The Vaughan Marshall-trained All Out For Six (One World) won last season’s Big Cap, but the aftermath was marred by controversy as he was deemed to have been responsible for the interference suffered by the favourite, his stablemate One Stripe. (Picture Wayne Marks)
The racing world is bracing for one of the most anticipated events on the 2026 calendar – The RCS Big Cap, scheduled for 12 April 2026 at Hollywoodbets Greyville. Boasting a massive R5 million purse, this high-stakes contest will be run over 1400m under set conditions, and is expected to draw blue-chip contenders.
The RCS Big Cap is a slot race, offering a thrilling opportunity for owners and syndicates to participate by purchasing one of 14 exclusive slots, each priced at R350,000 (excl. VAT). With only 14 places in the starting gates, competition for these slots is already heating up, driven by the lucrative prize pool and the prestige of winning one of South Africa’s richest races.
Potential Contenders: A Star-Studded Field
A dazzling mix of seasoned campaigners and exciting up-and-comers are on the radar for potential Big Cap entries. From powerful three-year-olds to seasoned five-year-olds, the depth of talent ensures a fiercely competitive spectacle.
Among the 3-year-olds, Malmesbury Missile, Military Command and Esteemed are generating early buzz. Roland Garros, Dreamworld, Vapour Trail, Randolph Hearst and Happy Verse have shown impressive form in recent starts, while Zalatoris and Winter Snap bring versatility and tactical speed to the fold. The fillies She’s My World and Glastonbury may also take on the colts, adding a thrilling dynamic to the race.
Looking to the 4-year-olds, the field becomes even more formidable. The flashy chestnut Kaiboy and the ever-consistent Captain West will be looking to assert their class together with Bjorn Ironside, Okavango, Great Plains, Makazole, La Pulga and Musical Score. Meanwhile, Almond Sea, Just Be Lekker and Little Ballerina represent the leading older female talent, with VJ’s Angel not far behind.
At the top end of the age scale, Coastal Commander and The Grey King bring invaluable experience to the table and could surprise with the right pace setup.
Major absentees from the line-up will be One Stripe, who has been exported to the United States with a focus on the Breeders’ Cup – an exciting move for South African breeding and racing pride on the global stage. The 2025 HSH Princess Charlene Big Cap winner, All Out For Six, is also set for an international campaign in Hong Kong.
More Than a Race – A R5 Million Opportunity
Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, owner, or punter, the RCS Big Cap is set to be a spectacle you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for official slot announcements and entries as the road to Hollywoodbets Greyville begins.
For more information, please contact: Vicky Minott vicky@racecoast.co.za MJ Byleveld mj@racecoast.co.za Janine van Blerk janine@racecoast.co.za
