extremely well on the 29th of July, he was given seven points for that impressive win, he will be just off the speed early, and he will be running on strongly late, even though he has gone up in the ratings, he will be competitive. 9 CHASINGTHERAINBOW needed his last run badly from a long break, he got going when the race was over on the 13th of September, he finished fourth and was beaten just under two lengths by Pinot Grigio, the yard thinks highly of this gelding, he might just need one more before we see him at his brilliant best, but he will be storming home late, watch him closely. 1 AVERSATOR has been rested for 120 days, he ran a top race in the Listed Gatecrasher Stakes, he finished powerfully to run second behind Malmesbury Missile on the 7th of June, he should get the run of the race from a neat draw, include him into all bets. 4 PLEASE BE TRUE disappointed on the 27th of August behind Voorloopertjie, even though he ran fourth, he wasn’t really making up any ground on the winner, he is much better than that performance, if he bounces back to his best form, he can win a race like this. (Brandon Bailey: 6 – 9 – 1 – 4)

R8 8 DEMANDING DAVE won his maiden very well on the 7th of September at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, he showed good speed early, and he quickened away from his rivals impressively to win by just under three lengths at the line, even though this field is stronger, and he is drawn wide, he is packed with ability, if he gets some luck in running, he will go close to winning again. 2 MAURITIUS KESTREL has dropped nicely in the ratings, he ran a good race behind Elusive Winter on the 3rd of September, he gets a good draw on Sunday, and he gets 4kgs off his back, his chances must be respected. 9 RATTLESNAKE ran a cracker last time behind Sardinia Bay, he finished second and was beaten just under two lengths at the line, the wide draw here will make it tricky for him, but he will be doing some good work late. 4 MARKETA won her race in style on the 3rd of September at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, she is very quick, with no weight on her back, she can certainly win again. (Brandon Bailey: 8 – 2 – 9 – 4)

R9 10 IRELAND FOREVER made up good ground late to run a terrific race behind Steadfast on the 22nd of September, he was almost last when they turned for home, and he finished powerfully to run third in a driving finish, again he is drawn poorly, if he gets some luck in running, he could easily go on and win the lucky last. 8 SARDINIA BAY quickened away from his rivals impressively last time, he is a lovely looking horse with a great action, he was given five points for his win on the 7th of September, he is very fast, if he gets into a good position early from a wide draw, he can definitely win again. 3 ALL ABOUT AL returned to form nicely behind Sardinia Bay on the 7th of September, he ran third and was beaten just over two lengths, if he can build on that performance from a neat draw on Sunday, he should be amongst the places. 4 LOVE SHACK ran a good race last time, she would have needed that run from a long break, she ran second behind Inside Voice on the 3rd of September, if she has made the necessary improvement back at home, she could sneak into the Quartet. (Brandon Bailey: 10 – 8 – 3 – 4)

Ambiance Stud Offer Eight Classy Lots At Two-year-old Sale

Ambiance Stud’s Dr Marianne Thomson (hat on) continues to breed top-class thoroughbreds (Picture Supplied)

Already the breeder of champions, namely, Al Nitak and Royal Victory, Marianne is also responsible for breeding current smart performers She’s My World, George Handel, and Royal Kailani.

Ambiance will be offering an eight strong draft at the upcoming Two-Year-Old Sale at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, and Marianne picked out the following lots of particular interest:

Lot 17: Musk Jet – Futura – Jetano (filly):

Out of a daughter of one of my old favourites, State Coach. I am very pleased with this filly, she is very classy looking with a good walk and is nicely grown. This is a consistently strong distaff side.

She is correct and has a lovely temperament.

Lot 92: Trendy Vibe – Erupt -Trendy Babe (filly):

Out of a winning half-sister to Tiger’s Touch, this is a typically powerful looking Erupt filly with plenty in the engine room! She is strong, compact and walks like she’s going somewhere. She’ll be brave and bold.

Lot 2: Fourth Of July – The United States – Gimmegifts (colt):

I’m so pleased with how this colt has grown, he is well developed and strong and walks with purpose.

He has a lovely quarter and a good strong shoulder. Only a second foal for the mare, her first is now a winner.

Lot 62: Miss Prosperity – The United States – Red and Gold (filly):

From the family of Pomodoro, this looks like a filly with a future, she is beautifully put together and walks well. Although the dam never ran, she is from such a strong female line and as a first foal, I’m delighted.

For more information on this draft, please contact Marianne on (082) 557 1442

All horses purchased off the RCS Two-Year-Old Sale qualify for the RCS Slipper. The Slipper is run over 1200m for qualifying 2yo graduates of Race Coast Sales. This lucrative race will be run in mid-April for a purse of R3 Million in 2026 at Hollywoodbets Greyville.

Sha Tin Saturday Meeting Comprehensive Guide

Bulb General has been tipped to win Race 9 (Picture: HKJC)

Sha Tin Saturday Formguides, Selections And Best Bets

Sha Tin on Saturday 4 October
by He Jiong

Hong Kong racing returns to Sha Tin on Saturday, 4 October, for an exciting 10-race fixture with highly competitive action expected throughout the day.

Talented sprinter BULB GENERAL looks set to complete a hat-trick in the Class 3 Handicap over 1200m at Sha Tin this Saturday.

After an easy maiden win in Class 4 two starts ago, BULB GENERAL defied a rise in class to score back-to-back victories last time out. Settling closer to the speed, the son of Embellish showed a powerful turn of foot in the straight, drawing away to win by 1.5 lengths over this track and distance — even after being eased by his rider in the final stages.

Clearly a horse on the up, BULB GENERAL faces no tougher assignment this week in Class 3. If he replicates his last performance, he should be hard to beat once again.

All-Weather specialist MOJAVE DESERT looks primed to secure back-to-back victories when he lines up in the Class 2 Handicap over 1650m at Sha Tin this Saturday.

The consistent galloper has an impressive record on the surface, returning three wins and four placings from 11 attempts. Last start, he relished the same track and trip, settling in midfield before unleashing a sustained run from the 400m to draw clear and score by 1.75 lengths.

Now stepping up in grade to Class 2, MOJAVE DESERT finds himself well treated at the weights and appears ideally placed to continue his progression. On exposed form, he shapes as the horse they all have to beat.

Track Spy
Video Stars
Race 4 – 12 STRATHPEFFER
After an awkward jump last start, he was forced to settle off the speed in the early stages. Despite the slow tempo, he finished strongly, crossing the line fifth over this track and distance, just 2.75 lengths from the winner.
If he jumps cleanly this week, he should map closer to the speed and could prove highly competitive.

Race 5 – 1 KING PROFIT
He was last seen finishing a credible fifth in January, closing off strongly in a slowly run 1200m contest at Happy Valley. However, he pulled up lame after the race, which explains the long absence.
Having delivered a solid recent trial, he now looks primed to produce a commendable first-up performance in a field without much depth.

Sectional Stars
RACE 3 – 3 FIGHTING MACHINE
He showed improvement back in Class 4 last time out, travelling off the speed and running on strongly to finish sixth over 1400m on a rain-affected track. The switch to the AWT surface, where he boasts a reliable 62.5% Top 3 strike rate, should further enhance his winning chances.

RACE 6 – 1 BEAUTY GLORY
In contrast to his usual positive racing style, he came from well back to finish fifth over this distance, recording the third-fastest final 400m in 23.94 seconds. If he draws a better gate this week, he is likely to resume his usual frontrunning style, making him one to watch closely.

He Jiong’s Selections
R1. 4-2-7-12
R2. 1-2-3-7
R3. 3-4-5-9
R4. 12-6-1-13
R5. 1-3-11-6
R6. 1-4-10-9
R7. 1-9-7-4
R8. 12-7-1-5
R9. 3-2-1-4
R10. 3-4-8-9

Betting Strategy:
R1 #4 Each-Way
R2 #1 Win
R4 #12 Each-Way
R9 #3 Win

Race 1: Night Purosangue turned in an impressive recent trial on the AWT surface, and should run well having dropped some rating points. Spangle Fortune highly suited by the switch back to the All-Weather track and commands respect despite the wide draw. Viva Chaleur caught the eye with a fast-finishing fifth at this track two runs back, and could improve after a mediocre effort last time. Cool Blue appears well placed at the weights and should be in the mix. Euro Rocks flashed home late into fourth over 1200m last start, and a Top 3 finish wouldn’t surprise if he sees out the mile.

Race 2: Only U appears overdue for a win after two minor placings, and from a better draw, he is poised to make amends. Circuit Fiery another galloper on the verge of breaking through, he could be hard to run down if he crosses early from a wide draw. My Flying Angel stormed home to score in style last start, and looks well placed for a double in Class 5. Island Golden capable but unpredictable, he could cause an upset and is worth considering as a value choice. Draco caught the eye running home powerfully last time out, despite being held up at a crucial stage.

Race 3: Fighting Machine showed signs of regaining form last start, and the return to the AWT surface, where he previously went close in Class 3, should be positive. Reliable Profit with a strong turn of foot, he will make his presence felt late if the pace suits. Fashion Legend had genuine excuses last start (race wide) and can improve with Purton aboard. Sight Supreme well rated to produce another encouraging effort after showing improvement last start. Precision Goal led from start to finish last time and remains a chance despite the weight increase.

Race 4: Strathpeffer finished strongly into fifth in a quality race last start, and with a favourable draw, he shapes as a leading con- tender. Audacious Pursuit has trialled well for his return and could surprise at value first-up. Fun Together resumes off an eye-catching trial win and should run well fresh, given his solid record in this class. Beauty Missile finished strongly in a slowly run race last start and is well weighted to make an impact here. Roman Crown has been in consistent form recently but the wide draw poses a challenge.

Race 5: King Profit trialled well for his return, and based on his previous efforts in Class 3, he should play a key role in this race, especially with the apprentice claim. Decision Link caught the eye with a slashing third on debut, though aided by a fast tempo, and looks one to follow. California Blitz his recent efforts have been encouraging and he looks capable of breaking through anytime. Lahore has placed three times from five starts and should be highly competitive if he handles the rise in trip. Awesome Treasure has tactical speed and could be tough to catch under the right race shape.

Race 6: Beauty Glory attacked the line strongly late last start, and from a low draw, he is likely to revert to his usual positive racing style and could be hard to run down. Etalon Or overdue for a maiden win and must be rated a strong contender in this field. Better And Better received market support last start, and looks one to keep an eye on. Super Universal raced on the speed and stuck on well for third last time out. With added experience, he should deliver a strong performance again. Fight Time scored a tenacious win in Class 5 last start and remains a chance with the apprentice claim.

Race 7: Stellar Express finished a meritorious fourth in Class 1 last start, and with a massive drop in class, he is primed for another win despite carrying top weight. Wonderstar a dangerous frontrunner, he will dictate on his own terms up front and give them something to chase. Metro Power made all in emphatic fashion last start and looks poised for back-to-back wins in Class 3. We Are Hero returned to his best last time out and boasts an impressive first-up record. Fast Responder has drawn well over the straight course and looks set to continue his strong run.

Race 8: Mojave Desert has been in career-best form and is well weighted to secure a double, following an easy win in Class 3. Tal- ents Ambition an AWT specialist, he resumes off a solid trial and should run well fresh. Chill Chibi blessed with an explosive turn of foot, he is chasing for a hat-trick and must be respected despite the wide draw and top weight. Telecom Fighters a quirky frontrunner, he could hang in there all day on his day. Soleil Fighter placed five times from six starts in this class, and must be included for exotic bets.

Race 9: Bulb General a highly promising 4YO, he has won his last two starts in emphatic fashion and looks the standout of the day. The Boom Box the drop in distance should work in his favour, making an improved first-up effort look imminent. Chateauneuf boasts a strong first-up record and a Top 3 finish wouldn’t surprise, despite meeting a couple of talented rivals. Infinite Resolve had vet excuses last start and could sneak into the placings at long odds this time. Lo Pan Spirit his last-start effort was better than it reads, given the horrid trip, and he could improve with a smoother run.

Race 10: Joy Of Spring stepping up to a more suitable distance, he must be considered a leading contender after a fast-finishing first-up effort. Gentlemen Legacy has shown consistent form in Class 3 and looks poised for a double after a strong win last time out. Wrote A New Page possesses versatility in running and will chase a fourth straight win here. Aestheticism with added fitness, he could prove a value choice second-up in this wide-open field. Cambridge resuming off a break, he has trialled well and looks one to follow first-up, given his impressive form at the end of last season.

Tony Peter's Axel Collins/You're My Sunshine Case Finalised

The Axel Collins and You’re My Sunshine case caused a big rumpus two years ago, but was swiftly concluded today.

The NHA published the following press release:

INQUIRY – TRAINER A P PETER

The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (the NHA) confirms that at an Inquiry commenced at its offices in Johannesburg on 12 October 2023, Trainer Mr A P Peter was charged with a contravention of Rule 73.2.7 and Rule 10.5.14.

The particulars being that he was the Trainer responsible for AXEL COLLINS and YOURE MY SUNSHINE, when a specimen collected from these horses at his Racing Stables at the Turffontein Racecourse on 24 July 2023, disclosed upon analysis the presence of Lidocaine, a local anaesthetic classified as a Class 2 prohibited substance, the administration of which, was not accurately recorded as a treatment record in a Veterinary Treatment Register (VTR).

Lignocaine is a local anaesthetic commonly used in horses to numb specific areas for minor procedures or to provide nerve blocks during lameness examinations.

The Inquiry continued on 13 October 2023 and 6 November 2023.

Today, 3 October 2025, the Inquiry Board accepted an Admission of Guilt from Mr A P Peter in the amount of R15 000 (Fifteen Thousand Rand), in full and final settlement of the matter.

In determining the above penalty, careful consideration was given to the class of substance involved, the Trainer’s record of prior prohibited substance contraventions within the past five years, the concentration of the substance detected in the specimen, and the fact that both horses were withdrawn from the race meeting on 27 July 2023 in terms of Rule 4.2.18.

Michael Shackleton

NHA Legal Advisor

The original two releases on this case in around August and September of 2023 are shown below:

The National Horseracing Authority confirms that, following Out of Competition Specimen Collection performed by its Officials at Randjesfontein Training Centre and Turffontein Racecourse on Monday, 24 July 2023, an investigation was conducted into the veterinary treatments of horses declared as upcoming runners.

Pending the results of the NHA Laboratory analysis, on-site observatory evidence along with evidence provided by the Officials and after careful consideration of the contents of the Veterinary Treatment Register (VTR), AXEL COLLINS, NAPOLEAN and YOURE MY SUNSHINE were withdrawn from race meeting on 27 July 2023 at 09h25, in terms of Rule 4.2.18.

The NHA Laboratory, having conducted the requisite screening, has confirmed that specimens collected from AXEL COLLINS and YOURE MY SUNSHINE, revealed upon analysis the presence of four (4) prohibited substances, of which one (1) substance was not recorded in the Trainer’s VTR. An Inquiry will be opened into the one (1) substance that was NOT recorded for each of the respective two horses.

The investigation thus far has raised a host of serious concerns in relation to horse welfare, including the liberal and regimented use of medications and/or treatments administered to horses during the days preceding racing and the accuracy of the recordal of such treatment in the relevant VTR. It appears that this practice has become widespread and therefore not limited to an individual Veterinarian or Trainer.

The NHA advocates a fair and level playing field for all horses and, most importantly, for only fit and healthy horses to participate in races. The initial findings of this investigation have raised a myriad of alarming concerns and the NHA is in the process of conducting further investigations into practices, methodologies, mitigatory procedures, as well as considering possible amendments to the Rules, in order to eliminate such practices that some stakeholders wrongly believe to be acceptable and humane!

Follow up press release to the above is shown below:

Following the Press Release on 4 August 2023 (below), concerning Out of Competition (OOC) specimen collection that took place at Randjesfontein Training Centre and Turffontein Racecourse on 24 July 2023, the NHA confirms that the respective parties associated with AXEL COLLINS and YOURE MY SUNSHINE exercised their rights in terms of the Rules and requested that the respective reference specimens be sent to a Laboratory for confirmatory analysis.

As a result of a lack of consensus pertaining to the selection of a single confirmatory laboratory, the Chief Executive, pursuant to the provisions of Rule 75.7, nominated the Hong Kong Jockey Club Racing Laboratory to conduct the confirmatory analysis on the said specimens.

In terms of the Rules, the reference specimens were dispatched to the nominated confirmatory laboratory on 21 August 2023, and this process was witnessed by Trainer Mr. A P Peter, his legal representative and other parties. On 25 August 2023, the Hong Kong Jockey Club Racing Laboratory confirmed having received the reference specimens.

The NHA received written confirmation from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Racing Laboratory on Wednesday, 13 September 2023, that the specimens taken from AXEL COLLINS and YOURE MY SUNSHINE were analysed and the presence of the prohibited substance, Lidocaine was found to be present, unequivocally confirming the initial findings of The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa’s Laboratory.

An Inquiry will be held regarding this matter on a date to be confirmed.

Susan Rowett Asks Concerned Stakeholders To Explain

Mrs Susan Rowett – asking questions (Pic – Chase Liebenberg)

Former NHA Chairperson Susan Rowett contacted Turf Talk and the Sporting Post earlier this week in respect of a communication published by ourselves on 1 October, titled “Concerned Stakeholders Response to Susan Rowett Letter”.

Susan Rowett wrote:

I refer to your respective publications of a communication on October 1st titled “Concerned Stakeholders Response to Susan Rowett Letter”.

Through your publications, perhaps you could remind the stakeholder group (and thereby also give correct information to readers) of the e-mail letters which occurred between the meeting of September 16th and the press release of the resignations – which for some reason they omit to mention in the above referenced communication.

The stakeholder group claim that their door was not shut. Does the group not remember their letter to the NHA board on 17th September? In this letter they stated emphatically that “while the Stakeholders are open to engagement and corrections from the NHA, material changes to the (proposed) Constitution will not be considered” and that “should there be any signs of delay to the process, we will not hesitate to submit the formal requisition notice”.

The stakeholder group further state “instead all that was received was the press release…”. Does the group not remember the NHA response they received on 29th September?

Mrs Rowett’s points were put to the Concerned Stakeholders group for comment.

Speaking on behalf of Race Coast, Basil Thomas pointed out that the communication mentioned by Mrs Rowett above (i.e. Does the group not remember the NHA response they received on 29th September?) had been strictly confidential.

He said, “We will certainly not be sharing confidential correspondence that was exchanged between the NHA and the Concerned Stakeholders. Perhaps, Mrs Rowett needs to be publicly reminded of the footer that appeared on her email of 29 September – which reads ‘This e-mail contains privileged and/or confidential information and is intended only for the named recipients. Any unauthorised dissemination or copying is prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error or are not the named recipient, please notify the send (sic) immediately and destroy the e-mail”.

“As your readers will by now be aware, the NHA has a new, fully constituted Board of Directors. The Concerned Stakeholders will allow that Board to consider if any public response to Mrs Rowett is appropriate.”