Turf Talk Newsletter – 27 May, 2026

Trust pictured beating Jan Van Goyen (hidden) in the Dingaans (JC Photos)

The Gr 2 Jackpot City Dingaans winner Trust has been sold to owners from Hong Kong.

The crack Candice and Tammy Dawson-trained Heavenly Blue colt had been a 16/1 shot for the Hollywoodbets Durban July after showing hard-knocking form in the Highveld Triple crown races, finishing third in the Gr 2 TAB Gauteng Guineas and a short-head second in the Gr 1 TAB SA Classic, and yet somewhat controversially he was not in the top 20 of the Hollywoodbets Durban July log.

Larryt Nestadt, speaking on behalf of the owners about the sale, said, “The Hollywoodbets Durban July is great for racing, it is one of the world’s great races and is one every South African owner wants to win. I have aspired to win it since the day I started owning horses and have gone close to doing so. But we got a very attractive offer for Trust. They were after him once before. The problem here is our feeling about what goes on with the handicapping system. The July is the plum, a lot of young horses are aiming for it, but you are just left floundering. The handicapping system is a mess. Up, down, now we are too low in the merit rating. Had we left our horse where it had been rated then we would be in the July. But what has changed? It is the same horse? It is a bizarre situation. The system has put owners under pressure and the good horses are not going racing and are leaving the country. All our races are losing their status. Just about every race I look at now was a Gr 1 and is now a Gr 2 and Gr 2s are Gr 3s and Listed races are losing their status and that is the problem, owners can’t race their horses in these races anymore. The Daily News for example. Who is actually there? There are one or two top horses, but a number of the best three-year-olds are avoiding it. So really, that is the overriding problem, when you get a good horse you actually don’t know what to do with it. We don’t want the pressure of trying to get the horse into the Hollywoodbets Durban July having missed a few big races, like the Daily News, which we decided we won’t race in because otherwise we will be out at the weights in the July. It is a handicapping nightmare at the moment, there is something wrong with our handicapping system. This does not happen overseas.”

Larry went on to say the Trust connections were in a similar position to the connections of Gr 1 SA Classic winner Grand Empire.

The latter’s trainer Sean Tarry said recently he had planned a build up program into the July based on his belief that the horse would be in a comfortably high position on the log. However, when he found out the horse was only in position 20 on the log, it was then too late to change his program and aim at a race like the Daily News.

Larry said, “We are in exactly the same position and we are not even on the log, but we got lucky because the good offer came. What would otherwise have happened is we would have gone for some other race that we hadn’t planned for, and he may not have won that race and then he would never have got into the July. ”

He continued, “It is a sad situation. It has just become a nightmare to place young three-year-olds, so rather place them overseas.”

Larry is still looking forward to Trust’s overseas career.

He said, “I bred him, so it is important for me to see he is in the right hands and he does well.”

Trust was officially bred by The Tawny Syndicate, which Larry has been a member of since its inception in the mid 1980s.

The other owners of Trust were Gary Player Stud Farm (Pty) Ltd & Ralphs Racing (Pty) Ltd (Nom: Miss K Ralphs).

Trust has an electric turn of foot and should be suited to the tight tracks of Sha Tin and Happy Valley and his career will be eagerly followed by many a South African fan.  

Note To Self will take a power of beating in the Gr 1 Daily News 2000 (Picture: Wayne Marks)

Justin Snaith has three runners in the Gr 1 Daily News 2000, the ruling Hollywoodbets Durban July favourite Note To Self, the July entry Happy Verse and Malmesbury Missile.

He also has the favourite in the Gr 2 Lucky Fish Woolavington 2000, the dual Gr 1 winner Wish List, while the Gr 3 New Turf Carriers Western Cape Stayers winner Ahead Of The Facts runs in the Gr 3 Lonsdale Stirrup Cup over 2400m.

Jonathan Snaith said about Note To Self, a big Futura gelding with a huge stride, “He is absolutely thriving at present and will relish the step up in trip. He has improved considerably and looks a difficult horse to oppose. While the Hollywoodbets Durban July has always been his ultimate target, winning any Gr1 is what this game is all about. He was caught a little flat-footed last time out, but that was his first visit to Greyville and he raced green, appearing uneasy around the shadows over a trip far too sharp for him to show his best. With that experience now behind him and the return to a more suitable distance, one can expect his best effort. He will be a serious contender in this Gr1 classic and, if all goes well, in the Hollywoodbets Durban July. The Mitchell Family (Nancy and her father Jack) have enjoyed success in this race before with Legislate, who went on just weeks later to capture the Durban July.”

The Vercingetorix gelding Happy Verse caught the eye early in his career and, whilst he has done little wrong, it has to be said he has been a touch disappointing.

Jonathan said, “Happy Verse is a completely different horse since being gelded. He has trimmed down beautifully and is also far more settled in his work and behaviour. Although he was been derailed by Star Major twice previously, he is certainly not without a chance of reversing the form with the KZN Guineas winner. Richard Fourie has yet to ride him and he’ll be the perfect rider to get the best out of him. This will be his third run post gelding which is worth noting.”

Malmesbury Missile by Gimmethegreenlight is a half-brother to last Saturday’s impressive Gr 2 Allan Robertson Championship winner Get up. He enjoys Hollywoodbets Greyville, but both of his wins there have been over 1400m.

Jonathan said, “Malmesbury Missile steps up in trip for the first time and, although his pedigree may suggest otherwise, he could easily surprise if the race is not run at a brisk tempo.”

Note To Self jumps from draw 6 under Andrew Fortune in the 11 horse field, Happy Verse jumps from draw 9 under Richard Fourie and Malmesbury Missile jumps from draw four under Gavin Lerena.

Wish List, who is a prohibitive 5/10 for the Woolavington 2000, is  ever improving and could be heading for superstardom.

Jonathan said, “Wish List could not be doing any better and continues to improve with maturity and racing. While she is only three, she is already a two-time Gr1 winner. She offers little value at 5-10, but if Andrew Fortune can secure a clear passage home, she should prove very hard to beat. She’s unbeaten over this distance, highlighted by her superb victory against the colts in the Gr1 Cape Derby. Andrew Fortune also boasts a perfect two-from-two record aboard her and reunites with her here, which can only be seen as a major positive. She has star potential about her.”

The Legislate filly jumps from draw 5 under Andrew Fortune.

Picture: Eight On Eighteen wins last year’s Daily News 2000

Where Racing Meets Rhythm at Hollywoodbets Greyville

Free Entry | Free Parking

Durban, South Africa – Hollywoodbets Greyville transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour, culture and celebration on Saturday, 30 May, as the Champions Season presents the Daily News 2000, one of South Africa’s premier racing events for three-year-olds.

Run over 2000m, the Grade 1 Daily News 2000 is a defining test for the country’s top classic generation and a pivotal stepping stone on the road to the Hollywoodbets Durban July. The race has long been recognised as a launchpad for champions, often unveiling the next stars of South African racing.

But the excitement extends far beyond the racetrack.

This year’s event blends elite racing with Bollywood-inspired entertainment, family fun, vibrant fashion and a high-energy Bhangra afterparty, delivering a race day experience unlike any other.

A Full Day of Colour, Culture and Entertainment

Entertainment

DJ Yash will keep racegoers entertained throughout the day alongside DJ Law T  from 16h30 to 18h30 bring in the Bhangra vibes with  MC Sareshen, DJ Suraj Singh, DJ Manic Thor, Singer Shay Ramji and dances by Entertainment Spectacular and Vande Matharam dances the and bringing an upbeat soundtrack to the festivities.

Guests can immerse themselves in the Bollywood-inspired atmosphere with:

• Henna and jewel stations
• Saree and turban styling pop-ups
• Photobooth

Family Fun

Families can enjoy a free supervised KidZone, featuring:

• Jumping castles
• Pony rides
• Magic shows
• Face painting
• Free popcorn and slushies
• Giant Jenga and dominoes

Bollywood Street Food Market

Food lovers can indulge in a fusion of Durban and Indian flavours with:

• Wok on Fire
• Desserts
• Nachos
• Lamb wraps
• Samosas

Trackside Market

Shoppers can browse a variety of vendors offering:

• Traditional Indian wear
• Jewellery and accessories
• Gifts and lifestyle products

Best Dressed Competition

Racegoers are encouraged to embrace the theme with bold Bollywood-meets-race-day glamour for a chance to win a share of R20,000 in prizes.

From dazzling colours to luxe textures — anything goes.

Bhangra Bash After Party

From 7pm, the Champions Room transforms into a vibrant Bhangra celebration filled with music, dance and colour.

Entry is free, but access is limited:

• Collect armbands from the Race Coast information office between 11am and 4pm
• Maximum of four armbands per family
• No armband, no entry
• Limited armbands available at the door, subject to availability

Racing Spotlight: Daily News 2000

The Daily News 2000 boasts one of the most distinguished honour rolls in South African racing, with many past winners progressing to Hollywoodbets Durban July glory, Equus honours and even international success.

This year’s renewal promises exceptional intrigue.

Current Hollywoodbets Durban July favourite Note To Self, lines up to confirm his credentials at the highest level, while Star Major, winner of the World Sports Betting KZN Guineas Gr2, steps up to test his stamina over the 2000m trip.

Other leading contenders include:

• Jan Van Goyen, last season’s Champion Male after his Grade 1 success at Hollywoodbets Greyville as a juvenile
• Chronicle King, another proven performer at the venue

Together they headline what promises to be a thrilling 2026 edition of the Daily News 2000.

Lucky Fish Woolavington Stakes Feature

The fillies take centre stage in the Lucky Fish Woolavington Gr2, where all eyes will be on the highly regarded Wish List.

The Justin Snaith-trained filly captured the Lucky Fish Cape Derby Gr1 in February before producing a breathtaking finishing burst to win the WSB KZN Fillies Guineas Gr2 last month.

Widely considered one of the country’s leading three-year-old fillies, she faces strong opposition from the talented Rainbow Lorikeet.

Experience Race Day in Style

For those looking to elevate their raceday experience, the Durban View Restaurant offers premium hospitality with panoramic views of the racing action.

Priced at R325 per person (R280 for Race Coast Turf Club Members) including VAT, the package includes:

• Race card
• Carefully curated menu from starters to dessert
• Added surprises throughout the day

A cash bar will also be available.

Email: fbbookings@racecoast.co.za
Tel: 031 314 1736

Where racing meets rhythm — only at Hollywoodbets Greyville.

African Prince, pictured winning in Cape Town, has finished second in his last four starts and can get it right at last (Picture: Wayne Marks)  

Vaal Thursday Formguides And Selections

RACE 1

Competitive opener from which THE BACHELORETTE could emerge victorious. She was a fast-finishing second on debut over 1000m and is open to any amount of improvement with that experience under the belt and the extra 200m likely to suit. VOLCANIC HEAT, NO DRAMA and QUEEN LEILA concede weight to the selection but have feature-race form to their names, so they are expected to pose a threat. IRISH WILMA could have a say if building on recent improvement, while ARROGANCE is a well-bred newcomer to note on debut, especially if the market speaks in her favour. Watch the betting.

RACE 2

ONWARD was a game-in-defeat second over this trip against older rivals last time so could go one better. LOLLY WILLOWES concedes 4kg to that rival but has the form and experience to expose any chinks in the selection’s armour. ANAHITA fits a similar profile but returns from a rest. SECRET LIFE, EMPRESS OF PEACE and TAKEACHANCEONME have shown enough to be competitive too. Well-bred newcomer BE ALL YOU CAN BE is worth a market check and also warrants respect before any betting clues.

RACE 3

WINDING POWER was outrun late by the winner over 1700m last time with this headgear fitted and a repeat of that effort over this shorter trip with 2.5kg off his back could suffice. He is closely matched with NEBRASKA on earlier form but better off at the weights. DOCTOR STRANGELOVE was backed on debut and with natural improvement should pose a bigger threat. SENDAI, BEACH WALKER, ONE STATE and COVER CHARGE have shown enough to make their presence felt too. Newcomer WINTER WHISPER is worth a market check.

RACE 4

WAR REPORTER confirmed the promise of his encouraging comeback by running out an authoritative winner of a similar contest last time and, with further progress likely in his peak outing, the resultant 6-point penalty may not be enough to prevent him from following up. REDLIGHTGREENLIGHT will pose more of a threat on 3kg better terms but is drawn wide. MOUNT DARWIN, REPETITION and unexposed 3yo TRACKSUIT DAVE are competitive off their current marks and could get into the picture. GUERILLA WARFARE and OKLAHOMA TWISTER also have earning potential.

RACE 5

ANGEL’S OASIS returned from a break to win going away over 1000m at this level last month and she should remain competitive under a 4-point penalty with improved fitness on her side. Top-weight MYSTICAL MISS, while probably most effective over a shorter trip, could fight out the finish dropping in class off a career-low mark. MAVERICK QUEEN and QUIET WINTER also warrant respect off slightly reduced ratings. SHE’S ALL MINE shouldn’t be overlooked back against same-sex opposition.

RACE 6

Speedy RABBLE ROUSER lost little in defeat when collared late over 1400m last time after a winning sprint debut. She will improve with experience and this shorter trip should play to her strengths. FAIR PROPOSAL, OPERA FAN and last-start winner SIGRID SWING have the form and experience at this level to trouble the selection. ADA LOVELACE and MISTY METAL appeal most of the remainder.

RACE 7

KOMATI RIVER led her rivals a merry dance in a stronger contest over track and trip last time and she will be hard to beat at this level if repeating that performance under an 8-point penalty (career-high mark). Younger 3yo rivals CAPTAIN SELVIE, SEASON’S GREETINGS and RUSSIAN NOBILITY are useful sprinters with solid form and scope to improve, and they have the means to play leading roles in receipt of weight from the selection. MAMLAMBO, UNITED OFFER and LOST FOR WORDS aren’t taken lightly returning from respective absences.

RACE 8

AFRICAN PRINCE deserves to get his head in front after several near misses, including 3 consecutive seconds recently over 1160m. The drop in class coupled with his rider’s 2.5kg claim could bring about a return to winning ways. However, last-start winners ROMILLY and TRAIL RUNNER are competitive off their current marks, as is class-dropper ANTONIO GAUDI who will make his presence felt. Well-related GEOSTORM is unexposed and open to any amount of improvement on his handicap debut so must be respected, along with ONE TIGER and DANTE’S BOND.

The two-year-old The United States colt Bison Warrior gives both Calvin Habib and Wendy Whitehead the first leg of respective individual doubles in the first race at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Wednesday, with Habib also winning the second race and Whitehead winning the last race (Julia Marnewick)

An amazing fact of today’s Hollywoodbets Greyville poly meeting was that the 2007-born Var mare Variety had no fewer than four runners representing her.

Variety’s Stuart Ferrie-trained two-year-old Rafeef filly Menagerie became her seventh winner from nine runners when scoring by a comfortable 1,50 lengths in a Maiden Plate over 1200m by 1,50 lengths under Sean Veale at well-backed odds of 36/100.

Variety’s Lucinda Woodruff-trained Ideal World three-year-old gelding Barry’s Boy looked the winner at odds of 11/10 in a Maiden Plate over 1000m, but he was caught late and only managed a 0,30 length third behind three-year old Robbie and Shannon Hill-trained Quarter Master.

Her other two runners, Hodgepodge and Smorgasbord, finished fifth and tenth respectively in their events.

Wendy Whitehead and Calvin Habib were the only double scorers at the meeting.

Habib is now on 111 wins for the season achieved at a strike rate of 11.19%.

Whitehead is on 26 wins at 7.98%.

Caspar Fownes reclaimed the lead in a rollercoaster battle for the Hong Kong trainers’ championship at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (27 May) with a double as Joao Moreira slotted a treble, while Zac Purton needs only one more winner to reach 2,000 wins in Hong Kong.

Fownes’ (56 wins) wrested back the lead in an engrossing battle for the trainers’ championship with a brace, edging ahead of Danny Shum (56) with more minor placings – 38 seconds to 34. Mark Newnham is next with 53 wins from Francis Lui (50), David Hayes (49) and John Size (46).

On a night where many expected Purton to reach the 2,000-victory milestone, the Australian champion rode a winner, two seconds, a third and a fourth from eight rides as Moreira took riding honours.

The Brazilian triumphed aboard Fownes pair Audacious Pursuit (133lb) in the Class 4 Rhine Handicap (1650m) and Elegant Life (122lb) in the second section of the Class 4 Ciron Handicap (1200m) and also Cody Mo’s Lucky McQueen (126lb) in the first section of the Class 4 Ciron Handicap (1200m).

Moreira said: “It’s a good feeling. I got on some nice horses today. I believed it was meant to be (winning) because they got good gates. I’m so happy to be getting opportunities and to be getting them up.”

Moreira returned to Hong Kong and started his stint as a stable retained jockey for Fownes in a spectacular blaze with a quartet at Happy Valley on 8 April.

Fownes praised Moreira’s ride on Audacious Pursuit: “It was perfection by Joao to get him on the rail and save the ground. When you just win by a small margin, that’s everything really, it’s what you need. You need good rides, good draws, and the rest takes care of itself.

“It’s why I said Hong Kong racing is so exciting. We’re trying our best, that’s for sure.”

Newnham’s Armor Golden Eagle (130lb) delivered Purton’s 121st victory of the season with success in the Class 3 Sauternes’s Cup Handicap (1650m), delighting the trainer.

“He was in the ideal spot. It was a carbon copy of last start, really, just in the right spot – they put them away well. He’s a good improving horse,” Newnham said.

“The last two meetings, we’ve had a frustrating run of placings. The horses are racing very well. Tonight, we started with two thirds and a second, and now a winner, so horses are racing well. They’ll get their chance when they draw well and things go right in the run.”

Apprentice Britney Wong, 27, landed her first Happy Valley victory and gave Tony Cruz a double when Son Pak Fu (128lb) surged along the inside to clinch the Class 3 Seine Handicap (1200m) by a short head from Gummy Gummy (121lb).

With 28 wins at Sha Tin across the past two seasons, Wong ended an exasperating run of minor placings at the city circuit with Son Pak Fu’s victory over former Benno Yung stablemate Gummy Gummy.

“I am very glad and before this win I had ridden eight seconds here already, so we were that close but not winning,” Wong said. “I’m very happy that we got the win today and I’m very grateful for Tony’s support and it’s such a great honour to be riding winners for him – and to get my first winner here at Happy Valley.”

Wong’s breakthrough capped a strong night for Cruz, who also produced Superb Capitalist (131lb) with his seventh win at Happy Valley with a brilliant late surge to take the Class 3 Garonne Handicap (1000m) under Angus Chung.

Jerry Chau boosted his hopes of a first Tony Cruz Award as the leading homegrown jockey when Me Tsui’s Basic Instinct (127lb) – who had not finished in the top four in 15 previous starts – broke through in the Class 5 Dordogne Handicap (1200m).

Karis Teetan combined with Rosewood Fleetwood (127lb) to land the Class 5 Loire Handicap (2200m) to give Ricky Yiu his 1,099th Hong Kong win, while Manfred Man’s strong season continued with Bright Day’s (127lb) victory under a measured Derek Leung ride in the third section of the Class 4 Ciron Handicap (1200m).

Hong Kong racing continues at Sha Tin on Sunday (31 May) with a Group 3 double-header – the Sha Tin Vase Handicap (1200m) and the Lion Rock Trophy Handicap (1600m).