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The 2026 edition of the Gr 1 Maiden Cup saw a decisive, flawless victory for the six-year-old Danon Platina gelding Rapidash, a former winner of the R7.5 million Gold Rush. Ridden by Pierre Corne Orffer, the Subiraj Gujadhur stable’s runner dominated the field to secure a classic double, having won the Gr 2 Duchess Of York Cup in April over the same 2400m distance.
With 11 horses in the line up, the race promised to be a tactical affair, and it certainly lived up to that billing. From Courtly (Danielson) taking the early lead and Good Council (Schwarz) taking over, to Future Swing’s (Mansour) charge in the final 600 meters and Rapidash (Orffer) slipping through along the rail on the final bend, there was never a dull moment.
Ultimately, the race crowned a worthy winner, and the Subiraj-Abhishek Gujadhur team deserves every accolade.
After his Maiden Cup triumph, Orffer repeated the feat in the very next race with Formagear, riding for his employer, Aqua Stallions. He crossed the finish line ahead of Royal Wulff and Captain Lannister.
It was a lucky day for the Awotar stable, which celebrated a fine double. The mare Warbird defeated her rivals in the second race, while Isikwishikwishi claimed a maiden victory in the fourth. Both horses were ridden by Grant Van Niekerk.
Meanwhile, Iannish Taka made the most of his only ride of the day by steering That’ll B Day (third race) to a third victory in as many starts on the local turf.
This classic race day also saw the Gujadhur stable shine thanks to Diamond Days. Breaking well, the sprinter quickly established a prime position before racing away to victory.
After showing improvement in recent outings, Lomu (Schwarz) secured his first victory in the opening race. The grey horse beat Indigenous to the line, delivering a valuable win for the Ruhee stable.
Having faced bad luck throughout the day, Manoel Nunes managed to come out on top in the final race aboard the favorite, Fear Of Fire. Despite a late surge from Trick Or Tequila, the favorite held on to win.
