SP Sprint – Wednesday 09 April 2025

NATIONAL NOBILITY

Candiese Lenferna caught veteran trainer Dean Kannemeyer, Form Bloodstock’s Jehan Malherbe and Mathew de Kock in deep reflection as they viewed the National Yearling Sale offering on Monday at the TBA Sales Complex at Gosforth Park. Day 1 (lots 1-200) of the sale begins tomorrow at 10h00. Day 2 (lots 201-346) is on Friday, with the same start time.

A NATIONAL SHOWCASE

11

American-Breds Trump Them

Grey flies late for a massive win

15

Florent Who?

Meet the World Cup winning jockey

26

SA Star Returns To States

No joy on Saturday, but Isi will be back

52

National Yearling Sale – The Day Dawns

The big sale starts on Thursday

211

On the cover

Frankie Dettori celebrates an eighth Godolphin Mile success on Saturday with a joyous flying dismount from gun-totape winner, Raging Torrent. Chase Liebenberg was the Sporting Post photographer at Meydan. Read more on page 06.

Hennenman Remembered

SA racing’s worst tragedy

Issue: 14/2025

THERE’S NO TRUMPING FRANKIE!

A delighted Frankie Dettori shows his joy after a cracking ride on Raging Torrent for his personal eighth Godolphin Mile success | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Whatever may have been going on out of the saddle of late, Frankie Dettori is still a good jockey. A darned good one.

The man who recently filed for bankruptcy having been unable to reach agreement with HM Revenue and Customs over a long-running tax dispute, showed he is still the man of the Magnificent Seven and countless other huge triumphs with a perfect ride back at a meeting where he has won four World Cups.

The Racing Post reports that he judged the Godolphin Mile from the front in expert fashion on American Grade 1 -winner Raging Torrent and his all-the-way success clearly meant

plenty as the trademark flying dismount was followed by a double fist pump.

“I came for this and I’m delighted,” he said. “He’s a horse that’s sensible, he runs a little bit behind the bridle and so I knew he’d relax on and off.

“If the others pressure him they’re playing Russian roulette, nobody’s going to jeopardise their horse to try to take me on. He’s such a beautiful horse. It’s a plan well executed from the beginning to the end. He’s a relentless

galloper, as long as I got my fractions right I knew I’d get to the end.”

Raging Torrent provided trainer Doug O’Neill a second consecutive running of the Godolphin Mile and third overall, turning away the pacepressing Mufasa with less than 400 metres to travel before easily holding off France’s King Gold and Kazu Petrin for Japan. It was Frankie Dettori 24th winner at the Dubai World Cup meeting, double the number of any of his peers.

Dettori, reflecting on his Dubai record, said: “Eight Godolphin Miles, that’s a hell of a record. I think it’s fair to say I grew up here. It’s great

satisfaction coming back and winning - and hopefully I can win the World Cup again.”

Dettori later came agonisingly close to capping a memorable night in the Dubai World Cup. He looked for all the world like he was going to win the feature prize on the Doug O’Neilltrained Mixto, but the pair were denied in the final yards by the Brad Cox-trained outsider Hit Show, in a one-two for the US.

Dettori had swept into the lead on Mixto in the home straight, but the five-year-old started to tread water in the last furlong and he was caught in the final yards by Hit Show and his rider Florent Geroux.

Raging Torrent and Frankie Dettori make it look oh so easy | Chase Liebenberg

DOMINATES IN DUBAI AMERICAN HIT SHOW

Wathnan Racing’s Hit Show foiled Forever Young’s attempt at completing the valuable Saudi Cup/Dubai World Cup double, weaving his way through the Meydan straight to run down his fellow Americanbred and outsider Mixto in the US$12 million feature on Saturday.

Forever Young, who never appeared entirely comfortable in transit, did his best work late, but it was only good enough to touch Walk of Stars out of third.

Florent Geroux, who rode Gun Runner to a runner-up effort behind the other-worldly

performance turned in by Arrogate here eight years ago was content to settle Hit Show behind mid-division, as the rail-drawn Walk of Stars set the pace from Mixto – ridden by four-time World Cup winner Frankie Dettori –through the opening exchanges.

Third or fourth-last down the back, Hit Show was full of run on the turn, but was quietly ridden and still had a good 10 lengths to find, as Walk of Stars and Mixto continued to mix it up on top. Geroux gave Hit Show his cue with about 500 meters left, decisively taking a split between Katonah and a weakening Imperial

Hit Show (Florent Geroux ) runs down the contenders to claim World Cup glory | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Emperor in upper stretch. Steered to the inside of Wilson Tesoro inside the final furlong, he took aim on the joint leaders and raced over the top of them to cause a boilover.

Forever Young travelled with none of the fluidity he did when scoring in Riyadh 42 days ago but showed his battling qualities late on to earn the third spot.

With the victory, Hit Show earns an allexpenses-paid trip to the Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar on November 1. And trainer Brad Cox indicated that all roads would lead to the American showpiece for his five-year-old.

Geroux said: “Only at the 100m did I think I could win! When I passed a lot of horses.

Forever Young was my target and he was not travelling at all. I tried to find another horse to follow, from there my horse was game. For some reason, he just runs for me all the time, he is amazing.

“I’ll be honest with you, I was running for a place and he gave me more. I can’t quite believe it. I’ll take it though! Gun Runner (second to Arrogate in 2017) was such a great horse and he couldn’t do it, it was a very tough beat, but Hit Show has done it.”

Cox said: “I still can’t quite believe it, it’s unbelievable. I would have loved to be there but just with so much going on with these three-year-olds and trying to get to the (Kentucky) Derby, I couldn’t make it. However, he was in good hands with the people I sent over with him. It’s a great accomplishment and we have a great team that allows us to spread ourselves out and travel when the opportunities are there.

“He ran a great race in California, and it set him up well. The mile and a quarter is his trip, he ran well in the Kentucky Derby and out to a mile and a half in the Belmont, but he hasn’t got out in trip properly until his last two starts. We always knew that ground was his thing, the further the better. He’s a classy horse, he’s shipped all over and now he’s a Dubai World Cup winner.”

Mixto (2nd), jockey Frankie Dettori said: “There’s good prize money for second! He ran superb. He was a genuine outsider. I knew he was underrated because he’s a good old warrior who loves the distance and he loves an outside post. I had the perfect trip. I couldn’t complain. It’s just a shame he got beaten on the line.”

Trainer Doug O’Neill said: “I thought Mixto ran the lights out and Frankie is just a legend for so many reasons. He had him in a great spot without having to use much of him. I thought he had enough in the end, but he got outrun late. He ran super. I’m very proud of everybody.”

Forever Young (3rd), jockey Ryusei Sakai said: “We had to win this race and I am disappointed. He ran a great race in Sudi and I expected him to win if he ran his race but it was a tough race as he was the horse to beat. It was tough and we did our best. He wasn’t traveling at all. It wasn’t an easy race and hard to keep winning.”

Trainer Yoshito Yahagi said: “We were the away team and Forever Young got worked up because of it. That’s no excuse though.”

Walk Of Stars (4th), jockey Mickael Barzalona said: “He ran very well but I would have preferred to have been able to control the race for longer. I got pressure from my outside earlier than I wanted but that’s racing.”

Trainer Bhupat Seemar said: “Walk Of Stars ran a super race. Maybe if he didn’t go to Saudi Arabia, he could have finished better. We saw that all the horses that participated at the Saudi Cup were beaten today. So, it is not easy to do both races. He just got tired in the end.”

The winning connections lead in a triumphant Hit Show and Florent Geroux | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

WHAT A RIDE,

BUT FLORENT WHO…?

A stunned Florent Geroux returns on the longshot Hit Show

Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Little known to SA racing fans, but a clearly inordinately patient man in life and in the saddle, 38 year old French-born jockey Florent Geroux produced a Striker Strydom style ride to raise his international profile in the 123,50 seconds that it took the American-bred grey Hit Show to win the $12 million Dubai World Cup, and cap an extraordinary card of racing at Meydan on Saturday.

Eight years after finishing second on Gun Runner in 2017, Florent Geroux finally bagged his Dubai World Cup trophy – despite dropping his crop 100m out on the 66-1 shot and having to get to an uber determined Frankie Dettori on Mixto!

But this time, there was no Arrogate to deny Geroux.

In a thrilling finish to Saturday night’s showpiece, his mount, a five-year-old son of Argentinian stallion Candy Ride, surged past a tiring Forever Young to pen a new script of his own.

Geroux said: “Only at the 100m did I think I could win! When I passed a lot of horse, Forever Young was my target and he was not travelling at all. I tried to find another horse to follow, from there my horse was game. For some reason, he just runs for me all the time - he is amazing. I’ll be honest with you, I was running for a place and he gave me more. I can’t quite believe it. I’ll take it though! Gun

Runner was such a great horse and he couldn’t do it, it was a very tough beat, but Hit Show has done it.”

And what a race it was! Wathnan Racing’s Hit Show weaved his way through the traffic to run down fellow American-bred outsider Mixto. The top-class Forever Young, who never appeared entirely comfortable in transit, did his best work late, but it was only good enough to edge Walk of Stars out of third.

Florent Geroux has ridden over 1700 winners, including the 2017 Breeders’ Cup Classic on Gun Runner, two Breeders’ Cup Distaff wins with Monomoy Girl, and the 2021 Kentucky Derby on upgraded winner,Mandaloun.

Geroux was born in 1986 in Argentan, France.

The son of Dominique Geroux, a jockey turned trainer, at age 13 he was accepted into the French riding academy.

He later started riding in France and became a leading apprentice. He booted home his first

winner on 6 May 2004 at Longchamp, on a horse called Chopyluz.

Geroux travelled to the United States for the first time in early 2007, working with trainer Patrick Biancone for a few months, before returning briefly to France.

In the fall of 2007, he returned to the United States with the intention of joining the Kentucky racing circuit. On the opening day at Keeneland, he suffered a serious fall, suffering a broken wrist and two fractured vertebrae.

He recuperated in France for several months then returned to the States with Chicago as his home base.

He enjoyed some success over the next years, with a career best year in 2016, banking earnings of $17,690,013 and 217 wins, including two Gr1 successes on I’m a Chatterbox.

Geroux picked up the mount on Gun Runner at the start of the year and rode him to a win in the Louisiana Derby and a third-place finish in the

Delight is etched on the Frenchman’s face! | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Kentucky Derby. After the pair finished second in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile, they capped the year with a win in the Clark Handicap.

Another highlight was winning four graded races on Arlington Million Day: the Beverly D, Secretariat, American St. Leger and Pucker Up. The Dad of two became a U.S. citizen in 2018. In 2017, Geroux was ranked in the top ten of North American jockeys. With Gun Runner, he won the Breeders’ Cup Classic and four other stakes races, including the well publicized second-place finish in the Dubai World Cup.

“You ride a thousand horses a year, and this one, there’s just something special,” said Geroux of his connection in Gun Runner. “I’m not a true believer in that, but I do believe now.”

A lovely tale of patience!

With the victory on Saturday, Hit Show earned an all-expenses-paid trip to the Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar on 1 November, along with Danon Decile, Soul Rush and Dark Saffron.

Winning trainer Brad Cox, who watched the race on television, indicated that all roads would lead to the American showpiece for his five-year-old, who was bred by Gary & Mary West Stables.

Cox said: “I still can’t quite believe it, it’s unbelievable. I would have loved to be there but just with so much going on with these three-year-olds and trying to get to the (Kentucky) Derby, I couldn’t make it. However, he was in good hands with the people I sent over with him. It’s a great accomplishment.”

Riding Master Position

A vacancy has arisen at the South African Jockey Academy, Cape Town branch. The Academy is seeking to appoint a Riding Master who will be responsible for fostering the development of young elite sportsmen and women.

The successful candidate will work within a team environment under the guidance of the National Riding Master and must understand the high demands of training young apprentice jockeys to become elite professionals. Applicants should have a strong sporting background and an ability to work effectively with adolescents.

Requirements:

• A solid understanding of the Thoroughbred Racing Industry.

• A Training and Assessing qualification is preferred. If not held, the candidate will be required to obtain this qualification.

• Strong ability to mentor adolescents through a demanding apprenticeship.

• Ability to work effectively within a team environment.

• High levels of integrity.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and public relations capabilities.

• Computer literacy and technological aptitude.

• Self-motivated, eager to learn, and driven to impart skills and knowledge in a training and learning environment.

• Willingness to live on the property and fulfill housemaster duties during the week and on weekends.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the holistic development of apprentice jockeys, guiding them to become qualified professional jockeys.

• Develop a tailored progression path for each apprentice.

• Conduct regular assessments of apprentices to monitor and guide their development.

• Take apprentices to track work daily and accompany them to race meetings.

• Handle necessary administrative tasks.

• Be an integral part of the Multidisciplinary Team.

Package: To be negotiated.

To apply, please send a brief CV (max 2 pages) along with a one-page motivation letter to headmaster@theacademy.co.za. The closing date for applications is Tuesday, 29th April 2025 at 4:00 pm. The Academy reserves the right not to make an appointment. Submission of an application does not automatically entitle the applicant to an interview.

SEEING IS BELIEVING BRITISH MARE CRACKS MAIDEN GR1

The 2025 Dubai World Cup day dream failed to materialize for the Hollywood Racing team and SA racing fans as former SA champion Isivunguvungu never sparked in the Gr1 Al Quoz Sprint at Meydan on Saturday.

“Things never mapped out for him in the race. He was overracing and got stuck behind when it was time to go,” a disappointed Anthony Delpech told the Sporting Post.

Jockey Christophe Soumillon said: “I was in a good position, but he didn’t quicken.”

But it was British-trained mare Believing who

arrived in the nick of time to claim the first Group 1 victory of her career in a blistering Al Quoz Sprint Sponsored By Azizi Developments.

During her career with George Boughey in Newmarket, the daughter of Mehmas has tested the patience of her team but has amassed an impressive collection of results including placed efforts at the highest level on

Believing (William Buick, purple cap) claims the first Gr1 victory of her career | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

all her three most recent starts in the Nunthorpe Stakes at York, the Flying Five at the Curragh and on her most recent appearance in the Prix de l’Abbaye.

In December, she was bought for just over $4million at Tattersalls and is now owned by a partnership of Coolmore and Resolute Racing.

For much of this event, it looked as if a smaller share of the prize-money might be the best she would manage again.

Japanese challenger Win Carnelian was dictating the pace under Kosei Miura and was in total control with 400m remaining, although Believing and fellow British challenger Regional were just starting to emerge as the only dangers.

William Buick, a master at Meydan with nine Dubai World Cup night wins in the bag already including with the mighty Blue Point in this race back in 2019, was starting to get Believing rolling and she poked her head up the inside in the final few strides to strike by 0.68 lengths and in a sharp time of 1:07.77.

Win Carnelian hung on bravely for second, just ahead of Regional with the trio well clear of the remainder.

“George was really bullish about her before the race, her prep has been faultless,” said Buick. “This is a lucky spare ride for me. Ryan Moore was meant to ride her, obviously he was in Australia this morning, I stepped in”

William Buick and Believing return after a big win | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

“The filly was very tough. She really deserved to to get that Group 1. She showed there what she’s all about, she really knuckled down. Fair play to George in his team for having her in tiptop shape for tonight.”

Believing was withdrawn before the start of the Breeders’ Cup Sprint last November after giving trouble in the gate.

With Boughey and his partner at home awaiting the birth of their first child, assistant trainer Henry Morshead was on duty and said: “Her preparation into this has been very strong and her gate-work has been good all winter, which was a concern coming from Del Mar last time.

“But God she’s tough, she really sticks her head down, she’s a real testament to the hard work everyone puts in at home.”

Morshead added: “It’s hugely special and Coolmore are unbelievably straightforward to deal with. We’re hugely honoured to have her in the yard this year as a five-year-old.”

US HOME BASE MOTION TO RETURN ISI TO

South African Dubai World Cup day flagbearer Isivunguvungu, who contested the Gr1 Al Quoz Sprint on Saturday, will return to his US home base on Wednesday, down but definitely not out, and will be programmed to contest races during the summer.

That was the word to the Sporting Post from veteran trainer Graham Motion early on Sunday morning, after Hollywood Racing’s son of What A Winter had emptied the manger and thankfully appeared to be none the worse for the experience.

The now 6yo Isivunguvungu had never finished double digit lengths back in any of his previous 18 starts, a number of which were at Grade 1 level.

Christophe Soumillon and Isivunguvungu had no luck at Meydan | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

On Saturday the dual SA Gr1 winner started at 16-1 and was beaten 11,50 lengths behind the British mare, Believing.

“He was quite sharp on the day and perhaps in hindsight it might have proven a better option that we should have let him go on. He didn’t seem to appreciate being taken back. He had to check a little bit and emptied out after that. He will be very competitive back home,” added trainer Graham Motion.

Ten times Champion jockey of France, Christophe Soumillon was in the irons on Saturday and had ridden Isivunguvungu twice before in SA.

At both those starts (a second and Gr1 third) over 1000m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, the son of What A Winter had been covered up until late, and then produced into the final 200m. It seems that was the intended strategy on Saturday.

Trainer Graham Motion – taking the champion back to the USA | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Soumillon said: “I was in a good position, but he didn’t quicken.”

A number of big names ran below best on the day. Breeders’ Cup Sprint winner and reigning sprint champion Straight No Chaser was found to be lame following his disappointing eighth place finish in the Gr1 Dubai Golden Shaheen.

Saudi Cup exertions were attributed to some of the other disappointments.

On a tough day for punters, only one fancied runner arrived in the nine races.

The Hollywoodbets Punters’ Challenge, which has paid out over R38,2 million in four years, hosted a once-off competition on the Dubai World Cup meeting.

Only one of the 10 399 participating players, Dotti (233,69 points), managed to find 5 winners.

Mr Shiesty took the lion’s share of the R20 000 cash prize that was shared amongst the top 25, after he topped the leaderboard with 4 winners and 248 points.

FIRST AWAY START PROVES VICTORIOUS FOR

DANON DECILE

Danon Decile proved to be yet another emerging international superstar for Japan with a decisive victory in the Longines Gr1 Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan on Saturday.

In a deep and constantly evolving event, last year’s Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) hero was given a sensible and patient ride by Keita Tosaki as the pace up front changed frequently.

At first it was Danon Decile’s compatriot Shin Emperor, the Japanese Derby third who has already established himself in the global arena and scored in Saudi Arabia last month, out in

Danon Decile (Keita Tosaki) leaves the competition in the dust | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

front before Godolphin’s defending champion Rebel’s Romance took over with around 1400m to go.

William Buick and Rebel’s Romance looked to have the race at their mercy turning into the home straight before Durezza threw down the first challenge with 400m remaining.

Tosaki, however, was beginning to gather momentum on Danon Decile and the handsome chestnut charged past the pair

on what was only his tenth start and his first outside his homeland in a time of 2:27.05.

French challenger Calandagan began his own run even later but closed through for second, a length and a quarter behind, with Durezza shading Rebel’s Romance for the minor placing.

It was an equally important win for Danon Decile’s promising trainer, Shogo Yasuda, whose father Takayuki prepared the legendary

An exuberant Keita Tosaki savours the win on Danon Decile | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

sprinter-turned-sire Lord Kanaloa, while Tosaki had finished second in the 2021 Dubai World Cup on Chuwa Wizard.

“He’s a very, very good horse,” said Tosaki, three-time champion jockey in Japan. “There was huge pressure on me so it’s fantastic to win this race.

“For the people watching at home in Japan so late, I am so happy, thank you so much.”

Tosaki added: “He was excited before the race, but he settled when he got into the stall. He ran a great race, travelled really well on the bridle.

“I expected him to run a similar race to the Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) and he did it.

“I knew the field was very strong, but I thought Danon Decile was competitive. I am delighted we proved his ability here in Dubai.”

LEFT HEARTBROKEN A RUSH AS ROMANTIC FANS

Soul Rush and Cristian Demuro broke the hearts of the global legion of Romantic Warrior fans as the Japanese challenger swooped late, leading in the very final stride of a pulsating $5 million Gr1 Dubai Turf Sponsored By DP World at Meydan on Saturday.

Three years after the judge was unable to split Lord North and Panthalassa, a dead-heat looked an increasingly likely outcome as the judge studied fractions and pixels.

Eventually the number nine was called and Demuro punched the air as victory was confirmed.

Soul Rush is the epitome of the late-bloomer, having won his first Grade 1 in last season’s Mile Championship at the age of six.

Soul Rush (Cristian Demuro, green cap) and Romantic Warrior (James McDonald) go hammer and tongs to the wire | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Now trainer Yasutoshi Ikee has him in the form of his life, with this victory backing up an excellent second to Voyage Bubble in the Hong Kong Mile.

Romantic Warrior broke smartly, and James McDonald then enjoyed the perfect draft in second behind Japanese pacesetter Meisho Tabaru.

The world’s richest racehorse was sent to win his race turning in but never secured a decisive break on his pursuers, while all the time the eye was drawn to Soul Rush as he worked his way through rivals before engaging top gear in the final 200 metres.

Romantic Warrior appeared to lift again as he felt the presence of his rival and diving at the line both horses were at full stretch.

As the pair returned to be unsaddled and the tension mounted, Ikee congratulated Demuro, while apprehension was etched on McDonald’s face.

Japanese-trained horses have now won five of the last ten runnings of the Turf, while Ikee, a frequent flyer with horses like Orfevre and Satono Diamond down the years, was recording his most important success outside Japan.

Cristian Demuro accepts well-deserved congratulations | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

In behind Maljoom flew late to complete the places, having been a long last down the back.

Demuro said: “Last year, I was beaten by a nose (on Namur, second to Facteur Cheval). This year, I win by a nose. The luck was with me today. It’s as good a performance as he’s ever produced, he beat the best horse in the world today. He travelled well and he fought until the end. I’m so happy.

“Last year, I thought I had won until the last second. I just waited until the number went up. This year, I was more sure that I had won but I didn’t want to get ahead of myself. It is a special win because we are now part of the Romantic Warrior story;

he doesn’t lose many races, but today he found a good horse.

“Dubai World Cup night is the most special meeting. I’m very happy to come back here every year. I’m very lucky to get to ride some good horses every year and I’ve had some success here.”

Second placed Romantic Warrior’s jockey James McDonald said: “No, I didn’t know (if he’d held on). Close, wasn’t it? He’s had a long campaign.”

GOLDEN SHAHEEN 3YO DARK SAFFRON DAZZLES IN

A masterful ride by Connor Beasley saw local three-year-old Dark Saffron cause a massive shock with his success in the Gr1 Dubai Golden Shaheen at Meydan on Saturday.

The presence of two three-year-olds in the race for the first time since 2006 was already a talking point pre-race. Only five three-year-olds had ever contested the Golden Shaheen before and only two of them were bred in the Northern Hemisphere: My Catch, 12th in 2014, and Dios Corrida, 11th in 2017.

Of the two, Japanese talent American Stage was considered the vastly superior chance, although neither were seen as likely to challenge defending champion Tuz or champion American sprinter Straight No Chaser.

Connor Beasley holds the edge on Dark Saffron to beat Nakatomi (Emisael Jaramillo, green, pink cap) and Tuz (Tadhg O’Shea) in a thriller | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Connor Beasley was left speechless after a masterful ride | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

It looked even less likely when Ahmad bin Harmash’s Dark Saffron played up in the outside gate of 11, moments before the stalls opened.

But Beasley managed to straighten his head at the right time, and he bounced out fast and mustered speed quickly.

The two three-year-olds led up early, and after the first furlong it was apparent that Straight No Chaser would not add Dubai success to his illustrious resume. Dan Blacker’s charge was uncomfortable amongst horses with plenty of kickback in his face and was in trouble early on.

The only horse able to stay in touch with the three-year-olds was Tuz, who landed in the box seat and appeared likely to capitalise once they punctured.

However, he also came under riding approaching the 600m and his bid for back to back wins appeared forlorn. Tuz, though, is all heart and tried to rally up the rail. This is where Beasley’s tactical masterpiece came to the fore as he shut the door on Tadhg O’Shea aboard Tuz on a number of occasions.

Nakatomi charged late, Tuz made ground when it was all over but Dark Saffron, with a 3.5kg swing in the weights, was able to fend them off. He gave Beasley his second win of the night following First Classs’s Kahayla Classic success.

Beasley admitted he was “a bit speechless,” before paying tribute to his willing partner.

“He’s one of them, he’s just kept improving and he was in up against good competition on the turf. He’s got speed to burn and to do what he’s just done is incredible.

“It’s just a big relief. This is what it’s all about. We’ve got a good bunch of horses and to get a big winner like this on a night like this, it’s just fantastic.

“He’s got plenty of natural speed and it was probably a blessing being drawn out wide because I only had one option. The way he’s done it, it’s just fantastic.”

TWO CONTINENTS TAPIT MARES SHINE ON

Multiple champion sire Tapit has become an outstanding broodmare sire. This was underlined in no uncertain fashion on Saturday, with Tapit mares making their presence felt on two different continents.

Tapit is the broodmare sire of Saturday’s Gr1

Dubai World Cup winner Hit Show (Candy Ride), and the winners of Saturday’s Gr3 Gazelle Stakes and Gr2 Fasig-Tipton Santa Anita Oaks are both out of daughters of Tapit.

In landing Saturday’s Gr1 Dubai World Cup, Hit Show, a 20th Gr1 winner for his sire

Candy Ride, claimed his sixth graded win, with the five-year-old landing the Gr3 Withers Stakes at three, the Gr2 Lukas Classic, Gr2 Hagyard Fayette Stakes and Gr3 West Virginia Governor’s Stakes at four, and the Gr3 Louisiana Stakes this year.

One of three winners from four runners for the Gr2 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes winning Tapit mare Actress, Hit Show is the most accomplished horse to date bred on the Candy Ride/Tapit Cross.

The magnificent Tapit (Pulpit – Tap Your Heels) | Credit: Supplied

Tenmar (Nyquist), winner of Saturday’s Gr2 Fasig-Tipton Santa Anita Oaks, is out of the Tapit mare Amagansett. The three-year-old has won four graded races, including the Gr1 FanDuel Racing Del Mar Debutante Stakes and Gr2 Starlet Stakes.

Saturday’s Gr3 Gazelle Stakes queen Ballerina D’Oro (Medaglia D’Oro), who is out of the Tapit mare In The Moonlight, picked up 100 points towards a start in the Kentucky Oaks with her win at Aquaduct.

Ballerina D’Oro is not the first Medaglia D’Oro filly out of a Tapit mare to win the Gazelle, with her paternal half-sister Nostalgic (out of the Tapit mare Been Here Before) landing the same race in 2022.

To date, Tapit’s broodmare daughters have produced more than 120 stakes winners, headed by US Horse Of The Year and dual Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Mile winning sire Cody’s Wish.

Other standout performers produced by Tapit mares include fellow US champions Arcangelo (Arrogate) and Pretty Mischievous (Into Mischief), as well as Gr1 SAJC South Australian Derby winner Qafila (Not A Single Doubt), Japanese champion Gran Alegria (Deep

Impact), and Gr1 Pacific Classic winner Tripoli (Kitten’s Joy).

The evergreen son of Pulpit has been responsible for 15 black type winners as a broodmare sire in 2025. This tally includes not only Hit Show and Tenma, but also fellow graded stakes winners Red Route One, Final Gambit, Toupie and Recharge.

On a single weekend earlier this year, runners out of Tapit mares won all of the Gr2 Louisiana Derby, Gr3 Jeff Ruby Steaks, and Bourbonette Oaks.

Tapit mares have done particularly well when mated to Gun Runner, whose sire Candy Ride is also the sire of Hit Show. Tapit is broodmare sire of six Gun Runner graded stakes winners, including dual Gr1 winner Society.

Three times Champion Sire in North America, Tapit also looks set, once again, to make his presence felt in US Triple Crown races this year.

Tapit’s Gr1 Arkansas Derby winning son Sandman is a leading contender for the Gr1 Kentucky Derby, while recent Gr2 TwinSpires. Com Louisiana Derby winner Tiztastic, who is inbred to Tapit, was sired by his four time Gr1 winning grandson, Tiz The Law.

MALMOOS – IF YOU CAN’T BEAT THEM,

BUY THEM!

This week’s BSA National Yearling Sale marks a first appearance in the historic arena for nineteen of the offspring of one of the most exciting equine athletes of his generation, and only the fourth horse in history to win the South African Triple Crown.

Hail Malmoos!

A smashingly handsome blue-blooded son of multiple champion sire Captain Al, Malmoos first emerged onto the public stage in the very same arena that his progeny will be showcased

in on Thursday and Friday, when purchased on behalf of Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum, as the second top lot at R4,4 million off the 2019 National Yearling Sale.

Malmoos wins a Grade 2 at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Multiple champion trainer Mike de Kock guided the champion throughout his illustrious career, and with familiar parallels to Horse Chestnut’s facile victory in the Gr1 South African Derby more than two decades earlier, Malmoos galloped his way into South African turf history at Turffontein on 3 April 2021 as he registered his seventh victory from his first eight career starts, taking his earnings to over R3,5 million on that memorable Turffontein afternoon.

In the process he became the very last Grade 1 winning colt sired by former champion sire, Captain Al.

Fresh off his Dubai World Cup excursion this past weekend, Mike de Kock described Malmoos as one of those unique and very rare horses that ‘ticks all the boxes’.

“We have seen some of Malmoos’ offspring so far. They are very exciting and underscore their Dad’s visual hallmark of class and athleticism. Let’s face it, Malmoos was literally faultless as a racehorse, which history endorses, and now as a sire prospect. He had the good looks, he is correct, he has the pedigree, he had the elite level performance, and he was versatile as he won through a range of races from 1200m to 2450m. And now being based in the Ridgemont

stallion barn– an outstanding breeding operation – he will definitely get the very best opportunity to go to the top,” added De Kock.

Racing in the internationally recognised silks of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum, Malmoos possessed that eclectic hallmark of natural speed and stamina, winning seven races from 1200m to 2450m, including two Gr1 races, a Gr2 and a Gr3. In his brief, but distinguished career of twelve outings, Malmoos earned a rating of 125.

The regally pedigreed Malmoos is out of the Spook Express Handicap winner Justthewayyouare, a half-sister to Varsfontein sire Master Of My Fate.

It’s early days but the market have liked what they see! At the BSA Cape Yearling Sale in February, the Malmoos quintet fetched R1 550 000 at an average of R310 000.

At the CRS Premier Sale a few weeks later, Malmoos’ quartet grossed R1,1 million at an average of R275 000.

If you can’t beat them, buy them!

NATIONALS ICE RIDGEMONT’S SNITZEL STALLION BREAKS

In another 2025 BSA National Yearling Sale first, Ridgemont’s blue-blooded speed machine Real Gone Kid will see his first yearling through the time-honoured sales ring at the TBA Sales Complex in Gosforth Park on Friday when the aptly named chestnut colt, Kid From The South, comes under the hammer.

An incredible good-looker, and much in the mould of his exciting first season sire, the

muscular, racy colt stands over ground and has plenty of presence.

Selling as lot 293, and offered as agent by Soetendal, Kid From The South, who hails from the prolific family of Shoot The Booze and Gimme A Shot, is bred to fly with his two-time winning dam very quick!

A handsome chestnut, Real Gone Kid bears striking similarities to Ridgemont’s outstanding

Potent powerhouse! Real Gone Kid | Credit: Supplied

sire Rafeef, both being lightning-fast performers from the Redoute’s Choice male line.

A son of Redoute’s Choice’s greatest sire son, thus far, Snitzel is a multiple Champion Sire and Leading Sire of 2YO’s in Australia.

Hailing from a smashing female line, Real Gone Kid is a son of Equus Champion, and Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas and Gr1 Woolavington 2000 winner In The Fast Lane – a daughter of seven times South African champion sire Jet Master.

A speedster with an international standard pedigree that wouldn’t be out of place in any

stallion barn around the world, Ridgemont have committed support to Real Gone Kid, and Brett Crawford, who, trained the speed demon to all of his 6 wins, says he can fully understand why.

“Real Gone Kid is a smashing individual who had electrifying speed and a bloodline that could hold its own anywhere. He is throwing a good-looking yearling – strong, racy types, who all look like they will come early to hand and quick. He’s an exciting prospect,” added Crawford, who will soon take up a yard as Hong Kong’s newest trainer.

THE NHA WEEK IN A SNAPSHOT

The Sporting Post presents this week’s National Horseracing Authority Calendar.

The calendar is a summary of the past week’s penalties and registrations and is an easy-read snapshot of information.

The Sprint is interactive - please click on the image below:

JUST ONE SLEEP TO

NATIONALS!

A masterful ride by Connor Beasley saw local three-year-old Dark Saffron cause a massive shock with his success in the Gr1 Dubai Golden Shaheen at Meydan on Saturday.

The presence of two three-year-olds in the race for the first time since 2006 was already a talking point pre-race.

Only five three-year-olds had ever contested the Golden Shaheen before and only two of them were bred in the Northern Hemisphere: My Catch, 12th in 2014, and Dios Corrida, 11th in 2017.

Of the two, Japanese talent American Stage was considered the vastly superior chance, although neither were seen as likely to challenge defending champion Tuz or champion American sprinter Straight No Chaser.

Flashback to Nationals ’24 – Maine Chance Farm’s Andreas Jacobs chats to the Sanne’s of Oldlands | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Bloodstock SA CEO, Michael Holmes | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

It looked even less likely when Ahmad bin Harmash’s Dark Saffron played up in the outside gate of 11, moments before the stalls opened. But Beasley managed to straighten his head at the right time, and he bounced out fast and mustered speed quickly.

The two three-year-olds led up early, and after the first furlong it was apparent that Straight No Chaser would not add Dubai success to his illustrious resume. Dan Blacker’s charge was

uncomfortable amongst horses with plenty of kickback in his face and was in trouble early on.

The only horse able to stay in touch with the three-year-olds was Tuz, who landed in the box seat and appeared likely to capitalise once they punctured.

However, he also came under riding approaching the 600m and his bid for back to back wins appeared forlorn.

Tuz, though, is all heart and tried to rally up the rail. This is where Beasley’s tactical

masterpiece came to the fore as he shut the door on Tadhg O’Shea aboard Tuz on a number of occasions.

Nakatomi charged late, Tuz made ground when it was all over but Dark Saffron, with a 3.5kg swing in the weights, was able to fend them off. He gave Beasley his second win of the night following First Classs’s Kahayla Classic success.

Beasley admitted he was “a bit speechless,” before paying tribute to his willing partner.

“He’s one of them, he’s just kept improving and he was in up against good competition on the turf. He’s got speed to burn and to do what he’s just done is incredible.

“It’s just a big relief. This is what it’s all about. We’ve got a good bunch of horses and to get a big winner like this on a night like this, it’s just fantastic.

“He’s got plenty of natural speed and it was probably a blessing being drawn out wide because I only had one option. The way he’s done it, it’s just fantastic.”

NEW HIGHS ANTICIPATED AS

NATIONALS LOOM LARGE

The hours countdown to Thursday’s National Yearling Sale has started and with a catalogue not short of a firecracker or two, bidding will be brisk for those stockpiling future talent.

Last year, records tumbled across the board as the sale recorded both its highest aggregate and average ever.

Turnover soared by 30% to break through the R200-million mark for the first time in history, while the average rose for the third successive

Varsfontein bred Double Grand Slam – purchased by Gary Player for an even million Credit: Candiese Lenferna

year, reaching a dizzying R581,948, the median price jumped from R300,000 to R400,000, while more than forty yearlings breached the sevenfigure mark, the most expensive of which a R6million son of Gimmethegreenlight.

History has shown that many a big-price lot has failed to live up to its price tag or even reach a racetrack. For interest’s sake, let’s take a moment and see to what degree the most expensive yearlings of the past five sales have justified their lofty purchase prices.

The class of 2020 was headed by a R7-million son of Silvano purchased by Henning Pretorius, who had just become the new owner of the famed Summerhill Stud.

That small fortune was no surprise, given that at the time of purchase, he had three siblings burning up the track: half-brother Rainbow Bridge, who was on his way to Horse of the

Silvano son Celestial City – big ticket yearling now stands in KZN | Credit: JC Photos

Year honours; reigning champion three-year-old Hawwaam; and the season’s Gr1 Cape Derby winner Golden Ducat.

Remarkably, three years went by before Celestial City finally made it to the track as a four-year-old and much to the relief of his connections, he cracked his maiden first time out over a mile.

A frustrating string of seconds and thirds followed, but after finishing off the board for the first time in his career, he regained top form

with a vengeance by putting together a fine hat-trick of wins. Not seen out again for seven months, he blew away the cobwebs with a promising fourth on return, before a quest for black type took him to Hollywoodbets Greyville for the Listed Kings Cup. He acquitted himself with aplomb by chasing home paternal halfbrother Narina Trogon, a son of champion racemare Beach Beauty.

With this vital piece of black type to his name, and a pedigree which had ‘stallion’ written all over it, Celestial City retired to Summerhill in

2024 as a valuable addition to the KZN stallion ranks.

The 2021 sale was a more muted affair, with the top lot falling to Form Bloodstock at a ‘modest’ R2.8-million. By the soon-to-be crowned champion sire Gimmethegreenlight, the colt was out of champion juvenile All Is Secret, from the unstoppable Mystic Spring clan. Despite his pedigree credentials, Cheeky Laddie, as he was named, won just three races.

In comparison, a graduate who did justify his seven-figure price tag was the Rafeef colt Thunderstruck.

Purchased for an even million, the colt went on to championship honours by completing the coveted Gr1 Gold Medallion/Computaform Sprint double and is now a member of the Ridgemont stallion roster.

The most expensive yearlings of the 2022 sale also failed to live up to their lofty price tags. Forest God, a grandson of Mystic Spring, commanded the top price of R3.3-million, yet managed just a second place from three starts and pulled up lame in his final outing.

R3-million purchase price, as has Steadfast, a R2-million son of Gimmethegreenlight.

In contrast, the Gimmethegreenlight colt Sandringham Summit earned back every penny of his R1,7-million purchase price and with interest. Successful in the Gr1 Premiers Champion Stakes at two, he was voted the country’s Champion Juvenile and never finished off the board in his career before returning to birthplace Varsfontein in 2024 to stand alongside his esteemed sire.

Varsfontein, whose policy to retain its best fillies has paid huge dividends over the years, let one slip through the cracks so to speak when selling the Vercingetorix filly Double Grand Slam for an even million to golfing legend Gary Player.

As a two-time winner, Vercingetorix colt Celtic Chief has to date recouped a fraction of his

Her dam, the Gr3 winner Princess Peach is one of at least three stakes winning daughters of Princess Tobin roaming the stud’s paddocks and with such an embarrassment of riches at its disposal, the filly was perhaps considered superfluous. Be that as it may, she became the family’s latest Gr1 winner with a dynamic victory over Red Palace and Rascova in the Gr1 Cartier Paddock Stakes at in January.

In 2023, a filly once again topped the National Sales price list, eight years after Var’s daughter Ghaalla had sold for a whopping R5-million, a new sales record at the time. This time, the lucky vendor was Oldlands Stud’s Barbara Sanne, who turned an R8 000 investment into a R3,2-million windfall.

Oldlands had bred the filly’s dam Adorable and sold her as a yearling. Stakes placed at four, she was offered for sale as a broodmare in

2019, after her Elusive Fort yearling colt fetched just R55 000 off the farm. That colt turned out to be champion Kommetdieding.

As Barbara recalled: “We saw Adorable was offered online. I think ours was the only bid and we got her back for R8000! She was in foal to first-season sire Gold Standard at the time. On the strength of Kommetdieding, we sent her back to Elusive Fort in 2020 and she foaled this filly.”

Regulars! Jono and Chris Snaith checking out the talent at Nationals earlier this week | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Named Kommetjie Storm, the filly ran third on debut before cracking her maiden by an impressive 5,50 lengths. She finished off the board for the first time in four starts when unplaced behind Spumante Dolce in the Gr2 Gauteng Fillies Guineas.

The most expensive colt at R3-million was the Lancaster Bomber colt out of five-times Gr1 winner Inara. Named Air Raid, he made a winning debut at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth as a juvenile but has since failed to add to that.

Not so Immediate Edge, who changed hands at R1.2 million. The son of Vercingetorix rattled off three wins in as many starts, one of which the Listed Hawwaam Stakes, before finishing sixth in the Gr1 TAB SA Derby.

One to keep an eye on is Winds Of Change, who may yet live up to his R1,1-million price tag. A half-brother to champion Safe Space and the Gr1 winner Silver Sanctuary, this What A Winter colt showed infinite promise when cracking his maiden by just over six lengths, besides which he subsequently added a slew of black type places to his name, including a third in the Gr1 Gold Medallion.

He is clearly on the cusp of stakes class, following a fine third, beaten just two necks in the recent TAB Gr1 Computaform Sprint.

Last year’s National Sale was headed by a R6million son of Gimmethegreenlight purchased by the Hong Kong Jockey Club. News is that the prized colt is currently in quarantine and is destined to leave South Africa on 2 May.

It’s early days for the class of 2024, as the majority of seven-figure lots are yet to make their debuts, amongst which the R5,25-million half-brother to recent SA Derby hero Legend Of Arthur; a R5-million three-part brother to Spumante Dolce, a R3,6-million three-part sister to Horse of the Year Summer Pudding, a trio of R2,8-million siblings to Captain’s Ransom, champion Tempting Fate and aforementioned Celestial City respectively, as well as a R2,6million half-brother to Gr1 winner Snow Pilot.

Those that have stepped out on the track include winning debutante I’m A Fireball, a million Rand Vercingetorix colt out of the fine racemare Gibraltar Blue. Trained by the De Kock team for Hollywood Racing, he ran out an eyecatching 1.50 length winner at Hollywoodbets Scottsville just over a week ago.

NATIONALS WHERE THERE’S A HORSE FOR EVERYBODY!

Ahead of the 2025 Bloodstock SA National Yearling Sale on 10 and 11 April, the TBA complex will be a hive of activity as young horses from around the country start moving into their respective stable blocks.

Excitement will build with every arrival, while breeders prepare their reception areas to welcome prospective buyers.

The National Sale moved from the old Milner Park Showgrounds in Johannesburg to the TBA’s Gosforth Park complex in March, 1977.

Bloodstock SA has shaped the breeding landscape ever since with a commitment to excellence and integrity.

“South African racing thrives on diversity of talent, ownership, and opportunity. Bloodstock SA embraces this philosophy by fostering a marketplace that welcomes everyone,

not just a select few. Our auctions are built on transparency and fairness, giving every buyer the confidence to invest, knowing they are part of a level playing field,” says a BSA spokesperson.

This year, the prized catalogue features 346 lots, representing no fewer than 42 stallions, 35 stud farms and a further 21 vendors selling under the ‘agent’ banner. Whether you’re an established stable looking for a standout yearling or an aspiring owner taking your first steps into the industry, the National Sale provides access to top-quality thoroughbreds at competitive prices.

Year after year, Bloodstock SA graduates prove their worth on the racetrack, with champions

emerging from every tier of the market.

From future Grade 1 stars to honest, hardworking competitors, our sales produce winners at all levels, reinforcing our reputation as the auction house of choice for those who seek both quality and value.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, join us at the 2025 National Yearling Sale. We celebrate the joy of thoroughbred ownership, because great horses, and great dreams, come from all walks of life.

The Sprint is interactive – please click here for our lot-by-lot snapshot.

BEFORE YOU BUY…

The Raceform Buyers’ Guide is a detailed summary of the dam and siblings of the 2025 BSA National Yearling Sale yearlings. It gives insight as to what to expect of the youngsters in terms of class, stamina, sale price.

It’s essential reading for the prospective buyer.

The Sprint is interactive – please click here to read more.

BREAK THE BANK IT’S NOT NECESSARY TO TO BUY A CHAMPION

The National Yearling Sale is fast approaching, which means trainers and owners are burning the midnight oil poring over the sales catalogue in search of the next champion.

Healthy returns enjoyed by South African auction houses shows that the market for young thoroughbreds has bounced back with a vengeance since the end of the Covid pandemic. Demand appears to outstrip supply, not surprising given that many smaller breeders - and some of the old stalwarts have disappeared.

Gone are KZN breeding giants Summerhill and the Scott Bros, while the Western Cape has lost the likes of Daytona and Nadeson Park. It’s also no secret that rising production costs attribute to breeders taking their lesser broodmares out of production.

The best horses are therefore sold at a premium, as reflected by last year’s National Yearling Sale record average of R581 948.

Prospective buyers can take heart, however, for results from this past weekend’s Champions Day meeting at Turffontein starkly illustrated that many a fine racehorse has been bought for far less, with pride of place going to last

Ridgemont Gr1 Garden Province Stakes winner Humdinger – bought back for R50 000! | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

season’s Gr1 Premier Champions Challenge winner Royal Victory, who was snapped up by trainer Nathan Kotzen for a measly R90 000 at the National Sale four years ago.

Also successful in the Gr1 Betway Summer Cup, the son of Pathfork continued his love affair with Turffontein when he was nosed out of a repeat Champions Challenge win by threeyear-old Fire Attack in a humdinger, no-holdsbarred finish.

The winner, who is related to reigning Horse of the Year Dave The King, cost somewhat more as a yearling, R450 000 to be exact. But who’s counting when you have just added a Gr1 win to your name and also doubled your earnings

to over R2 million in one fell swoop!

Third placed Purple Pitcher also made a mockery of his R170 000 yearling price tag, given that he annexed both the Gr1 SA Classic and Gr1 SA Derby and padded an already sizeable bankroll to R4,3-million.

Main Defender, who defied top weight in the Gr2 Hawaii Stakes, also qualifies as a bargain buy. The Pathfork four-year-old changed hands for just R140 000 as a yearling, a far cry from an impressive bankroll of over R3-million and a ten-win haul headed by victory in last season’s Gr1 HF Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut Stakes.

Happy Main Defender connections -he was a R140 000 yearling | Credit: JC Photos

Another National Yearling Sale graduate, the Crawford-trained Fatal Flaw, added the Gr1 Empress Club Stakes to her Cape Fillies Guineas success under similar frontrunning tactics.

Trainer Brett Crawford had parted with just R210 000 to secure the filly from the 2023 sale, and as a dual Gr1 winner, she is now worth a small fortune.

The same applies to SA Oaks winner Fiery Pegasus. A runaway winner of the Gr1 SA Fillies Classic, she put daylight between herself and her rivals when cutting out the running in final leg of the Triple Tiara, and although tiring towards the end, she gamely held on to take the honours by a shorthead. This daughter of Captain Of All came with a price tag of R330 000, but has recouped that five-fold, her latest success boosting her earnings to over R1,6 million.

Ace sprinter William Robertson finally broke through at Gr1 level in the Computaform Sprint and cost trainer Corne Spies R500 000 as a 2YO back in 2020, money well spent, given that this first Gr1 victory and 15th overall, took his lifetime earnings past the R3-million mark.

Last weekend’s big races aside, the haul of additional Gr1 winners over the past twelve months reads like a Who’s Who, and all were purchased at auction without breaking the bank.

Crack three-year-old One Stripe was one that got away from Drakenstein Stud when he fetched no more than R100 000 in the sales ring; a final bid of R175 000 secured reigning Horse Of The Year Dave The King; crack filly VJ’s Angel cost R200 000; Majorca victress Rascova sold for R260 000; whilst Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July hero Oriental Charm and Gr1 Cape Met and Derby winner Eight On Eighteen both commanded a final bid of R375 000.

Last but not least, Ridgemont Gr1 Garden Province Stakes winner Humdinger and champion juvenile Qui Pro Quo were both bought back in the ring for buttons, the former for R50 000 and the latter for R60 000.

All of this goes to show that yes, it is possible to purchase a ‘good one’ without spending an arm and a leg, a heartening fact which should boost buyers’ confidence for next week’s twoday sale.

TRUE TO FORM STALLIONS OF YESTERYEAR

As I’ve worked my way through the volumes of Form Stallion Register, I haven’t commented each time on repeat entries. Mexico was in each of the first three, and a few of the star performers (e.g. Jungle Cove and Elliodor) are in II and III.

Oscar Foulkes writes that in working through Volume III, one of the features that jumped out at him was the large number of stallions that had already done duty elsewhere in the world.

For a few of them, their relocation was a response to their progenies’ performance here.

Making the case for the importation of established stallions, Condorcet and Home Guard performed creditably, while Singh left three Grade I winners from four local crops numbering just 128 foals

The sires of Foveros, Spanish Pool, On Stage and Devon Air all made their way to South Africa. In the case of these, just Averof could be regarded as making a positive local contribution, with just under 6% stakes-winners (from foals). On the whole, other than a couple of star performers, there just wasn’t enough depth in their overseas record to warrant their importation.

Making the case for the importation of established stallions, Condorcet and Home Guard performed creditably, while Singh left three Grade I winners from four local crops numbering just 128 foals. Northfields was imported at age 15 and did not repeat his overseas record.

The star of this firmament, though, was Dancing Champ. His record of 61% winners and 10.7% stakes-winners included the likes of Olympic Duel and other top middle-distance performers.

What set his overseas record apart was a cumulative AEI of over 2 (i.e. the average earnings of his runners, expressed as a ratio of all runners over the same period, was double the average). Equally important, he was improving on his mares (in other words, their results by other stallions were inferior to Dancing Champ). Stallions like this are not easily let go of, for obvious reasons!

While these factors become moot once a stallion has runners, Dancing Champ was a top-class racehorse by Nijinsky, from an excellent family. Like Jungle Cove and Elliodor, he ticked a lot of boxes.

In the same era, we had two other successful sons of Nijinsky.

The more conventional choice, Peacetime, was imported at a cost of R2.5 million (over R58 million when adjusted for inflation).

He earned a Timeform rating of 125 with top-class British form over middle distances. His abbreviated stud career left the Grade I-winning Saintly Lady, as well as percentages that exceeded breed averages. Given his credentials, though, one can’t imagine that expectations of his stud career were anywhere near being matched by his final record. He

earns some posthumous credit by siring the grandam of Vercingetorix.

On the other hand, Russian Fox started his career in France, ending up on the Turf circuit in Florida, although outside Graded stakes company.

It takes a bit of careful form study, but he showed smart ability in Allowance races.

He wasn’t the typical Nijinsky physical type, in that he was a smaller, closer-coupled horse more typical of his grandsire, Northern Dancer. Bred to the poorest of mares, he fired with his first crop.

There seemed to be an affinity for mares by sons of Drum Beat, or other Fair Trial line stallions. One would have expected his results to ramp up as he covered better mares, but for unknown reasons he stayed in the aboveaverage category with 56% winners and 5% stakes-winners. Interestingly, the Fair Trial nick wasn’t utilised to the extent one may have expected, and in some years he covered no Fair Trial line mares at all.

Of course, Russian Fox was the broodmare sire of Mother Russia (and her grandam was by Drum Beat).

Russian Fox was initially purchased (at one-sixth of the cost of Peacetime) by Piet Nel, a man characterised by his bushy grey moustache framing a playful smile. Matching his down to earth nature, he was often seen in shorts and red vellies.

He came to racing and breeding from the somewhat scrappy world of trucking. One wouldn’t say that either he, nor his similarly grey stallion, came from the elite inner circles of the industry.

Greys from the fringes feature again, in the form of the grey I’m Exclusive (purchased at one-tenth of the cost of Peacetime), a US-bred and raced son of Exclusive Native that stood at Loretta Krein’s Windy Way Stud.

Pictures of him show a deep-chested, muscular horse with severely bowed tendons. He couldn’t have been a sound horse, being unraced at two, starting just once at three (finishing 2nd), five starts at four (in the money every time, including breaking his maiden),

and three at five (two wins). He must have had ability, though, to justify keeping him in training all that time.

He sired just four crops of 121 foals.

When you look at the sires of the mares he covered, you could almost imagine Loretta resorting to rounding up stray Thoroughbreds in the Port Jackson bush that characterises the area around Philadelphia, Atlantis and Mamre where her stud was located. You may not even have found pedigrees as lowly in bush racing.

Taban, a super son of Home Guard | Credit: Supplied

And yet he sired eight stakes-winners, including the Queen’s Plate winning I’m Taking It, as well as several other Grade I performers.

The suggestion is that some minimum of above-average racing talent, pedigree and looks are required. It does not appear to be necessary to display the racing talent in Grade I races, but it must be there. If the stallion has the ability to transmit that to another generation, he will, almost regardless of the opportunity he is given. There was comparatively large cohort that had been imported for racing purposes and were then retired to stud. Three were sons of Sharpen Up, one by Red God, as well as Derring Do, Habitat and others. The sole relative success was Fine Edge, with 55% winners and 5% stakes-winners. In retrospect, perhaps they needed just a little more racing ability to pass on to their progeny.

Readers familiar with this era may be wondering when I’m going to get to Northern Guest, a popular Champion Sire.

He had 19 local crops, totalling 1096 foals. The high points were siring the likes of Senor Santa, Northern Princess and a few others, because

for the rest his percentages were dead-on average for the breed: 51% winners and 3.8% stakes-winners. In the mid-90s he had three crops of nearly 100 foals, when most stallions were producing less than half that number.

The triumph of hope over evidence was also exemplified by Golden Thatch’s full-brother, Waterville Lake. Largely on the basis of siring the Champion Sprinter, Flobayou, his career extended to 13 crops, cashing in at a belowaverage 47% winners and 2.7% stakes-winners.

Any look at the stallions of Volume III would be incomplete without recounting the tale of Argosy.

By a Triple Crown winner, Affirmed, this half-brother to another Triple Crown winner, Seattle Slew, was purchased by a syndicate headed by Graham Beck and the Birch Bros.

This was just after the sale of Wolf Power, which left the Birches with a looming tax problem. This could be remedied by the purchase of a stallion, which was a perfectly sensible way of dealing with the issue.

However, they were advised (by smart banker-types, no doubt) to fund the purchase with a low interest, dollar-denominated loan.

No forward cover was in place, which nearly doubled the final cost when the Rand fell out of bed soon after.

As if the search for good stallions wasn’t already sufficiently difficult, risky, and expensive.

Affirmed’s Triple Crown saw him doing duel with Alydar. I highly recommend a detour on YouTube, to watch the two doing battle, two mighty chestnut colts descending from Raise A Native (Affirmed by Exclusive Native and Alydar

by Raise A Native himself).

Ultimately, the victor was the lesser stallion, with Alydar’s progeny achieving far more than those of Affirmed. Argosy was from Affirmed’s first crop, so this was not known at the time of his purchase.

Ed – Courtesy of Oscar Foulkes, Volume Four sees the arrival of grandsons of Raise A Native, through Alydar and Mr Prospector…

Russian Fox | Credit: Supplied

ASCOT

OUTSTANDING FAMILIES THE KEY!

Ascot Stud, one of South Africa’s most consistent sources of top-class racehorses, is home to a pair of stallions who have been in the news of late.

Ascot Stud, one of South Africa’s most consistent sources of top-class racehorses, is home to a pair of stallions who have been in the news of late.

Ascot’s resident sires Global View and Heavenly Blue are responsible for Dave The King and Truth respectively, with the former recently named the Cape Bred Horse Of The Year for 2023-2024, while the classy Truth won the 4Racing Gr3 National Currency Sprint. The farm will be offering an excellent draft at the 2025 National Yearling Sale, with this consignment including yearlings sired by Erik The Red, Fire Away, Heavenly Blue, Master Of

My Fate, Rafeef, and South Africa’s reigning champion sire Gimmethegreenlight.

One of the most striking aspects about Ascot’s National Yearling Sale draft is how many outstanding female lines are represented here. This string includes yearlings from the families of such star performers as Coral Fever, On Her Toes, Blame, Sadler’s Wells, Archipenko, Aussie Rules, Alpinista, and Holy Roman Emperor.

Roxbury Park (Lot 238) is a colt bound to find favour with buyers. A son of multiple champion sire Gimmethegreenlight, he is out of Queen Of Pop, a winning own-sister to Grr1 Cape Flying Championship winner Gulf Storm and Gr3 Sycamore Sprint queen Seattle Singer. This colt’s granddam is a four-time winning half-sister to the Ascot bred champion Rock Opera, dam of French Gr1 winner, and Gr1 sire, Royal Meeting.

Another colt with an eye catching pedigree is Tango Master (Lot 167), a son of Rafeef and Gimmethegreenlight’s Gr3 placed daughter Light On Her Toes, with the latter being a daughter of Gr1 Allan Robertson Fillies Championship winner On Her Toes. The ever consistent Master Of My Fate is represented here by both Candyland (Lot 213), a filly whose twice winning dam is a full-sister to the top-class filly Cover Look and My Girl Kate (Lot 326). The latter, directly descended in female line from the great Fanfreluche, is a halfsister to four winners notably dual Sun Chariot Handicap victress United Council, who recently won for a fifth time.

(Lot 53), a Heavenly Blue half-brother to Gr1 Champions Challenge hero Coral Fever, Grey Knight (Lot 96), a Heavenly Blue half-brother to multiple stakes winner Fairy Knight, and Rocking In Rio (Lot 250). The latter, who hails from the same female line as such outstanding performers as Arc winner Alpinista and French 2000 Guineas winning sire Aussie Rules, to name but two, is a Heavenly Blue half-brother to Gr3 Flamboyant Stakes winner Rockie Reef and a full-brother Listed Lady’s Pendant heroine Three Rocks. This draft can be found in Blocks B and C at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

Wow! Ascot’s Snitzel stallion, Heavenly Blue | Credit: Pauline Herman

AVONTUUR QUALITY THE THEME

Avontuur Estate continues to live up to its billing for producing fine wine and fast horses. The latest Avontuur bred to impress is exciting two-year-old Dreamworld.

The latter was all the rage prior to making his debut at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth earlier this year and he duly lived up to expectations with a fluent victory.

Avontuur will be bringing a superb draft to the 2025 National Yearling Sale, with this string not only including yearlings sired by the likes of Gimmethegreenlight, Rafeef and Vercingetorix but also horses from some of the finest families in the South Africa stud book.

One colt bound to prove popular is the blueblooded October Rush (197), a colt by top sire Rafeef out of the wonderful racemare and producer Miss October. Winner of five races including the Gr3 Tommy Hotspur Handicap, the regally bred Miss October has produced six winners, with this tally headed by a pair of Gr1

winners in the form of champion Tempting Fate and 2024 South African Fillies Sprint queen October Morn.

Pocket Power’s Gr1 J&B Met winning fullsister River Jetez has proved as successful at stud as she was on the racetrack. The former globetrotting star is represented here by Ebb And Flow (Lot 249), a colt by outstanding sire Vercingetorix. Safe to say that Ebb And Flow, a half-brother to both Gr1 Computaform Sprint winner Rivarine and Gr3 Kenilworth Fillies Nursery victress Delta Queen, is a colt with a stallion’s pedigree!

Vercingetorix looks set to be crowned Champion Sire this season, and the son of Silvano has another well bred yearling on offer in the form of Zodiac (Lot 298). This filly is out of East Cape champion Star Burst Galaxy, whose Gr3 Victress Stakes winning halfsister Star Express (sired, like Vercingetorix, by Silvano) produced the exported Equus Champion Bless My Stars. Further back,

this is the family of top sprinter Bull Valley, as well as champion Model Man.

Champion Hawwaam, like Vercingetorix, has two lots on offer here, including Maximum Effort (Lot 246), a beautifully bred half-sister to two black type horses notably dual Listed Umngeni Handicap victor Pray For Rain, while Cubano

(Lot 195) is a colt by reigning champion sire Gimmethegreenlight and he is a half-brother to Listed East Cape Breeders Stakes winner Carioca.

This consignment can be found in Block C at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

QUALITY QUARTET BENMARNE’S

Quality, not quantity, dictates terms for Benmarne Stud’s consignment for this year’s National Sale.

The Botha family will be offering a quality quartet of yearlings at the two day auction, with Benmarne offering a filly by Querari and three colts by Heavenly Blue. All four yearlings hail from high-class families, and Arne Botha is understandably pleased with what he is bringing to the sale.

Arne had the following comments to make about his four yearlings:

Lot 178: Love You Lots f QuerariLove From Al

Very nice, well balanced filly with good legs. Good walker.

Bred on the same Querari/Love From Al cross as graded stakes winners Questioning, Head Honcho and Kampala Campari, Love You Lots is out of a twice winning daughter of Captain Al. From one of the best families around, this

filly hails from the same female line as breed shaping stallions Sadler’s Wells, Nureyev and Fairy King.

Lot 276: Sunny Creek c Heavenly BlueShe’s A Dragon

This is a nice quality, good sized colt, he has a nice length of rein with good legs.

By a Gr1 winning son of Snitzel, this colt is out of the Gr1 SA Fillies Classic third She’s A Dragon. This colt’s granddam is a winning full-sister to top Hong Kong sprinter Cerise Cherry, and this is the family of champion Battle Maiden, sired, like this colt’s granddam, by Goldkeeper.

Lot 279: Draupner c Heavenly BlueShield Maiden

Nice first produce, he is well related and good walker.

Lot 301: Blue Rock Paradise c Heavenly Blue -Stopthinkingofme

Nice colt, good legs, he will grow into a nice three-year-old.

This colt is out of a winning half-sister to the dam of Gr1 ATC Golden Rose winner In The Congo, who, like Heavenly Blue, was sired by Snitzel. This colt’s dam is a half-sister to multiple Gr1 winner and Equus Champion Via

Africa, with the latter also the dam of top-class Australian filly Autumn Glow.

Benmarne’s National Sale draft can be found in Block B at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

The Beauty of Benmarne Stud

FORECAST BRIGHT BLUE SKIES

Top-class female lines and high-class producers are very much to the fore in Blue Sky Thoroughbreds’ consignment for this year’s National Yearling Sale.

Added to the mix such popular stallions as Chimichuri Run, Hawwaam, Legislate, Master Of My Fate, New Predator and reigning champion Gimmethegreenlight, and buyers are bound to find plenty to admire about this draft.

Gimmethegreenlight is responsible for a regally bred colt (Lot 22), who is a three-parts brother to classy sprinter Gimmelightning, and this colt is bred on the potent Gimmethegreenlight/Fort Wood cross.

Certainlydifferent (Lot 237) is a filly bound to attract attention, with this daughter of Lance a three-parts sister to the Lance sired superstar Quid Pro Quo. Destined for an international campaign, the brilliant Quid Pro Quo has won six of nine starts, and is the only horse ever to win the Gr1 Allan Robertson Championship, Gr2 Zulu Kingdom Explorer Golden Slipper and Gr1 Douglas Whyte Thekwini Stakes.

Blue Sky’s exciting young sire Chimichuri Run has four members of his first crop on offer.

Connect Me, a four time winning daughter of Gr2 SA Oaks winner Cyber Cento, has a filly (Lot 51) in this draft, while five time winner Georgina Rose has a colt (Lot 119), who is closely inbred to champion sire Trippi, on sale.

The Tsogo Sun Sprint winning Chimichuri Run is also the sire of a half-sister (Lot 154) to three winners including the useful Minogue, and by a half-sister (Lot 158) to the very smart performer Player. Master Of My Fate consistently ranks among the leading sires, and that son of Jet Master is represented here by a colt (Lot 186) from the family of Gr1 winners Nania, Red Ray and Set Afire, while champion Hawwaam, who has made such a promising start to his stud career, is the sire of a filly (Lot 180) out of a stakes winning half-sister to Gr1 Cape Guineas winner and successful sire Act Of War.

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

ALWAYS A FACTOR DRAKENSTEIN

Drakenstein Stud has enjoyed another fantastic season in 2024-2025.

At the time of writing, horses bred by Drakenstein Stud had won 12 black type races in South Africa, including the Grr1 L’Ormarins King’s Plate, G1 World Sports Betting Cape Town Met, G1 Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas, Gr1 SplashOut Cape Derby, Gr2 Cape Punters Cup and Gr3 New Turf Carriers Western Cape Stayers, with Drakenstein Stud bred gallopers Eight On Eighteen and Sail The Seas finishing first and second respectively in the Gr1 SplashOut Cape Derby.

Drakenstein also bred classy gelding Mid Winter Wind, who impressed when he made a winning Hong Kong debut earlier in the year.

The farm will be offering a cracking draft at the upcoming National Yearling Sale, where Drakenstein Stud will be offering yearlings sired by the likes of Gimmethegreenlight, Master Of My Fate, Querari, Rafeef, and sensational resident sire One World.

Drakenstein’s Kevin Somerville had the following comments to make about this exciting draft:

Our yearlings for this year’s NYS is very much in the mould of the vintage Nationals draft.

We’ve got plenty of horses bred with races such as the July, Met and Summer Cup in mind.

Lot 19: Green Fairway c Gimmethegreenlight -Archerfield

This colt is a brother to three stakes horses, with plenty of scope. He’s well-balanced and has a lovely look about him.

Lot 20: Fallen Ash c Futura -Ash Cloud

He is a half-brother to the Gr2 winner Pacaya and Gr3 winner Silver Hills, out of Gr1 winner Ash Cloud. He really catches the eye and is typical of his grandsire Dynasty with a great walk and a lot of class.

Lot 63: Dance With Abandon c Legislate

-Danceaboutthesun

This colt is another classic individual by Cape Derby winner Legislate. He’s closely inbred to Sadlers Wells, from a very live family, including recent Graded SW Great Plains. He is strong, scopey with plenty of size with an easy, flowing action.

Lot 262: Naked Gun c Legislate - Se Agabor

This colt is out of the Trippi mare, Se Agabor and he is a half-brother to Champion 2YO Gabor. In the mould of his father, he is correct with length and a good walk. Hopefully he turns out to be a classic, fitting of his name.

Lot 271: Rare Find c Rafeef -Serruria

By inform sire Rafeef, this colt is a half-brother to Graded SW Seville Orange. Out of the Galileo mare, Serruria, he is a strong bodied type with plenty of length and looks to be fast.

Drakenstein Stud’s National Sale draft can be viewed from Blocks A and D at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

Late Drakenstein stallion Duke Of Marmalade – his dynasty lives on | Credit: Drakenstein Stud

SISTER THE STANDOUT CAPTAIN’S RANSOM’S

There is no denying that the late Captain’s Ransom was an exceptional filly. Horse Of The Year, Champion Sprinter and Champion Older Filly of 2021-2022, Captain’s Ransom won or placed in 18 of 19 starts, and she earned R3 532 125 in stakes. The champion daughter of Captain Al won nine graded races, including the World Sports Betting Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas, Gr1 Majorca Stakes (twice), Gr1 Paddock Stakes, Gr1 South African Fillies Sprint and Gr1 Mercury Sprint.

Her premature death was a tragic loss to the South African industry, but Captain’s Ransom will not be forgotten anytime soon.

Klawervlei Stud, as Agent, will be offering a Vercingetorix half-sister (Lot 49) to this wonderful filly at the 2025 National Yearling Sale. This filly, by South Africa’s Leading Sire of 2024-2025, is out of the Red Ransom mare Cinnas Ransom, a half-sister to a pair of stakes winners, notably French Gr3 winner Black Rock Desert.

However, this beautifully bred filly is but one of several very appealing lots to be found in the Klawervlei draft, acting as Agent’s consignment for this year’s National Yearling Sale.

Other attractive prospects include the Vercingetorix colt (Lot 62) whose dam is a full-sister to Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint winner and star producer Real Princess, the Gimmethegreenlight colt (Lot 131) out of Gr2 Gauteng Filllies Guineas heroine Heaps Of Fun, and the Vercingetorix filly (Lot 343) out of dual Gr3 Track And Ball Oaks winner Witchcraft. The latter filly, bred on the same cross as champion Mrs Geriatrix, is out of a half-sister to Gr1 Allan Robertson Championship winner Under Your Spell and this beautifully bred filly hails from the same family as Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Levmoss, among many others.

Klawervlei Stud’s National Sale draft can be found in Block H at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

FROM LAMMERSKRAAL SIZZLING SELECTION

Lammerskraal Stud is a farm long renowned for the quality of its broodmare band.

This can clearly be reflected in the quality of yearlings that Lammerskraal will be offering at this year’s National Yearling Sale.

Their draft is made up of yearlings sired by Hawwaam, Master Of My Fate, Rafeef and the record breaking Vercingetorix, but it is the class of mare represented which is the standout factor in this consignment.

Descendants of such star producers and racemares as Fanfreluche, Taineberry, Laptop Lady, Enchanting and Miss October abound here.

One yearling bound to attract attention is Feast Of Berries (Lot 244), a filly by Vercingetorix out of Jonsson Workwear Gr1 Garden Province Stakes winner Redberry Lane. Not only is this filly by the same sire as such star fillies as Double Grand Slam, Spumante Dolce and Mrs Geriatrix, but her Gr1 winning dam has already

produced a pair of winners including the very useful performer Rondebosch. Bred on similar lines to Gr1 winner Silvano’s Pride, Feast Of Berries’ dam is a full-sister to Gr1 Bloodstock

SA Cape Guineas/Gr2 K R A Guineas winner Solo Traveller.

Another beautifully bred yearling sired by Vercingetorix is the well named Viva Asterix (Lot 336). This colt, a three-parts brother to the smart Silver Maria and half-brother to Gr3 Campanajo 2200 winner Sovereign Spirit, is out of the Jet Master sired Gr1 Woolavington 2000 winner Viva Maria.

Var’s Gr3 Tommy Hotspur Handicap winning daughter Miss October has been an excellent producer, with her progeny including a pair of Gr1 winners in the form of October Morn and Tempting Fate. Her high-class daughter Spring Break, a Gr2 placed full-sister to the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint winning October Morn, is responsible for the Rafeef colt October Reef (Lot 295), and this colt is certainly bred to be quick!

The ever popular Rafeef is also the sire of Egolee (Lot 87), a filly out of a multiple stakes winning half-sister to champion Jay Peg, while Fair Fate (Lot 116) is a Master Of My Fate halfbrother to a pair of stakes winners in the form of Listed Ibhayi Stakes victor Fabian and Listed

City Of Cape Town Sophomore Sprint hero Future Variety.

This draft can be found in Block F at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

MORE MAGIC ON OFFER MAINE CHANCE

Cosmic Speed. Zeitz. American Graffiti.

Marauding Horde. Light Speed.

These are just a few recent stakes winners sold by Maine Chance Farms at the National Yearling Sale.

Maine Chance, home to one of the best stallion line-ups in South Africa, will be offering another top-quality draft at this year’s National Sale.

Among the stallions represented in Maine

Chance’s National string are star resident sires Querari and Vercingetorix, as well as the likes of Gimmethegreenlight, One World, Rafeef, and What A Winter.

Outstanding sire, and former National Sale graduate, Vercingetorix is responsible for some exceptionally well bred yearlings here. Vercingetorix’s offering includes Perfect Sky (Lot 222) a filly whose winning dam is a fullsister to the Gr2 winning dam of champion

Princess Calla, Sommernacht (Lot 291) a colt out of the Var sired Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint winner

Sommerlied, and True To Love (Lot 323). True

To Love, one of the best bred fillies on sale, sports stakes winners as her first three dams, with her speedy dam True To Life winning both the Gr3 Wilgerbosdrift Tommy Hotspur Handicap and Gr3 Gauteng Tourism Authority Magnolia Handicap.

Querari, whose progeny include this season’s Gr1 Wilgerbosdrift HF Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut Stakes winner and National Sale graduate Cosmic Speed, has several well bred offspring on sale. They include Fancy Life (Lot 113), a full-sister to the smart Fleeting, Libiamo (Lot 159), a colt whose granddam is a halfsister to champion sire of Silvano, and Twilight (Lot 317). The latter, bred on the same cross as the aforementioned Cosmic Speed, is a filly whose dam Tia is a winning full-sister to Gr2

Gauteng Guineas/Gr3 London News Stakes winner Tellina.

Other exceptional prospects to be found in this draft include Palmarosa (Lot 225), the Gimmethegreenlight filly out of Gr1

Wilgerbosdrift SA Oaks winner Pine Princess, and Sierra Nevada (Lot 282), a colt by Rafeef out of Silvano’s Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas winner Silver Mountain. The latter, a daughter of 2015-2016 Equus Champion Broodmare Our Table Mountain, is a half-sister to four black

type horses notably Equus Champion, and Gr1

SA Nursery winner, Cloth Of Cloud.

This draft can be viewed from Blocks C and D at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

Maine Chance magic! | Credit: Maine Chance Farms

LOOKING FOR THE NEXT CONFEDERATE…

Moutonshoek recently went close to celebrating a major Grade One double.

The Moutonshoek bred rising star Confederate claimed his biggest win to date when he ran out a convincing winner of the recent Gr1 TAB SA Classic, while the very next race saw the Moutonshoek bred Texas Red run an absolute cracker to finish second in the Gr1 Wilgerbosdrift HF Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut Stakes.

Buyers will have their own chance to acquire a top-class Grade One winner when Moutonshoek bring a classy draft to the upcoming National Yearling Sale.

Bennie Van Der Merwe’s National string includes yearlings sired by the likes of Fire Away (the sire of Confederate), Danon Platina, Rafeef, and resident sire The United States (whose progeny include the aforementioned Texas Red). Bennie is confident that buyers will like what they see, and had the following comments to make about his National Yearling Sale stars:

Lot 4: King Solomon c Fire Away -Zingara

This is a well balanced colt from a good family. Bred on the same cross (Fire Away x Danehill Dancer) as recent Gr1 TAB SA Classic winner CONFEDERATE.

Lot 31: Kazenoyoni c Danon Platina -Bize

Well muscled colt with a lot of substance, he is an imposing sort and a good mover.

Lot 105: Catherine Flick f The United States -Fire Stone

This filly is an own sister to the useful Idabelle, Riverstone and exciting debut winner Henry Harvey (who sadly got injured in a riding accident in Cape Town where he was to partake in the summer season for 3yo colts.)

She is beautifully balanced and the mare’s best physical specimen to date.

Lot 252: Forries Rose f The United States -Rose Of Tralee

The United States half sister to Forries Waltz. She is a very impressive physical specimen with a kind temperament to boot.

Lot 266: Conceal c The United States

-Secret Alley

This colt scored very high marks from the selection panel. A standout specimen with a great walk and quarter.

Lot 275: Rainbow Flight f Rafeef

-She’s A Cracker

The filly is well grown for a first foal and is neat and balanced.

Moutonshoek’s draft can be found in Block E at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

Moutonshoek – horse country supreme! | Credit: Moutonshoek

NARROW CREEK SHINING LIGHTS

The good run of form enjoyed by Narrow Creek Stud bred thoroughbreds last season has continued into the new year.

Not only was the Narrow Creek bred champion Isivunguvungu a leading fancy for Saturday’s Gr1 Al Quoz Sprint, but the likes of Buffalo Storm Cody, Queen Of Love, Golden Destiny, and Tomyris just a few of the many Narrow Creek Stud bred winners of the 2024-2025 South African season.

Narrow Creek will be offering colts by Buffalo Bill Cody, Canford Cliffs, Hawwaam, Malmoos, Rafeef as well as fillies by Rafeef at the upcoming National Yearling Sale.

John Everett picked four potential standouts in his draft:

Lot 140: Cheap Perfume f Rafeef -Isabelle Redoute’s Choice’s Gr1 Computaform Sprint winning son has had another great season, with his flagbearers including such graded stakes winners as Chasing Happiness, Mon

Petit Cherie and Outlaw King. Isabelle, the dam of classy galloper Joker Man, is a twice winning Western Winter half-sister to a pair of Gr1 winning two-year-olds, both of whom now stand at stud, in the form of Eden Roc and Sandringham Summit. She is a very neat, racy filly out of a half sister to Sandringham Summit

Lot 177: Blue Hotel c Hawwaam -Lotus Champion Hawwaam has made a promising start with his first runners and ranks as one of the leading first season sires this season. Lotus is a twice winning daughter of Flower Alley and her granddam is champion Rat Burana. Smart athletic type. Going to grow into a big horse. This son of Hawwaam out of full sister to Maharanee and half sister to Marigold Hotel is a must see.

Lot 196: Eastwood c Buffalo Bill Cody -Miss Magical

By the very promising Buffalo Bill Cody (whose progeny include the Narrow Creek bred smart galloper Buffalo Storm Cody), this colt’s dam is a three time winning Silvano half-sister to

graded stakes winners Magical Wonderland and Magico. The family of high-class Australian group winners September Run, Pittsburgh Flyer and Steel City. Smart, correct type.

Lot 313: Wagon Wheel c Malmoos -The Gardner Girl

Triple Crown winner Malmoos has already made his mark with his first yearlings making up to R1 100 000 this season. The Gardner Girl, whose son Cold Shine showed smart form at two, is a winning own-sister to Gr1 SA Fillies

Classic winner Takingthepeace. This son of exciting freshman sire Malmoos is all class.

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

A rainbow signifies the change of season at Narrow Creek this week | Credit: Narrow Creek Stud

FIRE ATTACK SIBLING TO STAR FOR NDORO

Classy colt Fire Attack is one of the best three-year-olds in training.

Winner of last season’s Gr2 TAB SA Nursery, the son of Fire Away showed his class when he won Saturday’s HKJC World Pool Gr1 Premier’s Champions Challenge. In the process, Fire Attack accounted for such high-class performers as Royal Victory, Purple Pitcher, Atticus Finch and None Other.

Ndoro Stud will be offering a full-brother (Lot 33) to this classy galloper at the National Yearling Sale. A son of boom stallion Fire Away, this colt is out of Bonnie Beers, a half-sister to three black type horses as well as Touche, the dam of reigning Horse Of The Year Dave The King.

Fire Away, whose three-year-olds not only include Fire Attack but the latter’s Gr1 TAB SA Classic conqueror Confederate, is also responsible for a filly (Lot 94) whose stakes placed dam Expedite is a full-sister to the dam of 2024 Gr1 Wilgerbosdrift HF Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut winner Main Defender, winner of Saturday’s Gr2 TAB Hawaii Stakes. This filly’s other high-class relatives include this season’s Gr1 Betway Summer Cup hero Atticus Finch as well as US Gr1 winner Oleksandra.

This draft also includes a Legislate half-sister (Lot 21) to the Gr2 winning Caya Coco, as well as a One World colt (Lot 112) whose third dam is the Fort Wood sired champion, and Gr1 Spring Challenge winner, Kimberley Mine. Caya Coco’s sire Querari, also responsible for this season’s Gr1 Wilgerbosdrift H F Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut Stakes winner

Cosmic Speed, is represented here by a colt (Lot 25) whose dam is a half-sister to the graded stakes winners Capoeira and Folk Dance, with this colt hailing from the same female line as champions Dancewiththedevil and Do It Again.

Ndoro Stud’s National Yearling Sale draft can be found in Block F at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

Ndoro Stud bred Fire Attack who beat Royal Victory in the HKJC World Pool Gr1 Premier’s Champions Challenge on Champions Day | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

SANDOWN’S NATIONAL ATTACK

Graduates of the Sandown Stud have enjoyed good success in recent months. Recent Sandown Stud bred winners include Warrior Royale, Red Mountain, and War Empress.

Graduates of the Sandown Stud have enjoyed good success in recent months. Recent Sandown Stud bred winners include Warrior Royale, Red Mountain, and War Empress.

Top-class three-year-old Immediate Edge, foaled and raised by Sandown, showed his class when winning his first three races, with Immediate Edge’s triumphs including a score in the Listed World Sports Betting Hawwaam Stakes.

James Armitage will be offering another high-class draft at the upcoming National Yearling Sale with Sandown Stud’s National consignment including yearlings sired by the likes of Hawwaam, Malmoos, Querari, Rafeef and What A Winter.

This draft also includes yearlings hailing from some of the best families in the stud book.

James mentioned the following yearlings as likely standouts:

Lot 57: Double Jeopardy c Legislate –Crystal Cavern

He is a big, strong, flashy good walking half brother to the Gr1 placed Rodeo Drive.

Lot

71:

Big City Roller c Rafeef – Dilalah

A very nice colt bred on the proven cross Rafeef over a Var mare. Dilalah’s older progeny have a MR of 89 and 90 respectively.

Lot 97: Expert Witness c Hawwaam

– Fakazi

This is a high quality colt, and he represents a lovely mating.

Lot 199: c What A Winter – Mohallela

He is a late November foal who is very immature but has a great shape.

Lot 243: Rebel Ridge c Querari – Red Ridge

This is a top colt bred on a proven crossQuerari out of a Silvano mare. Great female line and the mare has already produced a stakes winner.

Lot 256: Above The Law c Legislate –Saffron Hill

A lovely big colt from a good family. The Dynasty line has worked with this female line.

Lot 272: c Hawwaam – Shaama

This is an immature colt with scope. He absolutely floats!

Lot 288: Perfect Power c Malmoos –So Flawless

He is a strong, solid first foal very much in the mould of Captain Al.

Lot 327: c Rafeef-Varachino

This is very much a Rafeef in the making. All his siblings have shown exceptional form.

Sandown’s National Sale draft can be viewed from Block F at the TBA Complex in Germiston.

Armitage pride - three generations on! | Credit: Sandown Stud

SUNSTONE’S NATIONAL YEARLING SALE DEBUT

The 2025 National Yearling Sale will be an emotional milestone for Courtney Soal. It will be the first time that the Soal family’s Sunstone Farm and Stud will be selling under their own flag.

The tragic passing in December 2022 of passionate racing man Kevin Soal shocked the South African racing industry. Mr Soal raced many top horses, was the owner of National Heavy Haulage, and also farmed in Mooi River,

Courtney Soal – dedicated to her horses | Credit: JC Photos

from where the family has continued their small breeding operation.

Showing inordinate strength, the 30 year old Courtney Soal told the Sporting Post earlier this week that her late Dad would have wanted them to continue with the horses and the family business, and that, while their lives would never be the same again, they have stood together.

“No family can ever be prepared for what happened in December 2022, but my Mom Debbie, my younger sister Megan, and I resolved to do it in Dad’s memory. He worked hard to build up the business and the farm and this is our way of honouring his very special memory.”

Courtney travels regularly between the beautiful farm in Mooi River and their logistics business on the Highveld.

“We are looking forward to the National Yearling Sale. We are offering two lovely horses, who will arrive this weekend. I will be there next week.”

She talks with enthusiasm about Cyrus The Great (#194), a son of exciting new sire Declarationofpeace, and whose first two dams

are both stakes placed six-time winners.

He hails from the same family as champion Travel North.

“He is a powerhouse pocket rocket. A real steam train. He’s a precocious athletic specimen and we are excited to see him in the ring. The Fighting Fifth (#312) is an elegant and athletic Captain Of All filly out of The Fifth Wave, a three-time winning half-sister to Gr2 Ipi Tombe Challenge winner Gimme A Shot, who has done so well for us,” adds Courtney.

The Soals have raced the horses they bred and then they continue the cycle by then breeding with their fillies.

“Dad bred Gimme A Shot, as an example. She is a Gr2 winner of 5 races. She’s a 5yo already and she may be ready one of these days to move to Sunstone and enter the next phase of her career. Adam and Mike Azzie train our horses and we are very happy to enjoy an excellent relationship with them,” she concluded.

Courtney and her team will be at Block C at the TBA Sales Complex.

THREE ON THE TROT FOR

RIDGEMONT-BRED STAYER

Visiting Highveld-based jockey Calvin Habib enjoyed a profitable afternoon at Fairview on Friday, when he capped a three-timer with a smooth victory on the consistent Bournemouth to win the R175 000 non black-type Glenlair Trophy and give trainer Alan Greeff a welcome birthday present, at his very first ride for the multiple champion conditioner.

With local racing under all kinds of pressure from Mother Nature and quite low-key in April month, the Fairview Friday slot provided plenty of entertainment with Bournemouth moving up powerfully off a decent gallop late to grab the honours to beat Tara Laing’s Frankel gelding Juan Carlos (5-1) by 2,25 lengths in a time of

178,36 secs for the 2800m.

The defending champion Zatara Magic (3-1) did a lot of the donkey-work and faded late to run third a length back.

The winner’s stablemate Joy And Peace (2-1) was well beaten back in fourth.

Calvin Habib has Bournemouth in command to make it three-in-a-row | Credit: Pauline Herman

Just an hour earlier, winning sire Canford Cliffs’ extraordinary versatility was underlined when Richard Fourie booted the five-time Grade 1 winner’s daughter Strata – also bred by Ridgemont – home for the same stable over 1200m.

Showing the benefits of his three-month holiday late last year, Bournemouth made it three on the trot and is unbeaten in 2025.

Raced by Messrs D Cicognini, L Grammer, John Lamb, and Mr & Mrs A C Greeff, who lease him from Ridgemont, the Drakenstein

Stud bred gelding is a son of Canford Cliffs (Tagula) out of the thrice winning British-bred Galileo mare Serruria

A R160 000 National Yearling Sale purchase, Bournemouth has now won 9 races with 7 places from his 25 starts for stakes of R711 301.

Calvin Habib’s earlier double was for the Kelly Mitchley yard.

Eastern Cape racing continues on Friday

11 April when the Listed East Cape Oaks heads the card.

KNOWLEDGE ISPOWER!

With the value of a greater awareness of early pace in races, sectional information takes us to another level of comprehension of what happened and why…

Hollywoodbets Greyville was the setting for Sunday’s local racing | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Sectional timing is, as the name suggests, a record of how fast something happened within a part of a race. In Formula 1 or track and field, this would be lap times within an overall race time; in skiing or cycling time trials, it would be the time a competitor took within a specific segment - or section - of the race.

In all cases, it is a snippet of information about a chunk of a race which can be used to broaden our understanding of how a competitor is performing, or has performed. In and of itself, sectional timing is no more than that.

By collecting this information for lots of similar events, however, we can start to build up a picture of how to do things optimally, which inevitably means how to win more often.

And with the value of a greater awareness of early pace in races, sectional information takes us to another level of comprehension of what happened and why - and, far more importantly, perhaps, what might (or might not) happen today as a consequence of what we understand of the previous days.

So suggested a respected British expert and we continue this week in Time Is Money with

a look at some of the Hollywoodbets Greyville action from Sunday 6 April 2025.

Going: Good to Soft

Penetrometer: 25

Rain: Last 24 hours Nil – Last seven days 36,5mm

Irrigation: Last seven days Nil

False Rail: 4m

Wind: 10-20km/h Northerly head wind

Course Variant: 0,44s slow

Three 1400m Races

Three 1400m races got proceedings underway on Sunday and in the slowly run opener, a maiden plate, we saw a facile victory for the odds on favourite GURKHA.

Backed as if defeat was out of the question at the track, Dean Kannemeyer’s charge sat 8th for most of the journey some five lengths off the pace.

He raced wide coming off the bend, but it soon became clear that that, would not make a difference. He ran on best of all in the straight and recording the fastest 400m to finish time in the race, he won with authority after striking the front 90m from home.

In a time of 84,14 the Live Streaming www. galloptv.co.za Middle Stakes was the fastest of the three 1400m races and here victory went to the Peter Muscutt trained PLAZA ACCORD (lost 1 length at start). Another to find support on course (25/2 into 11/2), the 4yo Danon Platina gelding raced 7th early on some five lengths off the speed. The always handy favourite Golden Destiny (lost 1 length at start) got first run and looked to have done everything right on striking the front 300m out.

Running on best of all under a well-judged ride from Jabu Jacobs though, Plaza Accord put his head in front 70m out and won going away. Interestingly, the fastest 400m to finish time in this race was recorded by the fourth placed horse Tyrconnell.

Easily nine lengths adrift of the leader at the back turning for home, Mike De Kock’s charge didn’t find the clearest of passages in the straight and did well to get within a length and three quarters of the winner at the wire. As in six of his last seven outings, Tyrconnell was reported as making a respiratory noise.

Two 1800m Races

The Form Guide www.gallop.co.za B Stakes won by FIELD MARSHAL was the quicker of the

two 1800m events. The race was run no faster than the D Stakes before entering the straight, and always handy the son of Lancaster Bomber was perfectly positioned to challenge when the front running Afropolitan exited the back door. He was ridden to lead approaching the 300m pole and won comfortably from the running on Trois Trois Quatre (squeezed out start: brushed rail 900m) by just under a length.

Three 1200m Races

Considerably quicker rounding the turn, the www.tabgold.co.za Class 4 event was the fastest of the three 1200m races. Warrior Royalty made the running, but the fast early pace soon began to take its toll in the straight.

The aptly named Super Fast ridden by 4kg claimer Mbuto raced second and kept on strongly despite hanging in over the final 300m. The well-supported favourite MOYA WA LALIGA finished by far the strongest at the business end of the race though, and won going away by two and three quarters after striking the front 180m from home.

The combination of Gareth Van Zyl and S’manga Khumalo were also on the mark in the last, the Hollywoodbets Bright Future Class 3 over 1200m when QUANDARY registered his fifth career victory. In the box seat turning

for home, the Vercingetorix gelding took up the running shortly after passing the 400m marker. He ran on strongly under a determined ride from S’manga and dug deep below the distance to fend off a strong late challenge from the well-supported favourite Rich Folks Hoax (lost 1 length at start) by a short head.

Hollywoodbets Greyville Convention Centre

Class 5 1000m

Cappellino and the aptly named Lightning Jimmy set a brisk pace in the only 1000m event on the card and as a result the time was a good one. The two outsiders of the party were soon found wanting in the straight though, and victory instead went to the 5yo ONE IRISH ROVER. MJ Odendaal’s charge ran on strongly from four lengths off them in sixth, and with the benefit of first run, he got the verdict by three quarters from the running Purple Powahouse.

• Fastest Times:

1200m (3) Moya Wa Laliga 71,58

1400m (3) Plaza Accord 84,14

1800m (2) Field Marshal 110,79

POST-RACE COMMENTS: VAN NIEKERK FINED AND SUSPENDED

The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (NHA) confirms that at an Inquiry held in Johannesburg on Friday, 04 April 2025, Jockey G van Niekerk was charged with a contravention of Rule 72.1.26.

The particulars being that Jockey van Niekerk behaved or conducted himself in such a manner which has or might have the effect of discrediting horse racing or which does or

might bring into disrepute the good name of The National Horseracing Authority, a Racing Operator, any Training Establishment, The Academy, the Stewards or Members

Grant van Niekerk – sanctioned | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

of any Committee of The National Horseracing Authority or any Inquiry Board, Appeal Board, Inquiry Review Board, The Licensing Board, any Objection Board or any Racing Operator or any Official of The National Horseracing Authority or Racing Operator; The charge originated from comments made by Jockey van Niekerk during a post-race interview following the running of Race 2 at Hollywoodbets Durbanville Racecourse on Wednesday, 26 March 2025. Jockey van Niekerk pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of the charge.

Click here to watch the interview.

Penalty Imposed:

After considering the nature of the offence, the rule violation, Jockey van Niekerk’s personal circumstances, and the interests of the racing community, the Inquiry Board ruled as follows:

Suspension:

A 90-day suspension from race riding, of which 60 days are suspended for three years, subject to the following conditions:

1.1 Public Apology: Jockey van Niekerk must issue a public apology to the NHA via the media within ten days of this ruling.

1.2 Jockey van Niekerk must not be convicted of Rule 72.1.26 during the three-year suspension period.

1.3 The nine days suspension already served will be taken into account in determining the dates of the remainder of the 30 days’ suspension. Accordingly, the 30-day suspension could be served from 27 March 2025 to 26 April 2025, subject to his right of appeal.

Fine

2.1 A fine of R100,000, of which R75,000 is suspended for three years, on condition that Jockey van Niekerk is not convicted of another Rule 72.1.26 violation during this period.

Jockey G van Niekerk was given the Right of Appeal against both the finding and the penalty imposed.

• Media release by NHA on Friday 4 April 2025.

WHAT A

ROCKETT!

The 2025 Randox Grand National will be remembered for years to come, not only for the records broken but the emotions and ‘highs’ experienced by the winning connections.

Course officials were upbeat as sunny weather helped swell the crowds by more than 4000 over last year to just short of 60 000 on Saturday, while across the three-day festival more than 130 000 racegoers enjoyed the spectacle in Liverpool.

They all witnessed another Willie Mullins masterclass as the champion trainer became

the first to saddle the first three home and a further two of his six runners finished fifth and seven to boost his seasonal stakes earnings.

Eight-year-old Nick Rockett, unconsidered at 33-1, triumphed by two and a half lengths from his stablemate, and last year’s winner I Am Maximus.

Nick Rockett charges clear under Patrick Mullins | Credit: Aintree Racecourse

Grangeclare West finished third and the first British trained horse Iroko placed fourth.

Meetingofthewaters finished fifth for Mullins, with Minella Cocooner, whose saddled slipped in running finishing seventh of the 34 starters.

Mullins became the first Irish trainer in seventy years to secure the British National Hunt trainers title last season could be on his way to defending his crown after netting a staggering £1,487,994 for three day’s work at the festival.

By doing so he is now only £122,026 behind leading British trainer Dan Skelton with just under three weeks to the season end.

But aside from the money and the title many of which Willie Mullins has achieved over a lifetime

in the sport, this day was extra special. Nick Rockett provided his son Patrick with his breakthrough success in the biggest race of them all and it brought tears of joy to Mullins in the winner’s enclosure.

“I don’t think anything can be better than this,” Willie observed during his second try at an interview with ITV Racing. “It’s huge. Now I know how Ted Walsh felt when Ruby won it for him. To win it as a trainer is wonderful but what a special day for Patrick. I just can’t comprehend it or take it in.”

Amongst all those achievements the result of the great race also provided another moving story. Andrew, the jubilant winning owner seen giving Patrick Mullins a piggyback into the winner’s enclosure while Nick Rockett

Patrick and Willie Mullins – family emotions ran high! | Credit: Aintree Racecourse

cooled down, bought Nick Rockett alongside his wife Sadie, who died from cancer just five days after watching her pride and joy finish fourth in a Fairyhouse bumper in 2022.

“Sadie would have loved today,” said Andrew, briefly looking up to the sky. “Nick Rockett was my wife’s horse. She wanted to have one in training with Willie, who she did her holy communion with. We bumped into him at the Cheltenham sales one year and Sadie suggested we get him to buy one for us.”

Winning jockey Patrick Mullins reflected on his achievement: “It’s everything I dreamed of since I was a kid and it’s all downhill from here,” he said.

“To put my name there is incredibly special. He’s a brilliant horse, not very big, but so brave. I always thought I had a great chance.”

“It was a pity that I couldn’t ride Nick Rockett in, but he’s fine. There was no sign of Willie for the first 20 minutes – I think he was off somewhere crying. It was brilliant to see my mother and girlfriend and emotional to see my dad, because he’s not very emotional. It was magic.”

TEETAN BOUNCES BACK WITH A

THREE-TIMER

After a quiet spell, SAJA graduate and former SA champion apprentice Karis Teetan bounced with a three-timer at Sha Tin on Sunday.

And continuing a prodigious rise among Hong Kong’s training ranks, David Eustace celebrated the first treble of his career in the city on Sunday afternoon following the victories of Regency Happy Star, Good Luck Babe and Sea Sapphire.

“I thought we were coming here with a strong team and probably our first three runners proved that with two winners and a second. This is a nice surprise. They’ve all raced well and consistent, so it’s very pleasing,” Eustace said.

Karis caps his three-timer on Mr Cool | Credit: HKJC

Enjoying a rewarding first campaign in Hong Kong with 23 wins, Eustace, 32, – formerly in partnership with Ciaron Maher in Australia –struck initially with Regency Happy Star in the Class 5 Chung Chi Alumni Handicap under Alexis Badel.

Eustace said: “He’s had a terrific season – just gaining confidence and relaxing very well now in his races. Obviously, the distance and the track are perfect for him and he’s been ridden beautifully by Alexis. It’s going to start to get a bit tougher, but hopefully we can have one

more go in Class 5. I think we probably should for one more run.”

Regency Happy Star has won three of his last five starts. Good Luck Babe outlasted rivals in the Class 4 United Alumni Handicap under Karis Teetan, while Sea Sapphire showed plenty of fight to capture the Class 4 CUHK Alumni Cup Handicap with Ben Thompson over debut winner Akashvani.

Eustace’s previous best Hong Kong hauls were two doubles, while Teetan’s own treble began

David Eustace achieved a happy milestone at Sha Tin on Sunday | Credit: HKJC

aboard Top Throne, who made his second start a winning one for trainer David Hayes in the second section of the Class 4 New Asia Alumni Handicap.

“He ran great in his first run. He actually did many things wrong but to still run where he ran was a great effort and we thought he would always improve from that, which he did,” Teetan said.

Teetan closed his three as youngster Mr Cool surged to a first victory at his second start in

the Class 4 Morningside Alumni Handicap for trainer Frankie Lor. The Maurice gelding races for the same owner as former Group 1-star Mr Stunning.

“Things have been a bit slow, but I just kept my head down and kept punching along. I thought I had a few decent rides on Sunday and some of the draws went my way, too.

“It’s turned out to be a great day. I said to the owner ‘this is one of my favourite set of silks’ in Hong Kong because of Mr Stunning. On debut

Sky Jewellery (Hugh Bowman) wins the night cap! | Credit: HKJC

at Happy Valley, he just didn’t know where he was, but he ran a great race and we knew he would improve a lot.

“You could see today, not many horses won from where he was, but the speed was on and I was happy where I was. When I asked him, he really responded well and I just want to say well done to the connections and well done to all the trainers sticking with me and giving me support – I really appreciate it,” Teetan said.

One of Hong Kong racing’s most dependable performers, Voyage Samurai added a fifth win at his 13th start to his burgeoning record this afternoon in the Class 2 Faculty Of Education Alumni Handicap under Derek Leung for Lor.

Pressing forward atop the Dissident gelding, Leung made all for victory in the HK$3,12 million contest with Voyage Samurai, who stopped the clock at 1m 34.78s ahead of Helene Feeling and Winning Dragon, respectively.

Leung said: “Finally, I got another win on him!

He’s been very honest this season and even before. He was just beaten last time by a better horse, this time the field didn’t seem as strong. He controlled the pace and he didn’t mind the

fast tempo – I’m happy.”

Sky Jewellery – touted as a 2026 Four-YearOld Classic Series prospect – continued his sparkling ascendance with a dominant victory in the Class 3 Wu Yee Sun And Lee Woo Sing Alumni Handicap under Hugh Bowman for trainer John Size.

Bowman said: “He’s a nice horse. He’s still learning his trade though, but he was aided by a really solidly run mile. When he got in amongst horses, that was the first time he’s had that, he was a bit new to it, but he had time to get himself together and understand what was going on.

“I had a clear passage when I needed to move, and I had time to get him organised before I let him down and the response was there for everyone to see.”

Geneva scooped a third win this season from six runs. David Hall’s Capitalist gelding was the beneficiary of a superb Brenton Avdulla drive in the Class 3 Shaw Alumni Handicap – his first success in the grade at his 10th start.

Avdulla savoured a double when Brilliant Express – also trained by Size – netted his

third win in the Class 3 S.H. Ho And CW Chu Alumni Handicap. Avdulla now has 36 triumphs this season and holds fourth place in the Hong Kong jockeys’ standings.

Jerry Chau guided Embellish gelding Chateau Le Peche to a first win by a short head for trainer Jimmy Ting in the Class 5 Graduate School Alumni Handicap.

ANOTHER WASHOUT!

Today’s Turffontein programme, which was postponed from Tuesday, becomes the ninth Highveld racemeeting to be wholly or partially lost since races 3 to 9 were abandoned at the 21 December 2024 fixture.

4Racing advised earlier that, while they initially planned to proceed with gallops at Turffontein at around 07h30 today, they encountered surface water on the track after completing a full track inspection, which made it unsuitable and unsafe for galloping.

Given these conditions, and the poor weather forecast for today, the decision has been made to abandon the Turffontein meeting.

The next local fixture is scheduled at Fairview on Friday 11 April.

An incredible Easter Yearling Sale concluded on Monday in remarkable fashion, defying bloodstock pessimism and global financial trends to finish with notable upturn in almost all key fiscal metrics.

On a memorable two days at Riverside:

A total of 25 horses sold for A$1m or more – to 17 different entities - up from 18 seven-figure lots at last year’s Easter Sale and just three behind the all-time record of 28 The clearance has defied the 2025 Southern Hemisphere sales season trend, currently sitting at 86% and likely to climb higher over the next 48 hours.

The sale’s gross sits at A$150,035,000, almost identical to this time last year despite 58 less horses being offered in 2025 and no A$10m Winx filly being sold, while the average (A$451,913) and median (A$360,000) are up 5% and 20% respectively

There were increases in lots sold for A$300,000 or more (208, compared to 191 in 2024), A$400,000+ (155 compared to 128) and A$500,000 or more (108 compared to 96).

Arrowfield ended as leading vendor, selling 39 of their 42 horses for a gross of A$22,060,000, ahead of Coolmore and Widden

Coolmore was leading buyer, spending A$10,400,000 on seven lots, while buyers came from China, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, South Africa, UK, USA and all around Australia

The Day 2 top lot was a Zoustar x The Actuary filly of Widden, which sold to American John Stewart’s Resolute Racing for A$2.6m.

“It’s an extraordinary result,’’ Widden’s Antony Thompson said.

“For John, in his model of trying to pick the best bloodstock in the world, to have him buy this filly off us is a real thrill and something we’re really proud of.

“As long as I’ve been in the game, Widden and Inglis have been around a long time together and Easter has always been it. It is an elite sale and you do need to turn up with some serious horses because the buyers here really know what they want.

“There’s all the best judges here and they’re working very hard. To have a filly like that shine at Easter and stand out in the green book is something that is pretty cool. It’s a hard thing to do and it’s not wasted on us.’’

Today’s second-top lot was from the family of Winx, an I Am Invincible x Covent Garden colt offered by Segenhoe on behalf of the colt’s breeder John Camilleri.

He sold to Coolmore for A$1.8m.

“From the day he was born he was a standout,’’ Segenhoe’s Peter O’Brien said.

“Obviously he’s from Winx’s family but what sold him was his physique. Every big colt buyer was on him – James Harron was under bidder, Henry Field came 3rd, Gai [Waterhouse] was on him and obviously Coolmore bought him. We’re absolutely delighted.’’

When asked how he would describe Easter 2025, O’Brien said: “When you get up in the morning and you read what’s happening in the world markets, it puts the fear of God into you but the horse industry is just incredibly resolute and we’re absolutely delighted with this week.

Credit to Inglis, it’s been phenomenal.’’

Coolmore’s Tom Magnier added: “We’ve been very impressed by the Home Affairs horses this week and he’s by I Am Invincible so we’re looking for our next Home Affairs and this guy might be it.

“He’s real quality, I thought the best I Am Invincible on the grounds. Peter O’Brien does a great job at Segenhoe with these horses, he and John Camilleri are very astute operators.

“We’re delighted. To be fair to Inglis, there were some amazing horses on the complex this week and we’ve got the horses that we wanted. Inglis did a fantastic job all week, now we move onto the mare’s sales.’’

Inglis Bloodstock CEO Sebastian Hutch described the past two days as “amazing’’.

“Our team was very much determined to reward our vendors and reinforce the standing of this sale as definitively the best in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the best in the world, which is something I feel has been achieved emphatically,’’ Hutch said.

“In the context of the market this year, prior to this week the Inglis Premier Sale had been the only sale in the Southern Hemisphere to experience financial increases in 2025 and to now have the Inglis Easter Sale post such incredible results, it’s hugely satisfying.

“There has been no disguising that it has been a challenging year in terms of the bloodstock market, but the Inglis team has worked tirelessly in an effort to facilitate the best markets that we possibly could across each of our sales, so I feel the results over the last two days in particular are very much a case of ‘reward for effort’.

“As ever, we are hugely grateful for the support of the sale by our vendors and buyers, particularly the former and I feel it is important to recognise the incredible amount of time, money and effort that is invested by so many people to get to the point where horses are bred that allow for results like these to be achieved.

“To have a clearance rate of 86% and rising, an average of more than A$450,000 and a gross that will effectively match last year – despite 58 less horses being offered, as well as there being no A$10m Winx filly this year – is nothing short of phenomenal.’’

Buyers’ attention now switches to Inglis Digital, with the April (Early) Sale now open for bidding.

A catalogue of 396 entries has been finalised for the sale.

To view the catalogue or participate in the auction CLICK HERE.

2025 EASTER YEARLING SALE STATISTICS (2024 in brackets)

• Offered: 387 (445)

• Sold: 332 (356)

• Clearance: 86% (79%)

• Average: A$451,913 (A$429,786)

• Median: A$360,000 (A$300,000)

• Gross: A$150,035,000 (A$150,855,000)

SEAN PATERSON

A TRUE HORSEMAN WILL BE MISSED

Just over a month after his appeal in the Sporting Post for assistance with medical expenses, we are sad to report that Sean Paterson passed away on 26 March following complications after a second operation.

A dyed-in-the-wool racing man from a well known family, the 55 year old had approached the Sporting Post in February with a request to publish an appeal for assistance with medical expenses as he desperately tries to save his injured foot in order to allow him to continue to work with horses.

Horseracing was in the blood of the 55 year old Sean Paterson – his Mom was a successful trainer and his Dad a well-known jockey, trainer and stipe in his time.

Sean joined the South African Jockey Academy on 3 January 1985. He travelled the world in racing In 2023 he was kicked on the heel whilst work riding at Randjesfontein, causing his heel bone to splinter.

Following the removal of the bone shards the pressure wound turned into a full blown internal fungal infection.

Sean Paterson is survived by his wife Louisa, and his horses, who were his children.

The Acreage (formerly Bull Ring) at Randjesfontein is the venue for Sean’s ‘Celebration of Life’, which will be held on Friday 2 May from 11h00 to 14h00.

The Sporting Post extends deepest sympathies and condolences to Sean’s family and friends at this very sad time.

Ed- Anybody wishing to contact the family directly can email Alyson Wynne on email: alyson_wynne@hotmail.com

37 YEARS ON –WE REMEMBER…

The South African horseracing industry will again honour the memory at Turffontein on Saturday of those who perished in the Hennenman air disaster. It is 37 years since the worst tragedy to hit South African horseracing devastated the lives of so many people involved.

Tuesday 12 April 1988 was a dark day for South African horseracing.

A United Airways charter flight crashed near the Free State town of Hennenman on its return from a racemeeting in Bloemfontein.

The meeting was due to have been held the previous week, with the racing party booked to travel on a scheduled South African Airways flight.

But when rain forced the postponement of the meeting, SAA couldn’t accommodate a

booking change and a plane was specially chartered to transport jockeys and officials to Bloemfontein and back again.

Later, the logbook of the aged United Airways Dakota revealed that it had not been properly serviced and maintained. Fuel leaked and a fire started in the starboard engine, later spreading to the fuselage. The subsequent inquiry failed to pin blame for the disaster on anyone, with United Airways having gone into liquidation in the interim.

Many of the riders were under the age of 22 and the tragedy resulted in an enormous pool of talent lost to the industry overnight.

Twenty-four people died in the tragedy.

Jockeys: Keith Basel, Lawrence Riley, Johannes ‘Rooies’ Fourie, Warren Baillie, Bennie de Wet, Greg Holme, Douglas Roper, Danny Lombard, John McMurtry, Mark Nel, Michael Coetzee, Simon Rahilly and Gordon Sterley

Officials: Graham Kent, Dave Bullock, Henry Havergall, Ginger Masterton and Johannes van der Linden

Owners: Jacobus Viljoen and Neville Blignaut Trainer: Hennie van Wyk

Air Crew: Jacob Kalt, Harold Whitehead and Jacqueline Henderson.

Gone, but not forgotten.

The Hennenman Memorial at Turffontein Racecourse | Credit: Ashleigh Hughes

Mr

J O CK E YS results up to: 2025-04-08

7,696,131 6,242,188 6,793,750 4,957,813 19,990,200 10,374,881 9,781,406 8,614,625 8,019,850

16,421,600 19,703,906 17,562,344 7,248,063 5,733,781 23,316,188 25,107,531 24,477,856 12,453,863 9,793,163

22,705,231 19,344,831 11,714,913 9,533,494 BREEDERS

22,633,831 16,927,450 14,754,913 12,795,200 12,363,219 S I RE S T R A I NER S