Turf Talk Newsletter – 24 July, 2026

Ahead Of The Facts will have his work cut out to beat defending Gold Cup champion King Pelles, but he is progressive and could do it (Picture: Race Coast) 

The Gr 3 World Pool Gold Cup is the headliner at Sunday’s big meeting at Hollywoodbets Greyville, which also features three Gr1s, four Gr 2s, one Gr 3 and a Listed race.

Ahead Of The Facts could upset the favourite King Pelles in the Gold Cup.

Ahead Of The Facts is a progressive stayer who has the stamina capacity and has a devastating turn of foot. An added bonus is he has big race Richard Fourie up and he should help him find a good position from draw seven.

King Pelles comes off a magnificent third in the Hollywoodbets Durban July, proving his class. He has a fine turn of foot and proved he can carry topweight over two miles last year when winning this race, although he is now four points higher. and the July might have taken a bit out of him.

Native Ruler has proven class and proven stamina capacity up to 2400m. He is out of an SA Oaks winner and is by Vercingetorix, who has produced a Gold Cup winner, so has a shout despite a tricky draw of nine out of 13.

Master Redoute won this race two years ago and is 1,5kg better off with Ahead Of The Facts for a 0,5 length beating in the 3000m Gold Vase last time out, but the latter won that race easing up.

Shoot The Rapids was runner up two years ago despite having gone too fast. He is capable of a top class effort over this trip and with the champion jockey elect aboard has a chance despite a wide draw of 12.

Future Pearl loves this track and is top class on his day. His only placed run since winning this race three years ago was when winning at this track. This is his second run after a layoff, but he has the ability to pop up.

Holding Thumbs is a courageous Stayer. He was the runner up last year but is now 1kg worse off for last year’s 1,20 length beating by King Pelles. He needs to step up on his last run in the Gold Vase and his wide draw is concerning.

Magic Verse won the Gr 3 July consolation over 2200m in fine style. He is held by Ahead Of The Facts on 2800m form, but was continually bumped up the straight that day. He does have to prove he stays two miles though.

Continentalexpress has good staying form but was beaten 5,50 lengths in the Listed Lonsdale Stirrup Cup when stepping up to stakes company. His trainer Dean Kannemeyer has won two Gold Cups before, both at double figure odds.

Johnny The Thief finished second in the July consolation, beaten 1,40 lengths, and faces winner Magic Verse on 1,5kg worse terms. He has a stamina doubt on pedigree, but not on running style.

Jazz Cafe won her first attempt at a staying race in good style in a female Gr 3 over 2400m, beating SA Derby winner Curious Girl. She is officially 6.5kg under sufferance with King Pelles but having shown she enjoyed a big step up in trip maybe she will enjoy another big step up.

Chill In The Air is well held by Ahead Of The Facts, Master Redoute, Shoot The Rapids and Holding Thumbs on Gold Vase form and even by Continentalexpress on Lonsdale Stirrup Cup form.

They are selected in the order mentioned.

In the Gr 1 HKJC Champions Cup over 1800m Gladatorian could defend his title.

Gladatorian ran on very well off a slow pace in the Gr 1 Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge (1600m) and running in the Hollywoodbets Durban July did not stop him winning this race last year from the same draw of two.

See It Again disappointed last time in the Gold Challenge, but was in top class form before that and can be forgiven one below par run after a tough campaign. Running fresh should see him bouncing back and he can secure theEquus  Horse Of The Year award if winning putting in a top performance here from a  nice draw of three.

Eight On Eighteen was last season’s Horse Of The Year. He has had an interrupted season and his form has been well below his best, but he has been reported by jockey Richard Fourie and trainer Justin Snaith to be back to his best in workouts. If he brings his best to the course he has a fine chance.

Main Defender is the biggest outsider in the field but wouldn’t have been had he been producing his career peak performances. His 5,95 length ninth in the Gold Challenge does not tell the whole story, because he was completely taken out when moving well and looking to be in with a chance.

Legal Counsel dictated in the Gold Challenge and failed by a short-head to hold on from the top class Questioning. He was also second in the Gr 1 WSB Met over 2000m to See It Again, so has a chance if his tough run as pacesetter in the July did not take too much out of him.

The Real Prince was runner up last year and is drawn in pole again. He won the Gr 1 wfa L’Ormarins King’s Plate but he was 2,90 lengths and 0,80 lengths behind Legal Counsel and Gladatorian respectively last time out in slow run Gold Challenge from draw five out of 12. He is a big runner if producing his best.

Dave The King won this race two years ago and will be dangerous if allowed to escape as he has a run in of 800m and is hard to catch once using his giant stride to full effect. However, the opposition jockeys know him well and he seems to be declining.

Malmesbury Missile enjoys this course but has a bit to find on 1600m form and 2000m form. He could be interesting if managing to dictate at a slow pace. Gavin Lerena up is a boost to his chances.

They are selected in the order mentioned.

The Gr 1 wfa Mercury Sprint over 1200m could also see last year’s winner, Buffalo Storm Cody, defending his title.

Buffalo Storm Cody is a twice Gr 1-winning sprinter who Comes off a fine preparation over course and distance in which his big action only just failed to get him home. The weight turnaround with the winner Jet Force is in his favour now and he will also have come on from the run. He will be hard to beat if the race pans out well from a good draw.

Questioning has transformed into a truly top class sprinter-miler this season and appears to relish his racing. If relaxing from a wide draw expect an exhilarating finishing effort. He has a big chance.

Asiye Phambili is a top class sprinter who seems to get better all the time and if able to relax in a good spot from a tricky draw of seven she will be storming home. On strict form she is held by Questioning but she was used up from a high draw that day to go handy, whereas she likes to just be sat on from the off and the man who knows her best, Sean Veale is now aboard as he was last time when winning the Gr 1 SA Fillies Sprint.

Tenango ran on superbly in the Gr 3 Post Merchants over course and distance to be just a short-head behind Buffalo Storm Cody and has a fine chance on paper. He was a 1,60 length second to Buffalo Storm Cody in this race last year and now has a much better draw.

O’Tenikwa is a frontrunning sort with tremendous gatespeed who is aided by a good draw and if able to relax in front and not over race he could surprise.

Taxi To The Moon Has been in devastating form. He has just 1,90 lengths to find on Buffalo Storm Cody on 1000m form, but he has a tricky draw.

Jet Force Ran on very well to win the Gr 3 Post Merchants over course and distance but is 2kg worse off with both Buffalo Storm Cody and Tenango for half-a-length beatings. He could earn if reproducing that run.
1 Mia Moo

Mia Moo is a good sprinter but looks held by Buffalo Storm Cody and Asiye Phambili, although she could earn from pole position.

Green Diamond Has 3,20 lengths to make up on Buffalo Storm Cody on 1000m form and comes off a layoff of more than three-and-a-half months.

Cats Pajamas Was a 1,75 lengths fourth to Buffalo Storm last year from draw ten and now has draw nine, albeit in a smaller field. The field could be stronger this year though.

Cafe Culture has won a Gr 2 over this course and distance before (the Post Merchants two years ago) and is honest. His wide draw means he will have to run on from off them. He looks held by the best but could earn.

Cosmic Speed Gr 1-winning sprint miler who has the class and speed to be a threat but looks held by Buffalo Storm Cody and Taxi To The Moon on this season’s form and has a tough draw.

They are once again selected in the order of mention.

The Gr 1 World Pool Moment Of The Day Champion Stakes should be a cracking race and Prayersandpromises makes plenty of appeal.

Prayersandpromises ran on in eyecatching style after ending up last in the Gr 2 Golden Horseshoe over 1400m from a wide draw. He should enjoy the step up in trip and has a chance from a better draw.

Life In Colour is well-bred and improving, so although having a bit to find with Prayersandpromises on paper he could surprise considering how easy and impressive his win last time out was.

Erik Dubois is a big horse who is improving and the good draw and step up in trip will help. This big-striding, maturing sort is one to consider with Lyle Hewitson up.

Green Energy ran on well in the Golden Horseshoe for second from a similar draw and should relish the step up in trip. He has to be considered.

Moana is an impressive filly who is proven over the trip and with a gender allowance and a good draw she is a big runner.

Vibe Check is a top class sort who will have come on from his Golden Horseshoe win over 1400m. He likes to lead and has a slight stamina doubt on pedigree, so the wide draw opens questions.

Bachata ran on well second time out for third in the Gatecrasher over 1400m and has scope for plenty of improvement. He should be staying on after being dropped out and can earn.

Red Spice was inconvenienced at the start in the Golden Horseshoe, but stayed on well from far back. He has a slight stamina doubt on pedigree, but his running style suggests he will stay. He has a tough draw though.

Secretary Bird was running on in the Gr 2 Golden Horseshoe over 1400m and this filly has just 0,65 lengths to find on Vibe Check. She has a good draw again, but does have a slight stamina doubt on pedigree.

Viking Leader won the Listed Gatecrasher Stakes (1400m) and this Erik The Red gelding is a half-brother to Gr 1 July (2200m) winner Note To Self. He has a plum draw and must have a chance.

Tudor Rose was third in the Gr 2 Golden Slipper over 1400m against two good sorts so has a chance from pole position against the boys. She has a slight stamina concern on pedigree, but is on the up.

The Bronx Bull Second over 1200m in a handicap off a 96 rating last time when setting the pace and caught late. He is a full brother to a speedy sort and has a stamina doubt.

Kazenoyoni was used up early in the Golden Horseshoe over 1400m to overcome a wide draw and found no extra late. Capable of better and should stay the trip, but he has a tricky draw.

Better Never Ends Is capable of running on and should stay the trip, so could earn by running on afer being dropped out from a wide draw.

They are once again selected in the order of mention.

Questioning, pictured easily winning the Gr 2 Khaya Stables Diadem Stakes over 1200m, has been tipped to win the 6th race, the Gr 1 Mercury Sprint over 1200m (Picture: Wayne Marks)

Race Coast

RACE 1

Preview: ZEITZ (13) has a tough draw to negotiate but was strongly fancied to win the Hollywoodbets Durban July. It was his first try at 2200m which proved to be too far. He is back over a much more suitable trip and the blinkers are back on. He should be running at them late. ISIVIVANE (8) is back over what may prove to be a more suitable trip after a smart effort in the Hollywoodbets Durban July where he stayed on gamely for fifth place. He likes to race handy and could go all the way.  FIELD MARSHAL (3) was a touch disappointing at his last run but drops in trip and has run well against the best. He meets Zeitz on 1.5kg better terms than when last they met. TALK TO THE MASTER (1) has his first run for a new stable. He got a three-pound penalty for his game win over course and distance last time out and has the best of the draw which is a big factor in his favour.  GREEN GATEWAY (5) is 1.5kg better off with Talk To The Master on their last meeting  and Dean Kannemeyer’s runner has improved with the addition of blinkers. BETTER MAN (4) is 2kg better off with Talk To The Master where he started favourite for the race. He has a handy galloping weight and will be a contender. JP’S PALACE (12) has a tough draw to contend with but rarely misses a place. He likes to race handy but Rachel Venniker may have to change tactics from his wide gate. (Andrew Harrison: 13-8-3-1-4-5).

RACE 2

Preview: PALACE OF ARVERNIA (6) has won two of her three starts both on Hollywoodbets Greyville and was a comfortable winner in the Gr2 Golden Slipper last time out. She is smart and will be in the one to beat. OCEAN MISTRESS (11) finished just ahead of Palace Of Arvernia in the Gr1 Allan Robertson Championship but the tables were turned next time out. She also has the widest draw to contend with and although 1.5kg better off in the weights she faces a tricky task. THYME TO TALK (10) showed up well when taking on males at just her second start, leading for most of the way. That was on the poly but she shed her maiden on the turf and can feature. MENAGERIE (7) made steady improvement leading to her maiden win. She shows plenty of promise and can make the step up. Lyle Hewitson teams up with his old boss Sean Tarry with PERFECT SKY (4) who was a narrow winner last run. She does look held by Palace Of Arvernia on collateral form however, horses from this stable can never be ignored on big days. FARRARI FLAIR (3) is still a maiden but has not been disgraced when contesting Feature races and has a money chance from a handy gate. SWEET GREEN (8) has started favourite in all three of her starts and finally got it right last time out. That was her first run after a lengthy break and the form of that win has been franked.  (Andrew Harrison: 6-11-7-4-8-3)

RACE 3

Preview: Peter Muscutt could hold all the cards which could turn into a tricky affair should his runners not run up to expectations.  BENNY AND PAUL (6) looks the pick of the pair after accelerating smartly to shed his maiden in fine style. Prior to that he played second fiddle to the very highly rated Coast Of The Sun and that form could be good enough to see him home. Stable companion ST HARRY (5) is well thought of by the stable and will have needed his first run back from a break. He won his maiden in very good fashion which suggests that he has more to offer. GIMME SOME LUCK (11) is unbeaten in three and doddled in by five lengths but will need some luck from a wide gate. Fabian Habib has a second string tohis bow in CATFISH (10), a winner of his last two. However, his only poor run came when stepping up in trip. Judged on jockey bookings, Keagan de Melo will have had the pick of three rides and has elected WORLD SERIES (13) for Vaughan Marshal ahead of Sean Tarry’s runners he but will need some luck from his wide gate. US RANGER (8) comes with some smart Eastern Cape form, winning by over eight lengths last time put. The colt comes from a champion yard and a win would not be unexpected. (Andrew Harrison: 6-5-11-8-13).

RACE 4

Preview: ALICE B TOKLAS (3) found one better in Palace Of Arvernia when well supported in the market at her last start. The latter has gone back to a sprint while Sean Tarry’s filly steps up to a mile. The extra 200 should not be an issue and from a good draw she is the one to beat. ROYAL TIARA (4) has finished behind Alice B Toklas in both of her last outings but came in for a mountain of support. She ran out of steam the last bit after being up with the pace for most of the race. This will be her third run after a break and should strip at her peak. MARCHLAND (6) has been untested in her three Eastern Cape runs, winning comfortably. She is a bit of an unknow quantity as she takes on stronger here but could well prove up to the challenge. WITHIN REACH (7) will enjoy the step up in trip having won two of her three starts over 1400m. From a handy draw she will be competitive and the market could tell a tale between the two Tarry runners. IMPRESSIVE (1) is the most experienced runner in the field and has the best of the draw which will help her chances however, she was nearly three lengths back to Within Reach when last they met. DOESYOURMOTHERKNOW (5) took on males when making her course debut and lacked extra come the finish. She gets Lyle Hewitson aboard which is a plus. (Andrew Harrison: 3-4-6-7-1-5).

 

RACE 5

Preview: GREEN ENERGY (9) does not have the best of draws but was closing fast on hot favourite VIBE CHECK (14) when last they met in the Gr2 Golden Horseshoe after a tardy start. Adam Azzie’s colt will see out the extra 200m but the extra furlong could fine Vibe Check out. However, Vibe Check has exceptional speed and he comes from a smart stable and could well sew up the Equus Two-Year-Old Championship. The filly MOANA (5) faces a strong field of males but has won her last two over the distance in facile fashion. On a line through another filly, SECRETARY BIRD (4), who finished a length behind Vibe Check and Green Energy last time out, Moana must have a strong winning chance at likely decent odds. KAZENOYONI (8) has been specifically aimed at this race. He had a tough draw last time out and although his form behind Vibe Check does not stack up on paper, he can surprise. ERIC DEBOIS (2) has run two promising races from trick draws at his last two. He has started in double figure odds in all of his four starts but from a better draw he could be worth an each way punt. (Andrew Harrison: 9-14-5-8-4-3).

RACE 6

Preview: QUESTIONING (11) has a wide draw to contended with but has been in exceptional form of late from a sprint to a mile. He should put in another winning performance which should see him crowned Equus Sprint of the Year. However, he does face the country’s highest rated horse and last year’s winner BUFFALO STORM CODY (4) who recently went down narrowly to JET FORCE (5) in the Post Merchants over course and distance. He is now 2kg better off with Jet Force but the chink in his armour, although having won last year, is that he does appear at his best over a furlong shorter and faces a very much in form Questioning. The mare ASIYE PHAMBILI (7) is exceptional having won her last two including the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint beating the champion Double Grand Slam. She rarely runs a bad race. TENANGO (2) has been winless since victory in the Gr2 Golden Horse Sprint back in June last year but is showing signs of his best form at recent starts. He is better of in the weights with both Jet Force and Taxi To The Moon and has the better draw. TAXI TO THE MOON (8) has won his last three including one over course and distance. He is no stranger to big weights but will need to step up a notch to win this at level weights. (Andrew Harrison: 11-4-7-2-5-8).

RACE 7

Preview: A top field of the country’s best stayers. Last year’s winner KING PELLES (6) has hardly put a foot wrong in his build-up to this race. He was out-paced late when staying on for third in the Hollywoodbets Durban July and over this longer trip he can follow up on last year. CONTINENTALEXPRESS (2) is at the bottom of the handicap and under sufferance. However, he stays well and comes from a stable that has won this race twice before. He can upset carrying joint bottom weight. MASTER REDOUTE (11) won this race two years back and has come to hand at just the right time. He was a game second in the Gold Vase behind AHEAD OF THE FACTS (7) who is many pundits choice. Justin Snaith’s runner has also come well at the right time but is 1.5kg worse off at the weights with Master Redoute which could be telling. SHOOT THE RAPIDS (12) is seldom out of the money when sent over ground and only weakened late when a length back to Ahead Of The Facts and Master Redoute. He is 1 kg better off with the winner. ENFLAME (3) is a seasoned stayer  having won the Gold Bowl over the distance beating Shoot The Rapids.  He is 4kg worse off on that run but cannot be left out of any calculations. HOLDING THUMBS (13) hit a purple patch last year at this time but always found King Pelles just too good, finishing second in this race. His recent form has not been inspiring but he is as game as they come and stays well. MAGIC VERSE (5) gave Zac Lloyd his first winner in South Africa when winning the Gr3 Campanajo 2200. However, he goes this trip for the first time which is a concern.  Andrew Harrison: 6-2-11-12-7-3-13).

RACE 8

Preview: THE REAL PRINCE (1) has had a solid preparation into this race and will strip at his peak. He will be out to turn the tables on last year’s winner GLADATORIAN (2) as he was a touch unlucky after being accidentally struck in the face. He has the best of the draw over an ideal trip.  SEE IT AGAIN (3) has taken a new lease on life since joining the Justin Snaith yard and with the help of a horse behavioralist has overcome his aversion to the starting stalls. However, he was a touch disappointing in his last start although his form prior to that was out of the top draw and he finished third behind Gladatorian last year and second the previous year so is due a change of fortune. Last year’s winner GLADATORIAN (2) has had a searching winter campaign but has never been disgraced. He has a strong finishing burst that he used to good effect last year and if he has not lost his edge he will be competitive. Last season’s sensation EIGHT ON EIGHTEEN (4) has been relatively off the boil but this will have been his ultimate target for the season and could prove to be the best of Justin Snaith’s quartet. Certainly if back to his best form he will be a major contender. LEGAL COUNSEL (6) carried top weight in the recent Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July where he surprisingly set the pace. That may his task again but this time at level weights. DAVE THE KING (7) finished fifth in this race last year and has won once over the distance in three attempts. MAIN DEFENDER (5) steps up to this trip for the first time but does appear to be off the boil. MALMESBURY MISSILE (8) does appear to be outclassed in this line-up. (Andrew Harrison: 1-4-3-2-6-7).

RACE 9

Preview: MINOGUE (1) did not get the best of passages in the Hollywoodbets Durban July from her wide draw and the run is best ignored. Prior to that she ran second-placed July runner Wish List to a head over course and distance. She has the best of the draw and will be a strong contender. MOCHA BLEND (12) also had a tough draw in the July and was not too far back although it was a somewhat below par performance. She carries top weight from another wide gate but should be competitive in this line-up. ANOTHERDANCEFORME (5) has started at cramped odds in all 12 of her starts and has only been beaten once and that was in her first foray out of the Eastern Cape. She is obviously exceptional and will likely start favourite again but the opposition is a little stronger this time around. RAINBOW LORIKEET (13) won this race last year and is always competitive. She is drawn one outside of Mocha Blend but both will be contenders. EDUCATOR (8) has been improving with every outing but this will be her toughest test to date which she could well pass. GERBERA (3) may have found her last start a touch out of her compass and was a winner over course and distance at her penultimate start. She is certainly not out of it. (Andrew Harrison: 1-12-5-8-13-3).

RACE 10

Preview: Wide open handicap. The filly HIERARCHY (10) has a tough draw as she takes on males but ran a cracker behind stable companion Asiye Phambili in the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint at WFA. She has a big weight but with some luck in running she may be the one to beat. Clinton Binda has two lively runners in CHAPBOOK (3) and KAALVOET (9). The former has come well since the blinkers have been restored and was narrowly beaten by the smart Taxi To The Moon last run although getting lumps of weight. He meets weaker in what is an open affair. Kaalvoet has been much improved since being shod for his races and was a touch unlucky in the recent Gr3 Post Merchants where he arguably faced a much stronger field. AFRICAN PRIDE (1) has won over course and distance and has the best of the draw but there should not be much between him and Chapbook given their last meeting where they were separated by less than a length. They meet on the same weight terms. CIRCUMBENDIBUS (11) has hardly been out of the money since arriving in KZN and was touched off by African Pride when last they met. The draw could be the deciding factor between these two. DAME OF TRIX (8) has consistent form over the trip and won well enough last time out. She is up in class but comes in with a handy galloping weight and can feature. (Andrew Harrison: 10-3-1-11-9-8).

Precocious has a lot in her favour in the Middle Stakes race on the day (JC Photos)

A Middle Stakes race over 1400m and a MR96 handicap over 1000m ensure some good quality racing at Turffontein Standside on Saturday

In the Middle Stakes race over 1400m the filly Precocious has a nett merit rating of 104, which puts her one point below the top of the highest merit rating band (102-106). The horses whose nett merit rating falls in that band are set to carry 62kg, but she gets a 2kg gender allowance, so carries 60kg. She is duly the best weighted horse in the race and is officially 1,5kg better off than any other runner. Furthermore, being by stamina influence Ideal World out of a Vercingetorix mare who won on debut over 1200m and subsequently ran two seconds from 1400m to 1450m, she should enjoy the step up in trip. She has actually run over this distance before in her second career start at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth and from a tricky draw was not disgraced, finishing 3,25 lengths back after being caught without cover in second place in the running. It has since been discovered that she likes to be sat on before delivering her fine turn of foot and that is no doubt how Gavin Lerena will ride her from a plum draw of two.

Quickfreeze has a nett merit rating of 89, which puts him on top of the 86 to 89 band and carrying 54kg plus half-a-kilogram overweight for Craig Zackey he is only 2kg out with Precocious. He is 2kg better off with Bristol Hercules for a 1,80 length beating over this trip and he is drawn in pole, so should go close over a step down in trip which might suit.

Bristol Hercules comes back down to his favourite trip and off a 92 merit rating is one point lower than the highest mark in the 90-93 band, which corresponds with a 56kg weight. He is only 2kg out with Precocious and has good draw of four, so should be involved.

Tsar Bomba is joint second best in, being just 1,5kg out with Precocious. He was lowered two points to an 89 after his last two below par runs, both over this distance, but he ran down the inside last time which was not the place to be that day and he was eased when his chances were gone. He is capable of much better and can bounce back from a plum draw of three.

The other horse who is top of his band is the 93-rated Dantonfromsandton and he can earn if able to overcome a wide draw.

In the MR96 over 1000m the high draws proved to be advantageous down the straight at the last Standside meeting and this could see Just The Two Of Us going close from draw seven. She has proved she can run against the boys when finishing third over 1000m at the Vaal Classic track three runs ago. She has become consistent with cheekpieces on and goes well for Rachel Venniker, whose 1,5kg gender allowance is a bonus. Plus Four was cleverly given a slow start by Gavin Lerena last time from a draw of three so that he could come to the outside and he stormed through late on the outside rail for a two length win. He was given a seven point raise, but this time is drawn highest of all so will get there for free and Craig Zackey has replaced Lerena. Umzingeli Wenyathi, whom Lerena rides, is only 1kg better off with Plus Four for a two lengths beating. He did run down the unfavourable inside that day so could do better, but he is drawn low in two, so Lerena might have to try and make a plan like last time.

In the first leg of the Pick 6 over 2000m Kudzu is a nice type and will have a chance if able to find cover from a wide draw. Robert Browning is in fair form and if reproducing his best recent runs from a good draw he should be right there under Gavin Lerena. Mount Darwin is five points higher for his win over this trip last time but from pole position he might be able to be involved again.

In the next leg over 1160m Winter In Auckland might have needed his last run, his first on the Highveld, but he still won and could still be ahead of the handicapper despite having been raised seven points as he is a former Cape Town horse and they tend to have suppressed ratings. Kia Kaha is three points higher for his last win over course and distance but he looks to have begun fulfilling the promise he always had and has another plum outside draw, so he could possibly make it a hattrick. Geostorm is a full brother to Buffalo Bill Cody and looks capable of improvement, so could feasibly go one better than last time.

In the seventh over 1400m American Beauty should be cherry ripe to deliver from a fair draw over a suitable trip. Somebody Somewhere is also a former Cape Town-based horse and if able to overcome a wide draw she should be right there. Cape Saffron has a good draw and should finish on top of American Beauty going on their last clash.

In the last race over 1400m the decent sort Winds Of Grace lands a plum draw of two over an ideal trip under Gavin Lerena and this consistent sort can earn a deserved third win. Two-year-old filly Winter Voice looks to have the ability to be a contender off an 85 merit rating. Fiery Frolic is by Querari out of a Silvano mare so is interesting stepped up in trip and Craig Zackey is an interesting booking, although she does have to overcome a wide draw.

In the second race over 1400m Lightinthewoods was beaten by a promising sort over 1160m last time and from a good draw should enjoy this step up in trip.

In the first race King Solomon makes most appeal from a good draw under Mickaelle Michel.

Top-class and inform stallions are a key factor of the draft that Blue Sky Thoroughbreds will be presenting at this year’s August Two Year Old Sale.

Equus Champion One World, whose progeny include the likes of globetrotting champion One Stripe and the hugely exciting Rich Man’s World, is represented by a filly (Lot 94) out of a twice winning full-sister to G2 Cape Merchants winner Vikram. This filly hails from one of the best families in the South African stud book, with her relatives including such notable G1 stars as Nania, Red Ray, Royal Chalice and Rudra.

Galileo’s son The United States, the sire of recent G1 winners Kingdundee and Tin Pan Alley, is another proven sire represented in Blue Sky’s August string. He is the sire of a filly (Lot 138) out of the Vercingetorix sired East Cape champion Phedra, with Phedra, a full-sister to the stakes winning I’m So Pritti, a three-parts sister to the Vercingetorix sired G1 Jonsson Workwear Cape Derby winner Pomp And Power.

Cape Guineas winner Act Of War, whose recent flagbearers include the likes of Hazy Dazy and U S Ranger, has three lots on offer. Classy racemare and G3 Umzimkhulu Stakes runner up Twice As Smart has an Act Of War colt (Lot 225) on sale, as does Vanilla Orchid (Lot 230), a mare who hails from the immediate family of G3 Gold Vase winner Walter Smoothie. Act Of War is also sire of Oh So Sassy (Lot 240), a filly out of a G3 placed full-sister to the G1 winning dam of 2026 G3 Magical Zulu Kingdom Campanajo 2200 winner Magic Verse.

Yet another top-class sire represented in Blue Sky Thoroughbreds’ August Two Year Old Sale draft is Futura. That former Horse Of The Year, and sire of recent G1 Hollywoodbets Durban July winner Note To Self, is the sire of a filly (Lot 259) whose dam is a Cape Cross half-sister to seven time group winner Maraahel.

Other appealing lots include the What A Winter filly (Lot 253) out of G2 winner A Womens Way and the Master Of My Fate colt (Lot 268) whose dam is a half-sister to G1 Thekwini Stakes winner Querari Falcon.

This draft can be viewed from Block C at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

Wilgerbosdrift is a farm famed for the quality of broodmare it is home to.

This leading thoroughbred nursery has some of the best bred and best performed fillies and mares in South Africa, and this factor is clearly highlighted in Wilgerbosdrift’s draft for this year’s August Two Year Old Sale.

Wilgerbosdrift will be offering two-year-olds by a host of different stallions, including their highly successful resident sires Buffalo Bill Cody, Fire Away, Flower Alley and the up and coming Hawwaam. This draft also includes the offspring of such star stallions as Vercingetorix, Rafeef, and The United States.

Shane Van Zyl is confident that buyers will be impressed by Wilgerbosdrift’s draft for the August Sale, and he picked out a few choice lots to follow:

Royal Jasmine Lot 123: f Flower Alley -Noor
Royal Jasmine is a tall filly with lots of quality. She is very correct and moves well.

Eloquent Lady Lot 241: f Hawwaam -Word Perfect
She is a strong filly, deep through the girth with a lot of substance and quality, correct.

Climate Change Lot 242: f Hawwaam -World Radar
Strong filly with substance and quality. She stands over ground and moves well.

Epic Wave Lot 251: c Vercingetorix -Zulaal
A good looking colt with lots of quality. He is well balanced and moves well, correct.

Greek Cowboy Lot 273: c Buffalo Bill Cody -Athina
This is a strong solid colt with a lot of substance and he is very correct.

Mangrove Reef Lot 304: c The United States -Carrie Bow Cay
Tall strong solid colt with a lot of substance, correct moves well.

This draft can be viewed from Blocks F and G at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

One Magic can show his ability in the sixth race at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday

Alistair Cohen (Race Coast)

We are all human. Therefore, mistakes are made. A Champion Jockey in waiting about to be crowned for the first time would make less mistakes than his peers along the way. That is the nature of success. Spain made less mistakes than anybody else through the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Craig Zackey would probably acknowledge that he made the wrong decision when he rode One Magic in his last start. The racing public would easily forgive him for the many moments of superb riding over the last 12 months. Zackey is at Turffontein today so Richard Fourie takes the ride at Hollywoodbets Durbanville in race 6 over 1400m.

One Magic jumped slowly last time. As a result, he was left near the back of the field. When he started building up, he looked dangerous but the gap on the inside closed up and he had to take evasive action. It was not a bad ride. It was such hard luck. One must keep in mind that he is a two-year-old. Granted, he turns a year older in a week so that argument becomes moot. But he took on older, well grizzled opposition and he encountered the bend for the first time. He was beaten by 2,45 lengths by October Fest over 1250m.

His debut came at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth over 1000m down the straight and he always looked at ease beating My Bonny Boy by 1,75 lengths. My Bonny Boy has won subsequently. Trainer Justin Snaith referred to the fact that he “had to leave the sales with him”. He has so many pleasing physical attributes. It is impossible to judge where he fits in with so many youngsters yet to race but he could be targeting some lucrative races in the coming months.

Devil A Saint will be a useful horse to get a line from. Although he is very much in his place at this level, he has three career wins and crucially 13 places on his CV. This includes finishing runner-up in his last three runs. He would be a deserving winner if he got the job done. He will have his supporters. Plus, he comes from a yard in good heart of Des McLachlan. He will give One Magic something to think about. Two runs back he finished a length behind Clark Griswold who has a bright future. Sean Veale takes the ride.

Merriment must have a top chance of winning race 1 over 1250m. She has to compete with the deepest draw of No 8 but her debut saw her finish third, 3,25 lengths behind She’s Chosen over 1000m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. Unless a first timer has some ability, she should step up and exit the maidens.

Landman sticks out as the best bet on the card when he runs in race 2 over 1250m. On debut he finished a close-up second behind My Bonny Boy. Despite not winning, he did most things correctly. He has found the right field to have confidence that he will follow up and do the job. Fourie is up for Snaith as they prepare for potentially a huge day tomorrow with Ahead Of The Facts and Eight On Eighteen.

One would probably be a little tentative with Royal Influencer who runs in race 3 over 1500m but his recent runs suggests that he will take all the beating. He has been costly to follow having been in this position before and leaving something out there when not winning. Again, Snaith appears to have found a suitable race. His last run came over this trip at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth when he finished close-up behind Superhero in second. Madra Rua looks like his only danger.

There are plenty of chances in race 4 over 2000m. A chance is taken on Echo Foxtrot who comes from an in-form yard of Adam Marcus. His best run was over this distance when he finished third behind Phantom Man. It has to be considered that he carried 52,5kg and received 9kg from the winner. After a slow start to his career, every run has been a building block seeing steady progress and even though taking seven runs to look this ready, he must be taken seriously in an event of this nature.

Bourbon King takes on a good field in race 5 over 1600m. He is on the up and he could be up to the task. Andrew Fortune is carded to ride for Andre Nel. His maiden win came in his penultimate effort when he smashed Royal Influencer. If he wins earlier that will give even more confidence. Bourbon King’s post-maiden effort was pleasing behind Walolo Yamoni. He finished third just over two lengths behind. He looks like the more he races and the further he goes, the better and more reliable be becomes. Captains Alliance, Marcus Aurelius, Bombers In The Sky, Spirit and Noble Hero are all respected. They are tried and tested and have some claims.

Fortune and Nel team up again in race 7 over 1250m. Blue Lagoon is consistent and she should not suddenly lose her way. She has the inside gate of No 1 and she should continue on her way to another pleasing run. If she does not win, she should go close which is on par with her form and expectations. My Only Weakness has been steadily dropping in class so must be due a bold run while Star World loves this course and must be considered as a danger.

IT’S TIGHT AT THE TOP OF THE JOCKEYS’ LOG:

Raymond Danielson (14 winners) holds a slender lead over Grant Van Niekerk and Manoel Nunes (13 winners apiece) in the race for the 2026 MTC Jockeys’ Championship as we head into RM11 at Champ de Mars on Saturday. With the depth of talent available in the Carl Hewitson stable, Nunes is probably favourite to successfully defend the crown he won last year when retained by Soon Gujadhur.

Grant Van Niekerk has garnered a huge fanbase here on the Island and with the Jevin Awotar stable continuing to show top class form, his chances of lifting the trophy cannot be ruled out while Danielson, as the retained rider for the Gujadhur team, will have every chance of clinging on to his narrow advantage.

The MTCJC stage a 7-race programme on Saturday with the Place Accumulator kicking off in the opener, the Pick 6 in Race 2 and the Jackpot in Race 4. The first race, reserved for Mauritian Jockeys and Apprentices, will be run at 10:30 South African time.

Race 1: (10:30) – BM20 Handicap – 1400m:

A repeat of his last run when second to subsequent winner Exalted Love, should be enough for Lunar Descent to secure victory in this bottom division handicap over 1400m. Lunar Descent gets the services of the experienced Rye Joorawon and the 3yo son of Captain of All will be looking to end a dry spell for the Sam Mahadia stable. Fire Starter, with Kersley Ramsamy aboard, looks the obvious danger and the 3yo son of Fire Away is expected to show significant progress following his decent 990m debut on the Island.

Betting: 14/10 Lunar Descent; 18/10 Fire Starter; 9/2 River Hawk; 14/1 and better the balance.

Selection: (7) Lunar Descent; (2) Fire Starter; (1) River Hawk; (3) Canford Lights.

Race 2: (11:05) – BM26 Handicap – 1450m:

A small but competitive field faces the starter for this BM26 Handicap over 1450m. Both Dance To The Sun and Global Warrior sport blinkers for the first time and either could improve sufficiently to score. My preference, and the better value, lies with Vincent Allet’s runner Global Warrior. There was little to seperate Dance To The Sun and Lava Burst when finishing second and third behind the exciting New World on 13 June but I would expect Dance To The Sun to confirm that form, while Indigenous is consistent and not without winning claims in a trappy contest.

Betting: 12/10 Dance To The Sun; 16/10 Indigenous; 7/2 Global Warrior; 12/1 Lava Burst.

Selection: (3) Global Warrior; (1) Dance To The Sun; (2) Indigenous; (4) Lava Burst.

Race 3: (11:40) – BM25 Handicap – 1650m:

Corne Orffer has joined the Shirish Narang stable and gets an early opportunity to make his mark. He partners Fortune Hunter who made a promising local debut when second to Lava County a month ago. The 4yo son of Flower Alley steps up to a more suitable 1650m here and he looks good value at 3/1. Donovan Mansour’s sole ride at the meeting is Trick Or Tequila who landed the odds last time over 1450m. He will improve further over this extended trip but will be fully tested from the worst of the draw. New York City and Lomu have scope for further improvement and could challenge but I am firmly in the camp of Fortune Hunter who could start a lot shorter in the market come race time.

Betting: 28/10 Trick Or Tequila; 3/1 Fortune Hunter; 9/2 New York City, Lomu; 12/1 and better the balance.

Selection: (1) Fortune Hunter; (4) Trick Or Tequila; (2) New York City; (3) Lomu.

Race 4: (12:15) – BM41 Handicap – 1450m:

My Archangel trotted up last week when beating All About Love by nearly four lengths and is clearly in a good space. He will be strongly fancied to follow up, but faces a more testing opponent here in the form of Warbird who has won her last two starts in comfortable fashion. Nunes takes the ride on My Archangel while Van Niekerk will be aboard Warbird and this race should make for an interesting contest between the pair. Tsunami Warning is holding form well but may have a bit to find against the likes of My Archangel and Warbird, while Military Force is open to significant improvement after racing very green on his Champs de Mars debut.

Betting: 1/1 My Archangel; 5/2 Warbird; 7/1 Tsunami Warning; 14/1 and better the balance.

Selection: (3) My Archangel; (1) Warbird; (6) Tsunami Warning; (2) Military Force.

Race 5: (12:50) – BM51 Handicap – 1600m:

Bounceback (Van Niekerk) has won his last three starts and is a red-hot favourite to complete the four-timer. Makazole (Danielson) finished four lengths adrift of Bounceback five weeks ago but the Soon Gujadhur-trained 4yo son of Trippi was making his debut that day and has plenty of upside. Makazole is now 2,5 kgs better off with Bounceback. Brave Bomber presents as a lively threat as the 4yo son of Lancaster Bomber drops in class here and now gets the services of Manoel Nunes for the first time. Both Fateful Day and Let’s Play Poker have done enough to suggest they could earn a share of the prize money.

Betting: 6/10 Bounceback; 2/1 Brave Bomber; 6/1 Makazole; 25/1 the balance.

Selection: (1) Bounceback; (4) Makazole; (5) Brave Bomber; (3) Let’s Play Poker.

Race 6: (13:25) – BM61 Handicap – 1450m:

War Chariot (Van Niekerk) was narrowly denied by Salt ‘n Peppa last time but is favoured in the market to resume winning ways. The 5yo son of Pomodoro is not an easy ride and he will need to put his best foot forward against the likes of Moonlight Trader (Danielson) and Rich Folks Hoax (Nunes). Rich Folks Hoax was beaten by Bounceback in his last two starts and being in receipt of 2,5 kgs, will prove a formidable opponent for War Chariot. Moonlight Trader made a sparkling seasonal debut when beating United Prince over 1365m six weeks ago and the 4yo son of Erupt is likely to take another step forward. He could prove to be good value at around 6/1. Menelaus and Common Grounds have decent form and will make their presence felt in a competitive event.

Betting: 14/10 War Chariot; 18/10 Rich Folks Hoax; 6/1 Moonlight Trader; 7/1 Common Grounds; 16/1 and better the balance.

Selection: (6) Rich Folks Hoax; (4) War Chariot; (2) Moonlight Trader; (1) Common Grounds.

Race 7: (14:05) – BM31 Handicap – 1365m:

That’ll B The Day (Taka) was a supremely easy course and distance winner five weeks ago when beating subsequent winner Paved With Gold in good style. The 3yo son of Vercingetorix takes on stronger here but looks a useful sort in the making. Diamond Days (Danielson) tends to over-race and may be better over 990m, but if That’ll B The Day ensures a strong pace, that will suit the 3yo son of Rafeef and Diamond Days could get the run of the race. Unsung Hero (Nunes), Cider House Rules (Sooful) and Fine One (Orffer) are all genuine sorts and could have a say in the outcome.

Betting: 5/10 That’ll B The Day; 3/1 Diamond Days; 7/1 Fine One; 12/1 and better the balance>

Selection: (1) That’ll B The Day; (5) Diamond Days; (2) Unsong Hero; (6) Fine One.

Betting correct at 17:00 on Thursday 16 July.

Suggested Pick 6 (Races 2-7):
1,2,3,4 x 1,4 x 1,3 x 1,4,5 x 2,4,6 x 1 (R144)