20211109 - Sporting Post Sprint Ver 1.2 Single Pages by Sporting Post

JC Photost

Progressive Clafoutis can lift her game again

SLACK & DE KOCK AGAIN? The only feature event on the local racing programme this weekend, the R175 000 Gr3 Fillies Mile is run on Saturday on the Turffontein standside track at weight-for-age plus penalties for graded race victories. Mike de Kock and longstanding owner Mary Slack are enjoying a purple patch and bid for their third consecutive Gauteng feature victory after the sensational Desert Miracle beat the boys

in the Graham Beck Stakes a fortnight ago. Last weekend Sparkling Water won a thrilling finish to the Victory Moon Stakes in the famous black and scarlet silks and on Saturday the Flower Alley filly Clafoutis – named after a popular French fruity dessert – can register a personal hat-trick when she takes on eight opponents. Interestingly, another tasty treat in champion Summer Pudding was victorious in this event in 2019.

Mike de Kock has been very bullish in his earlier feedback about Clafoutis, who has her fifth start on Saturday. The master trainer has suggested that Clafoutis is expected to come into her own over the classic trips and she’s progressive in her work – ‘so she’s definitely one for the notebook’. The full-sister to Justin Snaith’s Listed winning stayer Bayberry is a daughter of Danehill Dancer daughter Berry Blaze, who was

talented, though a bit disappointing on the racetrack. But her progeny is doing her proud, and Clafoutis can carry the Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritfontein flag in a race where they bred 5 of the 9 runners. Sean Tarry previously won this race in 2016 with Smiling Blue Eyes who was ridden by Grant van Niekerk, and the former champion conditioner saddles Querari daughter Marigold Hotel who caught the

eye when second in the Gr3 Starling Stakes last time. She raced up with the gallop there and gunned smartly late to go down to KZN raider One Night In Paris. She has a slightly awkward draw to beat but is fit and well and looks the one to beat on the official ratings. Follow Me finished 2,25 lengths behind Marigold Hotel last time. The pair meet on the same weight terms today and she may have to settle for the same result. She won her only

attempt over this track and trip and should strip much fitter. Barend Botes and Yolande Vosloo came within a heartbeat of winning the Victory Moon Stakes with Gold Pheasant last Saturday and hat-trick seeking Eternity Ring could lift their spirits. The tongue-tie seems to have worked for the daughter of Ideal World and Muzi Yeni will be keen to get one back here.

Clocking It Phumelela is going to trial earlier starting times for race meetings on the Highveld during summer with a view to reducing the number of races cancelled because of traditional late-afternoon thunderstorms in the region.

The impact on TAB pools of race meetings starting and finishing earlier will be carefully monitored during the trial period to ascertain whether such timeframes suit the needs of TAB customers. The trial will begin with the race meeting at the Vaal on

Thursday 18 November. The first race will go off at 11h00 with the ninth and last race at 15h35, after which TAB will operate betting pools on races in the UK and at Meydan in Dubai.

Candiese Lenferna

A SUPER SATURDAY FOR A SALE! v

Bloodstock South Africa will host the 2021 November Two Year Old Sale at the TBA Sales Complex at Gosforth Park in Johannesburg on Saturday 20 November. A quality group of 156 two-year-olds have been accepted for this sale, with many of South Africa's top breeders also wellrepresented. There are a 47 stallions of choice and this gives everyone an opportunity to find a 2 year old they love by a stallion they love! Top stallions with offspring at the one day auction include Gimmethegreenlight, Ideal World, Master Of My Fate, Querari, Silvano, Var, Vercingetorix and What A Winter, while promising sires like Act Of War, Futura, Rafeef, The United States, William Longsword and Willow Magic are also represented. The likes of Canford Cliffs, Erupt, Gold Standard, Rabada and Wings Of Desire will all have members of their first local crop on offer at this auction.

Among the potential standouts on sale include • a What A Winter full-sister to Gr2 winner Celestial Love • a Rafeef colt out of Scarlet Lady winner Louisiana • a William Longsword colt whose stakes winning dam is a half-sister to Act Of War • a What A Winter three-parts sister to Gr2 winner Magical Wonderland • a Rabada half-brother to East Cape Guineas/Derby winner Jaeger Moon • a Querari filly from the family of Kommetdieding • a Querari colt out of Gr1 winner On Her Toes • a The United States half-sister to Gr2 Cape Merchants winner Triptique • a Gimmethegreenlight colt out of a stakes winning daughter of Singspiel • a Rafeef colt from the family of All Is Secret, Bela-Bela and Rabiya

• a Master Of My Fate half-sister to millionaire Matador Man • a Futura filly whose dam is a sister to the dam of She's A Keeper • a What A Winter half-sister to dual graded stakes winner Shango • a Vercingetorix half-brother to Oaks Trial winner Aryaam • a Mambo In Seattle halfsister to Gr2 Charity Mile winner Bezanova • a What A Winter half-brother to Gr2 winner Caya Coco • a Silvano colt whose dam is a winning half-sister to Sing Out Loud • a Vercingetorix three-parts sister to champion Nebraas • a half sister, by The United States, to Gr1 Cape Guineas winner Russian Rock Please click here to read our lot-by-lot snapshot of each of the 2yo’s on sale

2022 – Big Year Ahead South Africa’s longest established thoroughbred sales company Bloodstock South Africa recently announced sensational new incentives for their 2022 sales. The very popular BSA Value Added Maiden Juvenile Stakes Programme for 2yo’s has proven a boon for owners and R10 million

will be up for grabs, with 100 races of R100 000 each, for 2022 sale graduates.

of both sexes and hosted at Kenilworth, Hollywoodbets Greyville and Turffontein.

That’s an extraordinary R10 million injection for owners. The BSA Race Series offers owners R2,4 million by way of six R400 000 races for all graduates of the BSA 2022 sales.

For the convenience of vendors and buyers, the BSA live Sales Calendar for 2022 has been published and commences with the Cape Yearling Sale at Kenilworth on 27 February 2022.

These races will be contested separately for 3yo’s

CLIFTON’S CLASS OF 2021 v

12 Peter Blyth of Clifton Stud

Candiese Lenferna

Clifton will be offering a large draft at this year's auction, headed by two-year-olds sired by all of Crusade, Flower Alley, Flying The Flag, Mambo In Seattle and Master Of My Fate. The farm's resident sire Mambo In Seattle is responsible for seven lots in Clifton Stud's consignment including the well bred filly Ana In Seattle (Lot 113). The latter is a half-sister to two winners notably Gr2 Charity Mile winner, and millionaire, Bezanova, and further back, this is the same family as former Gr1 Vodacom Durban July winner, Power King among others.

The latter, a filly out of a three time winning daughter of Kahal, is a half-sister to the very smart performer Royal Wulff and is from the family of graded stakes winners Key Decision and Pass The Line.

Kahal, while Williamthefighter (Lot 116) is a Crusade colt out of a winning daughter of Irish Oaks heroine Vintage Tipple, and he hails from the same female line as Melbourne Cup victor Vintage Crop.

Red hot sire Master Of My Fate has two lots on offer-Fashion Mistress (Lot 2) is a filly whose three time winning dam is a half-sister to three graded stakes winners, while Destiny Of Souls (Lot 111) is a filly whose dam is a sister in blood to Gr1 winner Real Princess.

Acacia's Blossom (Lot 150) is a Flower Alley filly whose four time winning dam (by outstanding sire Hussonet) hails from the immediate family of legendary racemare and producer Miesque.

Iron Fist (Lot 105) is a Flying The Flag colt whose dam is a full-sister to Gr2 Joburg Spring Challenge winner Prince Of Candiese Lenferna

Prominent KwaZulu-Natal nursery, Clifton Stud, will be strongly represented at next Saturday;s November Two Year Old Sale.

Ana In Seattle also hails from the same family as the Mambo In Seattle sired Oaks Trial winner Bize, making her a very close relative of that filly indeed. Other notable lots by Mambo In Seattle include Summer Fling (Lot 48), a half-sister to 3 winners including Champion Juvenile Cup runner up Scarborough Fair, Mister Lincoln (Lot 76), a colt from the same family as champions Gabor and Legislate, and Montana Nymph (Lot 136).

Summerview’s Colleen & Gary de Klerk

Matador Man Sibling The Standout v

The Summerview Stud will be offering some well related lots at this year's November Two Year Old Sale. The KwaZulu-Natal farm will be consigning twoyear-olds sired by all of Coup De Grace, Crusade, Flying The Flag, Master Of My Fate, Rabada and the sensational Vercingetorix at November's auction. Writteninthesand (Lot 73) is a filly bound to have her share of admirers -not only is she by the very much in vogue Master Of My Fate, but she is also a half-sister to millionaire and Listed Christmas Handicap/Listed Secretariat Stakes winner Matador Man. This

beautifully bred filly is out of smart racemare Sahara, a four time winner who was runner up in all of the Gr2 KZN Fillies Guineas, Gr3 Umzimkhulu Stakes and G3 Flamboyant Stakes. Equus Champion and boom sire Vercingetorix is represented in Summerview's draft by Muharib (Lot 110) a half-brother to Listed Oaks Trial winner Aryaam who hails from the same female line as Irish Oaks winner Lailani, while short-lived Middle Park Stakes winner Crusade's sole lot on offer is Forged Steel (Lot 51). The latter, a colt from the same family as champions Jay Peg and Kochka, is a half-brother to three winners

including the stakes placed Green Lantern. Warrior Brave (Lot 19), a colt from the first crop of dual Gr1 winner Rabada, is out of National Assembly's G3 winning daughter La Pucelle, while Liberty Flag (Lot 129) is a Flying The Flag filly out of Kahal's stakes winning daughter Cante Libre. A half-brother to recent winner Heart Of Harlem, Grand Finale (Lot 14) is a son of dual graded stakes winner Coup De Grace from the family of world class sprinter Shea Shea, with this colt's granddam a dual stakes winning daughter of multiple champion sire Captain Al.

SIMPLY SPARKLING! v

18 Kabelo Matsunyane (red cap) gets Sparkling Water up to beat Golden Pheasant (Muzi Yeni, orange cap) and Astrix (Warren Kennedy) in a thriller

Cover Image Chase Maujean and Bingwa – major Gauteng Summer Cup contenders. Image courtesy of Chase Liebenberg JC Photos

Mike de Kock strengthened his 2021 Gauteng Summer Cup hand when his Silvano filly Sparkling Water completed the perfect big race prep to win the R200 000 Gr3 Victory Moon Stakes with a sensational late run at Turffontein on Saturday. While Barend Botes and Yolande Vosloo must have been making their way down the stairs to the winner’s enclosure with the consistent 7yo Golden Pheasant (12-1) looking all over a winner in the final stages, Kabelo Matsunyane had other ideas as he launched Sparkling Water down the outside with a storming run. As they went to the post, Sparkling Water (3-1) took full advantage of her 50kg weight and nabbed the old soldier in

a thriller on the line to gain the advantage by a head in a time of 111,19 secs.

She was by Dansili out of Jouet and raced 17 times for six wins from 1160m -1900m.

This was Mike de Kock’s fourth win in the 1800m feature in the last ten years.

Espumanti won two Gr2 races and was Gr1-placed three times, including a second to superstar Beach

The only non Summer Cup entry, Astrix (3-1) was given every chance and stayed on gallantly to be beaten a neck into third. Fourth-placed Flying Carpet (6-1) threatened up the straight and could be some value in three weeks’ time. The Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein-bred winner is by the deceased champion Silvano (Lomitas) and is a second foal of the wellperformed Espumanti, who raced for De Kock and retired after pulling up lame in the July in 2014.

Beauty in the 2012 Garden Province Stakes. Sparkling Water has won 4 races with 5 places from 9 starts for stakes of R511 629. It will be nice to see Kabelo Matsunyane retain the engagement for the Summer Cup after such a polished performance today!

The Merits SPARKLING WATER remains unchanged on a rating of 109 after she captured the Grade 3 Victory Moon Stakes over 1800m on the Turffontein standside track on Saturday. The Handicappers were of the view that 3rd placed ASTRIX made for the best line horse here, which leaves him unchanged on a mark of 112. In assessing the race this way, SPARKLING WATER only runs to a rating of 106,

hence her unaltered rating. The only other increase was for runner-up GOLDEN PHEASANT, who goes from 111 to 112, seven horses received a ratings’ drop. FLYING CARPET dropped from 109 to 107, SECOND BASE is down from 120 to 117, MATTERHORN was trimmed from 102 to 101, EXPRESSFROMTHEUS drops from 118 to 115, SAVANNAH STORM is down to 100 from 106, RUNNING 20

BRAVE is down from 115 to 113, and lastly TREE TUMBO was dropped to 107 from 108. There was no drop for PAMUSHANA’S PRIDE as he was effectively eased out of the race. The Handicappers felt it was impossible to reassess this runner under these circumstances and believe they have no choice but to leave him unchanged on a mark of 116.

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SUMMER CUP STAKE DOUBLES

World Sports Betting will sponsor this year’s Gauteng Summer Cup. The Gr1 race run over 2000m at Turffontein on Saturday 27 November will be known as the World Sports Betting presents the Gauteng Summer Cup.

“It complements our racing sponsorships very well as we are weeks away from our flagship Western Cape race, the World Sports Betting Fillies Guineas, and we also have the Vaal extravaganza, the World Sports Betting Grand Heritage coming up.

“WSB has always been, and will always be, committed to the sport and we applaud the Phumelela team on their recent efforts. We are proud play our part in growing racing once again.We thank all of our loyal supporters, and we look forward to a great day’s racing.” There are five other feature races on the day, the Dingaans for three-year-olds and the Ipi Tombe Challenge for fillies and mares, both JC Photos

The prizemoney is to be increased from R1 million to R2 million, making it the first feature in the country to return to its pre-covid stake.

Ryno du Plessis, Chief Marketing Officer for the sponsors said: “World Sports Betting is proud to once again have our name attached to the Highveld’s biggest race.

The Victory Moon Stakes finish on Saturday – all the top three on the log 24

Grade 2 races over 1600m, the Merchants and Magnolia Handicap for fillies and mares, both Grade 3 events over 1160m, and the Listed Racing Association Handicap over 3200m. Patrick Davis, Racing Executive for Phumelela, thanked World Sports Betting for their sponsorship. “Their involvement has enabled us to increase the stake to R2-million. It appears we have attracted a top-class field this year and with the other features on the day, we are looking forward to fantastic day of racing.”

The sponsors also have a few other plans for the day. “WSB account holders can look forward to great promotions as always and we will be working closely with the Phumelela team to make the day a huge success.

with all promotions and event news,” added Du Plessis. The final field for the Gauteng Summer Cup will be announced on Monday 22 November.

“Follow us on social media and if you haven’t yet sign up today at wsb.co.za to stay up to date

World Sports Betting presents the Gauteng Summer Cup will be covered live on SABC.

Latest Big Race Log There have been a number of adjustments to the latest Gauteng Summer Cup log this week. Astrix, rated 112, has been supplemented into the World Sports Betting presents the Gauteng Summer Cup and is positioned 12th on the log after placing in both the OnamissionMile and the Victory Moon Stakes. Victory Moon Stakes winner Sparkling Water improved her position from 12th to 9th, despite not receiving an adjustment to her merit

rating. She was very well-in at the weights in the Victory Moon and as such, did not need to run above her rating to win that Grade 3 event. Golden Pheasant showed more improvement, albeit at the age of seven, when running a close 2nd in the Victory Moon and accordingly improved his position from 15th to 11th. The other notable mover is Al Muthana, rated 104, who has been included in the top 20 after the demotion of both Running Brave and Tree Tumbo for their disappointing showings over the past weekend. 25

Declarations for the meeting and the announcements of the weights have been moved to 22 November so that trainers will be able see the draws for the Cape Fillies Guineas, which take place on that day, before deciding where to run certain of the leading horses. Please click here to see the big race log

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THE RHYTHM OF THE RAIN v

28 Waterberry Lane (Keagan de Melo) is led in by Tembinkosi ‘Young One’ Alberd Skeyi & Bulelani ‘Steve’ Thwalani

‘Wouldn't it be fitting if Waterberry Lane became his much-missed sire's first Gr1 winner and also reward his 90-year-old owner with a first success in the time-honoured classic…?’ 29

With all the focus justifiably on the stakes races at last weekend's Kenilworth meeting, it would be easy to dismiss Waterberry Lane's sparkling win in the final race of the day. A juvenile winner of the Gr2 Gold Bracelet, the talented three-year-old has yet to taste defeat in two starts this season. He opened his sophomore campaign on a winning note when making all over 1400m at Durbanville early last month and im - pressed in his first appear - ance at Kenilworth, winning with the minimum of fuss over the same distance In the post-race interview, trainer Dean Kannemeyer makes no secret of the fact that he rates his charge highly: "It was a good win first time out at Durbanville from the front, considering no one wanted to set the pace. This time I told my jockey, whatever you do, don't take this horse to the front. He is a colt with a lot of potential and I'm earmarking the Guineas for him. He is growing the right way and has furnished well. There is a lot of Fort Wood about him." Dean was of course referring to the colt's dam Gain Ground, a daughter of the champion stallion, who ruled

supreme at Mauritzfontein Stud. Waterberry Lane was bred by sister stud Wilgerbosdrift and was purchased at last year's Mistico Sale. "Mr Rattray said to me, just find me a nice horse and he fitted the bill. He was a very nice colt, with a particularly good hind leg." Waterberry Lane races for stalwart owners Mike and Norma Rattray, whose familiar red and white quartered silks have been worn with distinction by such standouts as Horse of the Year recipients Yard-Arm, Celtic Grove and Rainbow Bridge. Rattray is of course the founder

and past-owner of the famed Lammerskraal Stud, where Waterberry Lane's grandam Forge Ahead was bred. By Parade Leader,she is a half-sister to the Champion stayer Long Dollar and to the stakes winners Polar Bound and Bound To Travel. Waterberry Lane hails from the penultimate crop of the short-lived Soft Falling Rain. The son of National Assembly entered stud at Wilgerbosdrift following a star-studded career during which he proved himself a world class-sprinter-miler. Owned by Shadwell and trained throughout his career by Mike de Kock, he was JC Photos

The ill-fated Soft Falling Rain in action

voted the country’s champion juvenile following an undefeated four-race season, the highlight of which a fluent victory in the Gr1 SA Nursery at Turffontein. Exported to Dubai, he stretched his perfect record to seven with impressive scores in the Gr2 Godolphin Mile, Gr3 UAE 2000 Guineas and Guineas Trial. Off the track for eight months, he tasted defeat for the first time in his English debut when runnerup in the Gr2 Hungerford Stakes. He promptly bounced back in the Gr2 Nayef Joel Stakes at Newmarket and in what was for many his finest racetrack performance, the colt displayed a devastating turn of foot to leave his rivals trailing.

Sadly, Softly Falling Rain’s stud career proved all too brief and was limited to just four crops before his untimely death at the age of just nine. Quick to make an impact, he wired 14 individual first crop winners, amongst which the Gr2 Debutante victress Montreal Mist and Gr2-placed duo Gin Fizz and Alramz. Soft Falling Rain has since added to that Waterberry Lane, fellow Gr2 winner Heavens Girl and Gr3 winner World Radar. Listed stakes winner Pray For Rain chased home champion Tempting Fate in the Gr1 Gold Medallion, while the admirable Marmara Sea put together a faultless-eight-race win streak which included the first of two renewals of the Listed

Memorial Mile. According to his trainer, the Gr2 Concorde Cup on 20 November could serve as the next stepping stone towards the Guineas for Waterberry Lane. Wouldn't it be fitting if Waterberry Lane became his much-missed sire's first Gr1 winner and also reward his 90-year-old owner with a first success in the time-honoured classic?

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‘RACING FACING REALITIES’ - DAVIS v

Chase Liebenberg

Suggestions that 200 races, or 25 Gauteng meetings, have been cut in the yet-tobe-completed 2022 fixtures roster have some trainers very concerned. Talk of increasing stakes has been rejected as window dressing and that effectively the stakes pot on offer is less.

population on the Highveld has dropped from around 2500 pre COVID to just over 1700 according to a recent survey. The Western Cape and Eastern Cape horse populations have also declined in similar vein,” said Davis as he pointed can clearly be seen in the average fields sizes in 2021 which are as follows year to date:

“Small trainers are practically buggered,” suggests a Gauteng conditioner.

- Highveld 9,4 - W Cape 8,8 - E Cape 10

The Sporting Post asked Phumelela Racing Executive Patrick Davis for a response.

“These reduced field sizes are negatively impacting tote turnovers and as such the operators need to take action to try to reverse this trend – as the tote largely funds the sport of horseracing. To simply continue as things are is not feasible,” he adds sombrely.

“The three Racing Operators are in the process of reviewing the 2022 Fixture List on the back of the significant decline in the horse population following the economic impact of COVID-19. The horse

Due to the need to publish race programmes for the first part

of 2022, the operators have agreed to release the revised fixture list for the first part of 2022 (Jan to Apr) only. Currently fixtures are only published up to April 2022 “The review of the balance of the year is ongoing and nothing has been confirmed beyond April,” adds Davis. He says that a reduced fixture list will enable higher stakes per race to be paid. “The total stakes pots per region under 4Racing still need to be finalised – but as everyone is aware, we are still awaiting the transfer of the Phumelela business to 4Racing. The world is in a very different place economically post COVID lockdowns – so an element of reality needs to be faced in this regard,” he concluded.

The Gauteng racetime debate and stakeholder outcry that was stoked again by the early abandonment of last Thursday’s Vaal racemeeting due to the presence of lightning, has resulted in action being taken. The Sporting Post has learnt from a prominent owner that the Vaal meeting of 18 November will be run on an experimental basis, with the first race likely to go off at 11h00, with 35 minute intervals thereafter. Apparently the chief ‘factors’ and concerns taken into account by the racing oerators when keeping local

Test Meeting racemeetings scheduled for a lunch-time start, despite the weather threat, is international commingling commitments, and the perception that punters habitually take their bets at lunch-time and on their way home. v

But with the advancement of technology and the changes in lifestyle brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, many businesses have adapted their traditional policies, with consumers also changing their patterns. On Election Day Gold Circle started their racemeeting early to accommodate voters. So it is encouraging to learn

that 4Racing will be applying some science rather than relying on long-held untested perceptions, and testing the market by experimenting on 18 November. The turnovers for that meeting can then be compared to recent historical mid-month numbers, and weighed up against the frustration and also the inevitable loss of races due to weather – which is definitely not helping beleaguered tote turnovers.

JC Photos

HELLO SAYS GOODBYE 38

Hello Winter Hello charges home under Warren Kennedy in a super return run

Returning from a break of 21 weeks, former Capebased mare Hello Winter Hello looked like she had been parachuted into the Listed Gardenia Stakes at the 200m as she scorched to a resounding victory at Turffontein on Saturday. Having her first start for Johan Janse van Vuuren, the What A Winter daughter now races in the interests of father-son duo of Lawrence and Jarryd Wernars and Harry Wilson, and showed she is more than value for the R275 000 paid for her by Vermaak Equine when offered on the CTS Select Fillies For Stud Online Sale in July

HELLO WINTER HELLO has had her rating raised from 104 to 110 after she made a winning Highveld debut in the Listed Gardenia Stakes for fillies and mares over the Turffontein 1000m straight course on Saturday. The consistent 5th placed MIND READER was used as the line horse, leaving

Starting at 10-1, Hello Winter Hello, already a dual stakes winner, bounded clear in the final stages of the 1000m feature to beat Corne Spies’ gallant Singforafa (16-1) by 2 lengths in a time of 57,23 secs. The lightly-raced 3yo Lucy English (2-1) was not disgraced a half length back in third. Interestingly, it was almost a year ago to the day that Hello Winter Hello had won the Listed Laisserfaire Stakes for her former conditioner Adam Marcus and owners Danny and Ronel Collins at Kenilworth. This was the in-form Warren

The Merits

her unchanged on a mark of 105. In assessing the race this way, 8th finisher BEFORE THE DAWN also runs to her rating of 95, effectively making her a line horse as well. Other ratings increases were for 3rd placed LUCY ENGLISH, who is up from 88 to 97, and for BELLA CHICA,

Kennedy’s third winner of the day. Hello Winter Hello, originally purchased R140 000 as a weanling from the 2017 CTS Select Mares Weanlings & Fillies for Stud Sale, was bred by Favour Stud. She is a daughter of Drakenstein’s triple Equus Champion What A Winter (Western Winter) and is out of the Dominion Royale mare I’m Like Hello. Hello Winter Hello has won 5 races with 7 places from 16 starts for stakes of R384 675.

who is up from 101 to 105. TRUE TO LIFE and NAARAH dropped 2 pounds each from 118 to 116 and 97 to 95 respectively while RAPID FIRE dropped only dropped 1 pound from 102 to 101.

SNAITH'S SILVER DREAM RACER! v

Chase Liebenberg

Touted as a potential Equus Champion last term, Justin Snaith’s favourite stayer Silver Host got his season off to a flyer with a convincing victory in Saturday’s R85 000 Listed Woolavington Stakes at Kenilworth. Don’t look back – you’re not headed that way. Maybe that’s the best advice for Justin Snaith after the SA Champion trainer recounted the bad luck hoodoo that plagued the Drakenstein-bred 5yo Silver Host on the East Coast last season. On Saturday the smashing son of Silvano rounded off a feature double for his late multiple champion sire – Sparkling Water won the Victory Moon an hour earlier

– and gave Snaith the second leg of a very satisfying feature double. Anse Lazio made the pace in a muddling sort of way with Silver Host stalking him all the way around the 2400m track. Into the straight, Silver Host (16-10) showed vigour and enthusiasm after his 14 week break as he cruised clear to hold off the challenge of Crimson King (5-2) by 1,50 lengths in a time of 153,81 secs. Anse Lazio (8-1) was game in third, a further 2,25 lengths back. Now a winner of 6 races with 7 places from his 18 starts, Silver Host has accumulated R669 325 in stakes – quite some way

yet off his sale price ticket. He is a son of deceased multiple champion Silvano (Lomitas) out of the French Deputy mare Hosta – a US-bred half sister to Gr1 winner Colstar (Opening Verse). Bred by Drakenstein, and raced in partnership by the top breeders, with Nic Johnsson and Nancy Hossack, Silver Host was a R2,6 million National Yearling Sale graduate. Depending on the whims of Lady Luck, he should pay to follow in staying races over ground this season.

The Merits SILVER HOST has had his rating increased from 112 to 115 following his fluent success in the Listed Woolavington Stakes over 2400m at Kenilworth on Saturday.

as the line horse, leaving him on a mark of 103.

Here it was 3rd placed ANSE LAZIO who was used

However, the specific conditions of the event do not

It should be noted that, in assessing the race this way, 2nd finisher CRIMSON KING achieves a mark of 112.

allow for an increase in the rating of any horse except the winner, and accordingly CRIMSON KING remains unaltered on a mark of 110. The only ratings drop was for DOUBLEMINT, who is down from 114 to 111.

46 Anton Marcus has Capitana in control as Keep The Lights On (Luyolo Mxothwa) chases late

Chase Liebenberg

RIDGEMONT ARE FLYING 47

The Ridgemont team have started the Cape summer with a flourish and their victory march continued at Kenilworth on Saturday, courtesy of the beautifullybred Capitana who was an emphatic winner of the R85 000 Listed Laisserfaire Stakes. The 1100m contest is named in honour of the Danehill champion Laisserfaire and boasts some really smart winners over the years. While Capitana has listed stakes credits to her name, the in-form Brett Crawford declared that plans are afoot to secure graded status for the well-bred and handsomely talented speedster.

And the team must feel upbeat about that prospect after the 5yo came out shunting after a 14 week break. Settled in midfield by Anton Marcus, Capitana (5-2) was angled out for a run at the 300m and turned on the jets for a half length victory in a time of 65,44 secs. Keep The Lights On (20-1) under replacement rider Luyolo Mxothwa came out of the pack to chase the favourite home, with Hawker Typhoon (20-1) running a cracker from way back after being held up for a clear run between the 350m and the 300m. With her blood, Capitana will hold plenty of appeal when she retires to the Ridgemont paddocks.

The daughter of a multiple champion sire, her dam Exotic, who won at 2400m, is a Galileo daughter of Irish Oaks runner-up Ice Queen. Bred by Ridgemont – who also claim breeding rights on the impressive Cape Mile winner Warrior – Capitana traces back directly in female line to Mill Princess (Mill Reef), the dam of Breeders’ Cup Mile winner and champion sire Last Tycoon and fourth dam of promising young South African sire, The United States. Capitana has won 6 races with 6 places from 13 starts for stakes of R304 175.

The Merits CAPITANA has seen her rating climb from 101 to 106 after she won the Listed Laisserfaire Stakes (handicap) for fillies and mares over 1100m at Kenilworth on Saturday. Here it was 4th finisher

PHIL’S DANCER who was considered to make for the best line horse, seeing as she is a highly consistent performer who competed with CAPITANA for a third race in succession, which leaves her unchanged on a rating of 103.

There were increases also for runner-up KEEP THE LIGHTS ON, who goes from 99 to 103, and for 3rd finisher HAWKER TYPHOON, who was raised from 98 to 100. IRIS is dropped to 95 from 97.

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Future Stars proudly sponsored by Bush.

BE U - STAY HEALTHY BUSH - IT'S A LIFESTYLE 51

WARRIOR WIELDS THE POWER v

Grant van Niekerk (green cap) steers Warrior to victory as Anton Marcus and the consistent Rascallion chase hard – Kommetdieding is to the far left under Gavin Lerena With the popular Vodacom Durban July winner Kommetdieding failing to produce a fairytale season debut, Justin Snaith saddled a rare 14-1 winner when the Ridgemont-bred Warrior won the

#Thisisracing Cape Mile at a sunny Kenilworth on Saturday. While Kommetdieding ran on well for third, and was definitely not disgraced in defeat, Warrior benefitted from an industrious 52

ride by the mercurial Grant van Niekerk, who always had his mount in contention after Rockin’ Ringo and Captain Flinders had done the early bidding. Despite drifting outwards late

Chase Liebenberg

in the race, Warrior showed no ring rustiness after his 24 week break and stayed on best for a half length victory over perennial but uber consistent bridesmaid Rascallion (5-1).

Warrior clocked 98,68 secs for the mile. Odds-on favourite Kommetdieding was given a confident and quiet ride under his 62kg topweight by Gavin Lerena and ran on steadily 53

for third, three quarters of a length back. He remains on target for the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate and the Cape Met. Winner of last season’s Gr3 World Sports Betting Variety

Club Mile, Warrior was having his first start since finishing fifth in the Gr3 WSB Legal Eagle Stakes in May.

Out of the Commands twice-winning mare Nona In Command, the Ridgemont Highlands-bred Warrior is a half brother to Jackson’s very smart stakes winner Pretty Young Thing.

A winner of 4 races with 2 places from his 8 starts, Warrior took his stakes total to R222 050.

He was 2014/15 SA Horse Of The Year Futura’s top lot when sold off the 2019 Cape Premier Yearling Sale and knocked down to Peter Doyle and Diane Nagle for R1,2 million.

Supreme Sale! Dual Gr1 winner Queen Supreme ran no kind of race in Saturday’s Breeders Cup Filly & Mare Turf at Del Mar but the top-class paddock prospect has since been purchased by the Kia Ora Stud for $900 000 at the Fasig-Tipton November Sale. After bidding by Australian

and Japanese agents, the 5yo daughter of Exceed And Excel found a new home with the China Horse Club and is likely to go to Kia Ora Stud in New South Wales. Bred by Thomas Hassett, Queen Supreme is a daughter Exceed And Excel out of the unraced Gone West mare Call Later.

Queen Supreme was purchased as a yearling at Goffs by Form Bloodstock obo Markus Jooste’s Mayfair Speculators for €130 000. Following a dispersal sale, she found her way – again at Form’s instigation- to the De Kock yard where she raced in a partnership.

A NATURAL! v

Recent A$15 million The Everest winner Nature Strip (Nicconi) reaffirmed his status as the world’s best sprinter with a demolition job in Saturday’s Gr1 Darley Sprint Classic at Flemington. Providing the opening leg of a Gr1 double for jockey James McDonald, the Inglis Melbourne Premier graduate was in a race of his own down the famous Flemington straight, securing a seventh Gr1 win for the Golden Grove-offered son of Widden Stud’s Victorian-based stallion Nicconi (Bianconi-Nicola Lass, by Scenic). The triumph took his prizemoney through the A$16 million barrier.

PAY-PAY Hollywoodbets paid all single and multiple winning bets on both the first and second placed finishers in the Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf run at Del Mar on Friday. A spokesman for SA’s leading sportsbook operator confirmed this to the Sporting Post on Saturday morning after the Godolphin colt Modern Games won the prestigious feature after being scratched pre-race.The Charlie Appleby-trained race favourite was withdrawn from the US$2m feature after an incident at the barriers. With the clearance from the on-course vets, Modern Games was allowed to take part in the race – despite being a non-runner from a betting perspective. This saw the decision by stewards – as permitted by the rules in the jurisdiction – in allowing the colt to race for prizemoney only.

FINAL ISN’T ALWAYS FINAL In an unprecedented move, the eighth race for the Kenilworth Saturday 13 November card was amended after fields were published and declared ‘final’ for the meeting. The Sporting Post queried the National Racing Bureau and the National Horseracing Authority after the Justin Snaith-trained Silver Darling was brought into the eighth race over four hours after the final fields were published by the NRB. National Racing Bureau Manager Aveen Sewpersad told the Sporting Post that ‘there was some miscommunication that led to this error’. The Trainer was given the incorrect information that his horse will carry 68kg instead of 61kg if we 55 combined as per the rules,” he added. Mr Sewpersad confirmed that the change was ‘at the Operators discretion and can be corrected prior to the publishing of publications’.

GET WELL SOON! v

Apprentice Thabiso Gumede’s operation on his fractured right leg after a horrific fall in the final race at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Sunday appears to have been a success. The talented 20 year old rider was rushed to hospital in severe pain after he was dislodged from his mount Prince Tyrion at the 450m. A subsequent Stipes inspection of the saddle established that the fittings which attach the stirrup iron to the saddle became detached on the right side. Speaking to the Sporting Post on Tuesday, Thabiso’s sponsor Candiese Lenferna said that her favourite jockey was no longer in pain and hopes to be discharged in the next 48 hours. “He was remarkably perky,” said the Equus Award -winning photographer, whose youngest daughter Mia sent Thabs some fan mail via a hand-drawn get-well-soon card. Late last month Gumede rode his 60th career which entitled him to his SA Jockey Academy white blazer. He is due to come out of his time this year.

FOUR FOR FATE Former SA star Twist Of Fate won the Champ de Mars feature on Sunday to contribute to an impressive quartet of winners on the day for his Varsfontein homebred sire, Master Of My Fate. With 61kg on his back, Twist Of Fate proved a lot better than his two opponents to register a second victory on Mauritius soil. Rye Joorawon rode the winner for Vincent Allet. Two races later Master Of My Fate’s gelded son Eagles Vision landed the final race on the card. Two of Master Of My Fate’s Sunday winners came at Hollywoodbets Greyville and it was his flashy grey son After The Rain who had the tongues wagging as he made it four wins in a row. The Gareth Van Zyl trained colt, under a well judged ride from Smanga Khumalo, went out to make the running in the www.tabgold.co.za Pinnacle Stakes at his first try at a mile. He could find himself in the Cape summer big league. Bred by the Limestone Thoroughbred Trust, After The Rain is out of the Medaaly mare Swallow Flight. Master Of My Fate’s second success at Hollywoodbets Greyville came when his daughter Top Me Up Holly won Sunday’s sixth race, the Gold Circle Racing Youtube Channel FM 81 Handicap over 1800m, for the Hollywood Syndicate.

ELITE STATUS The Saudi Cup, the world’s richest race, will be run as Group 1 event for the first time on February 26 2022. Like the first two runnings of the Dubai World Cup in 1996 and 1997, the $20m contest on dirt at King Abdulaziz racecourse in Riyadh was ineligible for Gr1 status in its first two seasons, when the race was won by Maximum Security and Mishriff. However, its immediate promotion to Gr1 level was confirmed by the 56 International Federation of Horseracing Authorities council meeting in Paris last month.

Pauline Herman

Kelly Mitchley – doing what she loves most

A RIDER BEFORE SHE COULD TALK! Meet Kelly Mitchley, one of South Africa’s busiest and most experienced horsewoman. She balances her day between managing the highly successful Johan Janse van Vuuren satellite yard at Fairview and running her own rehoming operation on her family’s De La Ranch, just 3km away from the Nelson Mandela Bay Racing headquarters. While only 25 years old on 27 June, Kelly has horses

galloping through her veins and it’s difficult to imagine time when she didn’t have a bridle in her hand. And for her relative youth, her experience in racing yards makes her a valuable asset to any trainer. She has worked for Justin Snaith, Corne Spies, Gavin Smith and helped out at Yvette Bremner during the top lady trainer’s tenure. “I have been fortunate to have 58

worked for top trainers who have taught me plenty. I originally became a stable employee at Gavin Smith and was with him for four years. And then moved to Corne Spies Racing and worked there for two years. I got a phone call from Jonathan Snaith and they offered me the job to run their PE Satellite yard, which meant I had to then write my Assistant Trainers licence. I worked for the Snaiths for almost three years but unfortunately they

eventually closed their PE yard. I moved to Cape Town for four months to work for Snaith Racing. But I really was just too far away from my family and De La Ranch Equestrian, so I decided I needed to come home.” Kelly recalls that on her return she helped out at the Yvette Bremner Yard for a year. “Then in December last year I got a phone call from Mr Johan Van Vuuren asking if I could start as Assistant Trainer in January this year to run his Fairview yard. I grabbed the opportunity and we now have about 13 horses at the yard.”

She says that as it’s a fairly small operation, she works from about 07h00 in the morning to 10h30.

stops learning around horses, she values every ounce of skill and knowledge imparted over the years.

“I love riding work every morning for Johan and the Tara Laing Racing Stables team. Then I am off to De La Ranch Equestrian from 11h00 until 13h00 and then start at the stables again from 14h00 to 16h00. For a small string I believe the Janse van Vuuren horses hold their own on the racecourse, and I really have to thank Johan Janse van Vuuren Racing and all their owners for allowing me this great opportunity,” she says sincerely.

And it all started in the Mitchley household.

While she says one never

59 Susan Chamberlain schooling recently retired King Saladin

“My journey started when my mom was 6 months pregnant with me – she had already bought me two ponies and a horse – so no pressure! So as far back as I can remember, there has always been a love for horses, as I have come from a family that has always had horses. Both my Mum and late Dad used to ride. I can't actually remember a time in my life having any other interests but horses. I started going to

shows and I have had some really very special horses throughout my life,” she tells the Sporting Post in what is a rare interview. We asked the Westering High School graduate her why she is so low profile? “Horses are a 24/7 commitment and passion. I don’t have much time to talk,” she laughs. Kelly has her own house on De La Ranch and lives on the beautiful farm with her Mum and partner Clement, her sister Paige, and Mum’s ‘left and right hand’, Vonnie. She tells that she got her foot

into the racing door as Mum had known former trainer Grant Paddock for many years. “My friend Joshua Sutton and I went to stables before school to ride work every morning. I absolutely loved it! And then we all went to races one Friday at Arlington after school. I was hooked!” she laughs. Kelly talks about her two ‘babies’ that she has received off the track and have become part of her life. “Green for Go (aka Max A Million), a horse my mom chose from the racecourse from Grant Paddock Racing. I got him twelve years ago as a colt and only gelded him at the

age of 13. He is now 15 years old. Another special horse I was given in 2015 was from Mr Fred Crabbia and Emma Rorke. Money is now 13 years old and both of them are retired here on my farm.” It was during the time that Kelly worked for Gavin Smith that she sadly lost her father in 2013. “It was a devastating time for my family and I,” she reflects. At the time Gavin Smith had some horses retiring and a friend and Kelly started finding homes for them. It was to be the birth of her

rehoming operation!

off at De La Ranch.

“We moved horses from the racecourse to my mom's farm and it gained momentum. I have now been owner of this business for the past 8 years! And we have grown. Susan Chamberlain joined the team 2 years ago and she rides a lot of the horses. She also does the contracts with the clients. We also have Jorja Rohrich riding for us and she joined in January 2021. I've been really lucky to have Susan and Jorja part of my De La Ranch Team and my Mum is a massive supporter.”

Kelly says she also needs to mention her support professionals.

Her boyfriend Kyle Paddock shares her love of horses and he helps out on his weekends

“Our Farrier Steven Kane does an amazing job with the horses and he knows most of them from the racecourse. Our Vet Dr Ashley Parker is always a comforting phone call away. I am proud to say that we are privileged to enjoy a fantastic sponsorship from Blue Steel Equestrian & Royal Feeds. We are really glad to have them part of our team.” Kelly explains that all of their horses that get rehomed receive individual attention, and the majority get basic schooling

before they move on to their forever homes. “As I said earlier, buyers have to sign a rehoming agreement. We have enjoyed massive support from owners such as Ralphs Racing, Mr Fred Crabbia and Emma Rorke, Mrs Suzette Viljoen, Mrs Lee-Ann & Mr James Drew, Mr Etienne Braun and many others. We really appreciate that the owners trust us with finding their horses good homes. We also have great support from various trainers at Fairview. We really do sincerely appreciate all the support that we get from everyone.” An additional service offered

at De La Ranch is Spelling and Livery to the local trainers. “We also get horses of all disciplines from clients that want to sell – it’s a one stop equine service and we do it all at De La Ranch. So literally no job is too big for us.” Kerry says her motivation is a love of the thoroughbred. “I work with them every day and they give me pleasure. And I want to make sure that they give pleasure to someone else once their racing career is done and dusted. I have about 20 paddocks and I prefer for them to live out , with waterproof blankets.” Since January 2021 De La

Ranch has roughly re homed 220 horses, where we have followed each and everyone of their journeys with their new owners , and, we also do monthly updates with their new owner, to give their previous owner peace of mind where their trusty steeds have been rehomed. Longstanding local trainer Tara Laing is an avid De La Ranch fan. “Kelly is someone that strives to reach her goals. Through hard work, dedication and perseverance — she's an ambitious person that doesn't give up. She pushes forward and is determined to succeed. She’s young, energetic with a bubbly personality and is very much a people person. She and her team do a great job

and render a wonderful support service to horseracing and our beloved horses. East Cape Racing is fortunate to have her doing the job she does so well,” said Tara. If you have horses coming of the racetrack looking for there forever home, horses to be produced, or already produced horses that you want to sell, please give De La Ranch a call on 081 266 6763.

IT REALLY DOES WORK! ‘Tis the season to be giving things away, and it’s not even Christmas yet! We’ve been feeling very generous this past while and have literally been giving prizes away weekly.

my Yoga Teacher Training. This is no joke - It is intensive training, practicing and hard work on the body and the mind. I’m a very fit person, and for the first time in ages last night, I was decidedly buggered.

most common surface issues that CBD is known to help with. And this isjust in our tissue oil. Never mind the body butter, body scrub, personal lubricant and lip balm.

This week is a goodie for us, because we are giving away a Bush Hamper to Francois van Ghent, the winner of the Future Stars competition. Shannon Smith writes that, personally, Bush sits close to her heart.

I’ve stretched and held poses that I didn’t know were possible and I’m literally discovering muscles I never knew existed. I dubbed last night ‘massage night’ with my boyfriend, where we took turns making full use of the massage therapy course I embarked on years ago.

They all could be yours with the Future Stars Competition, and you could get yours with a 10% discount if you purchase on our online shop with the discount code “SPORTINGPOST”.

With Bush being an acronym for ‘Be U, Stay Healthy’, and in a world where holistic health is a pinnacle priority, I don’t go a single day without smothering myself in the Bush Tissue Oil. There is a huge amount - if not, more, pleasure - in hearing feedback on how others love the feeling of it on their skin as well. For the first time in a while, I have been able to be the case study in my own research. In addition to my journey with Dacha, I am currently doing

Honestly - I feel like a different human this morning. The anti-inflammatory and the pain relief that the CBD provides is absolutely incredible. My boyfriend also works pretty hard, so he deserves all the pain relief he can get. It’s satisfying knowing that nature can help us with something that one would usually pop a pill for. It’s beautiful because it gets deep, but it also soothes the surface. Scar tissue, abrasions and skin blemishes are the

You can also get our CBD Infused red and white blends using the same discount code. You can also vote for the upcoming dacha horses and win a 2 pack! We have 3 race days coming up this week – two at Hollywoodbets Greyville, and one at Kenilworth. Get your applications in here. I’ll be in contact with those who go into the draw!

A TOP TRIO! The Sporting Post is proud to partner with BUSH to bring you the cream of this season’s foal crop – our future stars.

select the foal of the month.

Outstanding prizes will be offered every month to readers, who will be asked to

John Kinsley kindly submitted the pic of the beautiful Pomodoro filly out of Cornelia

This week we are privileged to showcase a trio of foals from different farms.

born on 25 October. This is the dam's 11th foal and the seven to have raced to date have won 14 races between them. She was born at Ay-Jay Farm, next to Normandy Stud, in the Robertson district.

Dreamers Stud (f) Moofeed ex Music World – born 8 October

Ay-Jay Farm (f) Pomodoro ex Cornelia – born 25 October

Ina-Marie Burger sent us a pic of a solid Moofeed filly out of the Ideal World mare, Music World. She was born on 8 October at Dreamers Stud in the North-West Province.

Last season’s SA Champion Owner Suzette Viljoen is justifiably proud of her beautiful The United States filly out of Sea Bean, who was born at Evergreen Farm on 14 October. Thanks to you all for the support! • Breeders/owners are invited to email their foal images to editor@sportingpost. co.za and provide the date of birth, sex, breeding and any family or background information.

Evergreen Farm (c) The United States ex Sea Bean – born 14 October

Winterbach Stud (f) Danon Platina ex Polar Jet

FRANCOIS LOVES THE GREY The Sporting Post is proud to partner with BUSH and offer our breeders and our readers the opportunity of enjoying the new generation of future stars. As they were in September, our October class of 2021 was a class bunch of youngsters and the choices from readers was varied. We congratulate the winner of the BUSH WELLNESS HAMPER, Francois van Ghent of Centurion, who

selected the Winterbach Stud-bred daughter of Danon Platina out of Polar Jet. Francois commented: Lot # 1 - I pick this filly because it is a grey, a very beautiful grey where the dam is by Jet Master and the grand dam is by Western Winter - excellent breeding. Well done and many congratulations to Winterbach Stud. Rest assured, my buyers card will be ready and will be waved at the auction when she goes through the ring.

The competition continues for a final month and Breeders are urged to please send us their foal pics to editor@ sportingpost.co.za before 25 November. Please include the date of birth/sex/breeding/any relevant family information.

FUTURE STARS

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY BUSH v

Our first Future Stars winner has been announced!

Is it you? Read about Bush benefits in Dacha Article.

WIN your wellness! Vote for your favourite Future Star & stand a chance to win a Bush Hamper! 71

Design by Winning Media

Darley

Dubawi – a world leader

DUBAWI DOMINATES DEL MAR Darley’s outstanding stallion Dubawi proved the dominant force at this past weekend’s Breeders’ Cup World Championships. The son of Dubai Millennium supplied three winners over the two days, with his son Modern Games scoring a controversial win in Friday’s Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf. Dubawi also produced Juvenile Turf also ran, Dubawi Legend. Another of his sons, Space Blues, landed Saturday’s Gr1 FanDuel Breeders’ Cup Mile presented by Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, and yet another son, Yibir,

captured the G1 Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf on the same day. Dubawi sons Albahr and Master Of The Seas were late scratchings from the Juvenile Turf and Mile respectively. Dubawi has now been responsible for 48 Gr1 winners, with this tally also including another Breeders’ Cup winner in the form of Wuheida (Filly & Mare Turf). Yibir’s triple Gr1 winning own sister, Wild Illusion, ran second to Sistercharlie in the 2018 Gr1 Maker’s Mark Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf.

The triple Gr1 winner has enjoyed another stellar year with his near 40 black type winners headed by the aforementioned Breeders’ Cup winners, as well as Gr1 Summer Stakes hero, Albahr, Gr1 Dubai Turf winner, Lord North, and Gr1 Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes winner, Creative Force. Dubawi also made headlines as a broodmare sire in 2021, with his Gr3 Prix De La Grotte winning daughter, Anna, responsible for this year’s Gr1 Cazoo Derby/G1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes victor, Adayar (Frankel).

The increasingly influential Dubawi also scored as a sire of sires this year, through the likes of Night Of Thunder, Zarak, and New Bay. Night Of Thunder, one of two sons of Dubawi to have captured the 2000 Guineas, came up with a pair of Gr1 winners in 2021, with his son, Kukeracha, capturing the Gr1 Moet & Chandon Queensland Derby and his daughter, Thundering Nights, winning the Gr1 Alwasmiyah Pretty Polly Stakes back in June. The blue-blooded Zarak made a cracking start to his stud career, with Dubawi and Zarkava’s Gr1 winning son’s first two-year-olds including Gr3 winner, Lizaid, and the Gr1 placed pair of Purplepay and Times Square, while

Dubawi’s French classic winning son, New Bay, is the sire of, among others, the 2021 Gr1 Kingdom Of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes winner, Saffron Beach, and promising two-year-old, Bayside Boy.

anywhere in the world, following the passing this year of Galileo, Dubawi has already enjoyed success in South Africa through his G1 winning offspring, Happy Archer and Willow Magic.

Dubawi’s remarkably durable son Benbatl, who won ten group/graded races, will make a bid to further his sire’s growing legacy having recently been retired to stud in Japan.

And he looks poised for more success in this country in the coming seasons, through the likes of Willow Magic, whose daughter, Magical Flight, ran second to champion War Of Athena on Saturday, and Erupt. The latter, winner of both the Gr1 Grand Prix de Paris and Gr1 Canadian International, will be represented by his first runners this season.

Dubawi’s classic winning son, Makfi, is the sire of dual Gr1 winner, Make Believe, whose son, Mishriff, captured all of the Saudi Cup, Gr1 Dubai Sheema Classic and Gr1 Juddmonte International in 2021. Arguably the best stallion currently active at stud

Godolphin

Space Blues claims a third Gr1 victory on his final racecourse appearance

APPLEBY’S DEL MAR DELIGHT! Charlie Appleby, Godolphin’s leading trainer has enjoyed a remarkable season in Europe including winning the Derby, King George and St Leger in the UK; the Irish Derby and multiple Gr1 successes in France and Germany.

withdrawn by the starter for rearing in the stalls. Moments later however, Modern Games was re-loaded and stunned the crowd with a facile two length success. It was a race in which he was scratched, unscratched, and then ran for purse money only.

Last weekend he raided America with six runners, two of which were late scratchings, but he was victorious with three Gr1 victories.

"The starter and assistant starter took protective steps by leading the horse out of the front of the gate," the Del Mar race course statement added. "The horse did not break through the gate on its own, as was originally thought.”

Friday (Rising Stars Day), concluded with controversy in the Gr1 Juvenile Turf as both the Godolphin runners Modern Games (Buick) and Albahr (Dettori) were

The very good Dubawi horse Space Blues enjoyed a fairy-tale conclusion to his career with a third Gr1 triumph in 75

the Breeders’ Cup Mile. The Charlie Appleby-trained five-year-old backed up his Gr1 Prix de la Foret success over 7 furlongs on heavy ground at Longchamp with a comfortable win over a mile on quick ground at Del Mar. He beat Smooth Like Strait with Ivar back in third. However, there was more stalls drama prior to the Gr1 Mile for owners Godolphin and Appleby, whose other runner Master Of The Seas was scratched after rearing up in the gates under James Doyle. Appleby said: “There’s been a couple of interesting races

for us to watch in the last 24 hours! William gave Space Blues a fantastic ride and I’m over the moon to see him go out on a high. He’s not the best on the turns, but I knew he was going to fly home once straightened up.” Buick said: “Space Blues is one of my favourites, so I wanted to do him justice on his last start. He's a great little horse and probably not quite got the recognition he really deserves. Hopefully he goes on to become a great stallion.” Space Blues bowed out with a record of 11 wins, three seconds and a third from 19 starts, earning just short of £2 million in prize-money. Charlie Appleby took his sensational Breeders' Cup

record to six winners from just 11 runners when Yibir motored home to deny the Ballydoyle trained Broome in a thrilling climax to the Gr1 Breeders Turf over 2400m. William Buick's mount raced very keenly early on but finished in devastating fashion from an unpromising position to win going away. Yibir and Broome led home a British and Irish 1-2-3-4, with Teona and Japan filling the other places. “I can’t believe what Yibir did today. He was pulling my arms out for the first half of the race and I thought we were in trouble. He was amazing and picked up really well. To have three winners on this world stage is fantastic and it’s been a great weekend for team Godolphin.”

After Yibir’s victory Charlie Appleby reflected: "There’s been a lot of emotions. Yesterday we had two potentially scratched and one got reinstated back into the race. I felt sorry for the crowd, their winning tickets didn’t come off with Modern Games, but that’s not the horse’s fault. It was great to see him win the way he did. "Then today, standing there again before the Mile, to see what was potentially unfolding in front of us, it took a bit of stepping back and having to take a breath again. I just knew the right horse was left in the gate in Space Blues. He was always going to be the main player. Yibir in the last was the icing on the cake. It's been great."

Godolphin

76 Yibir flashes home to get up in the final strides of the Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Turf

80 The now 5yo Katak in his Cape racing days

Chase Liebenberg

KATAK GOES FOR GOLD 81

Cape Winter Series star Katak looks likely to start in Sunday’s SG$1 million Gr1 Singapore Gold Cup to be run over 2000m at Kranji.

his horses on the week of a big race, but the long interval since his last-start win in the Gr1 Queen Elizabeth II Cup win on October 16 called for it.

The son of Potala Palace left his land of birth undefeated but has not shown that level of brilliance yet in Singapore. He improved last time to run a good second and after a superb trial last Tuesday, looks fit and ready to show his class.

“I always wanted to trial him today. Four weeks in between races can be tricky,” said Gray.

“Trainer Ricardo Le Grange’s horse is a big improver. He showed it at his second place to Hard Too Think in the QEII Cup,” said Kiwi trainer Stephen Gray after his charge Hard Too Think ran his barrier trial on Tuesday.

Ridden by former Katak jockey Marc Lerner in the barrier trial, Hard Too Think settled at the rear, giving the early pacesetters a big start throughout, ambling along into fourth place, totally untested.

The Kiwi does not usually trial

“He had a quiet week after the QEII Cup. He had one gallop last Tuesday and this trial today with the blinkers on will bring him on nicely.”

“It was more like a 500m gallop and I told Marc to keep riding

him past the line. Effectively, he ran 1200m to 1400m,” said Gray. “He’s an interesting horse. He shows no energy around the stables, he’s very relaxed. “It’s not 2200m like in the old days. He will stay 2000m, a good miler can win the Gold Cup if he is fit.” The All Too Hard five-year-old was always Gray’s Singapore Gold Cup horse, but on the way there, has picked up two other marquee race wins for good measure - the Singapore Derby and Queen Elizabeth II Cup, both run over 1800m. Visit www.sportingpost.co.za for all the big race updates later in the week

HKJC

QE11 Cup winner Loves Only You – Hong Kong Cup entry

A MONTH TO GO The 2021 LONGINES Hong Kong International Races has attracted a galaxy of global and local stars with 135 world-class horses included in a glittering entry, with 57 individual Group 1 winners from nine countries or regions eyeing the lucrative four-race showcase on 12 December.

Now worth a mammoth HK$100 million, the four Gr1’s on offer are the HK$30 million Gr1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m), HK$26 million Gr1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile (1600m), HK$24 million Gr1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m) and HK$20 million Gr1 LONGINES Hong Kong Vase (2400m). We look this week at the entries for the LONGINES

Hong Kong Cup. Loves Only You and Vincent Ho charged to a brilliant win in the Gr1 FWD QEII Cup on FWD Champions Day and Yoshito Yahagi is after more success at Sha Tin with his two-time Gr1-winnning mare. Her name sits alongside that of seven from trainer Aidan O’Brien, who has Bolshoi Ballet, Japan, Love, Broome,

Snowfall, La Joconde and Santiago all entered. Joining Loves Only You from Japan could be Lei Papale, who was undefeated across her first six starts which included a tough Gr1 Osaka Hai (2000m) success before her third-placed effort to Chrono Genesis in the Gr1 Takarazuka Kinen (2200m) as could Gibeon, Persian Knight and Cafe Pharoah. Gran Alegria holds an option for the 10-furlong test, as do World Premiere, Glory Vase and Curren Bouquetd’or. While also from Ireland is Tarnawa, H H Aga Khan IV’s top-class mare holds an entry for both the Cup and the Vase. She’s a three-time Gr1 winner who finished a

close-up second in this year’s G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (2400m). France is no stranger to success in the Cup with three wins in the 10-furlong showdown thanks to Jim And Tonic (1999), Pride (2006) and Vision d’Etat (2009). This year, their assault could be spearheaded by Sealiway, winner of the British Champion Stakes earlier this month. Trainer Chris Waller has a host entries across the board with two for the Cup, headlined by Verry Elleegant, his prolific Gr1 winner and last year’s champion of the Gr1 Caulfield Cup (2400m). She was crowned Australia’s Racehorse of the Year (2020/21) and could bolster her resume, while Waller’s other

mare Hungry Heart is entered. The home team’s defence features Furore, the 2019 BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) hero, Glorious Dragon and Southern Legend, while Panfield, winner of the Gr1 Standard Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) in May, holds an option for both the Cup and the Vase. Channel Cat - who races in the iconic Calumet Farm silks - is entered for American handler Jack Sisterson. The six-year-old claimed the Gr1 Man o’ War Stakes (2200m) at Belmont Park in May, this year.

EUROPE’S P R E M I E R BREEDING STOCK SALE v

featuring major consignments from

Godolphin, Juddmonte Farms and Shadwell Estates

TAT T E R SA L L S DEC E M BE R SA L E 2021 YEARLINGS: November 22nd FOALS: November 24th-27th BROODMARES, FILLIES IN TRAINING, etc: November 29th-December 2nd

Jeremy Nelson T: +2783 2617953 jeremy.nelson@tattersalls.com www.tattersalls.com 86

Tattersalls

The breeding right to Time Test, leading European first crop sire by black type winners, sold for 100,000 guineas

PLENTY OF DEMAND ONLINE The latest sale to be held on the Tattersalls Online platform saw strong demand for breeding rights to two of Britain’s most exciting young sires. Blandford Bloodstock’s Tom Goff emerged as the successful purchaser for both lots, striking at 100,000 guineas for the breeding right to TIME TEST and at 75,000

guineas on behalf of Wardley Bloodstock to secure the breeding right to ARDAD. A dual Gr2 winner and multiple Gr1 in a race career that spanned four seasons, TIME TEST has enjoyed a remarkable strike rate of black type performers from his first crop with five of his eleven winners earning black type to date. The son of DUBAWI is

currently the leading European first crop sire by black type winners and Goff secured the breeding right to the exciting young stallion with a bid of 100,000 guineas. TIME TEST covered his largest book to date at the National Stud in 2021 and is already the sire of the Group 3 winners ROCCHIGIANI and ROMANTIC TIME, Listed

winners TARDIS and THE KING’S HORSES, and the Group 1 placed SUNSET SHIRAZ. A bid of 75,000 guineas secured the breeding right to Group 1 producing sire Ardad A winner of the Gr2 Flying Childers and Listed Windsor Castle Stakes himself as a two-year-old, ARDAD’s first crop has been led by Gr1 Middle Park and Gr1 Prix Morny winner PERFECT

POWER but also high class performers such as the Group 3 Sirenia Stakes winner EVE LODGE and the Gr2 Coventry Stakes placed VINTAGE CLARETS. The son of KODIAC stands at Overbury Stud where he covered in excess of 150 mares this season. The next sale to be held on the Tattersalls Online platform will be a select sale of Point to Pointers and NH Horses in Training to take place on

Thursday, 16th December. Select entries will be accepted for the sale from Point to Points at Borris House, Boulta and Corbagh House in Ireland and UK Point to Point meetings held on the weekend of the 11th 12th December.

Gavin Howes gets Young England up to beat Jungle Warrior(Jeff Lloyd)

FOREVER YOUNG For the first time in years there was no challenge from either Natal or the Transvaal in the 1988 Richelieu Guineas. None of the locals measured up to Terrance Millard’s Royal Chalice or Peter Kannemeyer’s Priceless Asset. Royal Chalice had beaten Priceless Asset in the Summerveld Stakes during the Natal winter season, but Priceless Asset had won his five subsequent races, including the SA Invitation Stakes and the Basil Starke Stakes. Meanwhile, Royal Chalice had raced only three times, but against much stronger opposition.

He had failed by a short head to catch the brilliant Wexford Boy, subsequent winner of the Cape Flying Championship, he had trounced Young England in the Computaform Stakes, and then he had finished a creditable second to runaway Met winner Mark Anthony in the Queen’s Plate. Everything looked set for a gigantic struggle between the two colts and the bookmakers priced up the Guineas as if it were a match, offering 10/1 upwards about the other 14 runners. And the day belonged to Peter Kannemeyer who won it with the least fancied of his 90

three runners, 20/1 Young England. Peekay also filled third and fourth places with Coolstar and Priceless Asset, his patrons thus scooping R237 000 of the prize money – something for the record books. Young England’s win realized a long cherished dream for his owner, Johannesburg-based Mr Gerald Rosenberg, who had been a loyal supporter of Cape racing for many years, as was his father before him.

- Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden

n Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies -

Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies

Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golden Oldies - Golde

results up to: 2021-11-09

TRAINERS Name Mr P A Peter Mr S J Snaith Mr M F de Kock Mr G D Smith Mr A C Greeﬀ

Runs

Wins Win%

277 389 119 327 261

51 59 33 39 37

18.4 15.2 27.7 11.9 14.2

2nd

3rd

44 48 23 37 27

35 58 10 31 34

2nd

3rd

78 51 56 43 24

66 49 45 41 21

Other Places Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

46.9 46.0 44.5 40.1 39.5

2,813,000 2,674,025 1,860,250 1,612,500 1,512,500

4,299,125 4,040,875 2,462,750 2,457,000 2,201,438

Other Places Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

4,921,313 3,180,325 2,919,313 2,516,550 1,928,813

7,073,063 4,755,063 4,619,663 3,588,025 2,793,750

51 73 20 63 42

130 179 53 131 103

JOCKEYS Name Mr W B Kennedy Mr S Khumalo Mr M A Yeni Mr R D Fourie Mr L Hewitson

Rides Wins Win% 527 380 441 272 174

95 66 58 56 39

18.0 17.4 13.2 20.6 22.4

98 77 88 50 27

242 177 189 134 72

45.9 46.6 42.9 49.3 41.4

BREEDERS B.T. B.T. Total Runrs Runs AEPR Wnrs Wins Winrs/ Places Winrs Wins Stakes (R) Rnrs %

Name

Wilgerbosdri� & Mauritzfontein Klawervlei Stud Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert) Maine Chance Farms (Pty) Ltd Summerhill Stud (Pty) Ltd

201 255

494 623

29,783 18,981

64 56

81 64

31.8 216 22.0 241

6 2

5,986,288 4,840,100

109 99 106

265 246 288

26,663 25,214 22,722

31 29 23

43 36 27

28.4 111 29.3 110 21.7 103

3 0 1

2,906,250 2,496,200 2,408,563

B.T. Wins

Total Stakes (R)

3 3 1 1 2

3,336,538 3,158,088 3,078,263 2,698,388 2,606,838

SIRES Name

Runrs Runs AEPR

Vercingetorix * Silvano (GER) Master Of My Fate What A Winter Flower Alley (USA)

110 121 124 123 85

248 277 332 295 203

30,332 26,100 24,825 21,938 30,669

B.T. Wnrs Wins Winrs/ Places Winrs Rnrs % 36 38 32 33 30

46 43 38 38 39

32.7 31.4 25.8 26.8 35.3

109 120 164 116 76

See all the detailed standings - Click here 91

3 3 1 1 2

FIFA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS

GLOBETROTTING FOR GOALS! 92

Phew! It’s an international break. For some amongst us, it is breaking the momentum, for others, delaying the inevitable and for everyone left over… it’s a chance to take a deep breath and go to work on Monday in peace. Ryan Liberty has selected a couple of international matches for your perusal, so get involved and let’s make some money. Friday 12 November 13/1 Moldova | Draw 44/10 | Scotland 1/5 (19h00) Scotland have been in sublime form recently; their youthful squad are underpinned by a commitment to electric transitions with an appetite to score. Moldova last kept a clean sheet while they were still known as the Ottoman Empire so I’m not sure they are looking forward to this one. 1/5 is a little short, I think Scotland and over 2.5 at 8/10 is the way to play this one. 6/10 Italy | 49/20 | Switzerland 42/10 (21h45) The real European champions have become increasingly inconsistent, but I’m not sure it will last too long. Roberto Mancini will

want to ensure his team begin to find their groove again and ensure they start to build-up positively to next year. Switzerland will provide a stern test for the Italians, but I think their approach of inviting teams to come onto them will put them under too much pressure. 6/10 is a justified price in my mind – but it’s also one we need to take full advantage of. Get on the home win.

must include this leg in every multiple. France have been lethal in front of goal, scoring two or more goals in each of their last three. Kazakhstan, on the other hand, haven’t experienced the soft touch of a clean sheet since October 2020. There will be goals! 1/25 Belgium | 12/1 | Estonia 38/1 (21h45)

1/8 England | 58/10 | Albania 19/1 (21h45)

Belgium have struggled against the so-called bigger nations…but that I wouldn’t suggest mustering up hasn’t stopped them putting too much confidence on England away everyone else. This is another mismatch, but I’d playing in England. The Three argue it has the potential to Lions haven’t had the best year make us some money. playing in front of their gentlemen-like fans…but especially not Belgium start games on the when playing teams who aren’t afraid of having a go themselves. front foot and invest a lot of energy to keep their foot Hungary showed little regard for on the throat of the game. with that being said, I’d be the stature of the occasion and more than happy investing earned a draw against a a few pieces on Belgium toothless English side, and I to win the first 10 minutes think Albania could find similar success. 2/1 about both teams of the game – you can get around 51/20! Certainly not to score is simply a gift. for the multiples, but a sort of bumper to tickle the coffers. Saturday 13 November 1/25 France | 10/1 | Kazakhstan 1/5 Wales | 44/10 | Belarus 12/1 (21h45) 46/1 (21h45) This is a bit of a non-entity – I know! However, France to win by 3 or more goals is at a ridiculous 6/10. The only reason I’ve added this game to my preview is because you simply

Gareth Bale recently lamented the mercurial nature of sport after receiving praise from Real Madrid…now whilst I can’t deny his sentiments, there is nothing fickle about suggesting Belarus have

neither the quality or depth to trouble Wales in any shape or form.

Sunday 14 November

However, Wales are their own worst enemies. The last time these two met the Welsh came away 3-2 winners, which could raise questions about the 12/1 prices about the away win.

This should be a thrilling game of football. Both two sides have had a positive run on the international stage, and neither will think they can lose. In Croatia you have a national side steeped in history, lined with expectation and all whilst enjoying the creative freedom often associated with successful teams.

I can’t justify why Both teams to score isn’t a good bet, in fact given their last meeting I think it might be a set bet! 15/10 is available and unless I’m missing something – Get in! 9/1 Montenegro | 38/10 | Netherlands 2/7 (21h45) The Netherlands will know a win here will likely seal their place to Qatar next year. Ahead of their games against Montenegro and Norway, Oranje are at the summit of their group and look to be in a comfortable position. Montenegro have been somewhat impressive in my opinion. Yes, they have been put away by teams we expect to do just that, but they have salvaged points against the likes of Turkey and Latvia. I don’t think they will contain this Netherlands side though but going for a winner is unnecessary. Over 2.5 goals is available at 15/20.

Croatia vs Russia (16h00)

Russia on the other hand are a newer entrant onto the competitive stage and are slowly but surely demanding the respect of their opposition. They are unbeaten in their last five and will come into this game with enough confidence to ask questions. It could go either way, but I think it’ll play out to a draw and see both sides cancel each other out. Back the draw. Portugal vs Serbia (21h45) The creativity and attacking threat of Portugal will test itself against a defensive system which will take no prisoners. Serbia have now completely adopted the robust and physical approach on defence – now while that may, admittedly, be a generalization – it has paid dividends. Portugal are still a side littered with attacking quality and I

think that will earn them a result here. For betting purposes though, I think it prudent to favour under 2.5 goals in the game. Spain vs Sweden (21h45) It’s a brilliant game to close off the weekend, one which will see Spain seek revenge when they welcome Sweden to their shores. The last time these two met, Sweden ran out 2-1 winners – which was quite a shock to many. I’m not convinced by Sweden away from home and so I’m inclined to suggest getting behind Spain…I know they lost last time out to Sweden, but I think the Spanish are clinical and good enough to right those wrongs here. Back the home side aggressively.