SP Sprint - 3 January 2024

Wednesday 03 January 2024

v

A ROYAL REPEAT? 03 JANUARY 2024 | 1

v

HERE’S TO A WINNING 2024!

Sean Veale and Athandiwe Mgudlwa were captured in a buoyant mood by Candiese Lenferna at Hollywoodbets Greyville recently

2 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

CONTENTS

Issue: 01/2024

On the cover

Bernard Fayd’herbe holds the prestigious King’s Plate and a bottle of champagne after Al Muthana’s narrow victory in the 2023 L’Ormarins King’s Plate – can they do it again on Saturday?

Image by Chase Liebenberg.

LOVE IS BLUE!

06

Will We See It Again?

South Africa’s premier weight-for-age mile

16

Power Of The Paddock Cartier gems on show

28

Ladies Take The Challenge The Okapi International

44

Looking At 2023 The year of stars

85

West Coast Cowboy Meet a jock who’s living the life

03 JANUARY 2024 | 3

v

4 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 5

v

6 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

KZN STAR LOOKS SET FOR A CROWNING MOMENT See It Again and Piere Strydom – tough to beat on Saturday | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

03 JANUARY 2024 | 7

v

Ricky Maingard and Bernard Fayd’herbe return to defend their L’Ormarins King’s Plate title at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday as the Australianbred 6yo Al Muthana bids to repeat his shock victory of a year ago.

A field of 13 was declared on Thursday 28 December for the 163rd renewal of South Africa’s premier weight-for-age mile, and boasts five runners from the powerful Justin Snaith yard, including recent Hollywoodbets Gr1 Cape Guineas winner, Snow Pilot, and another Cape Guineas winner in Double Superlative.

While Al Muthana has a draw to beat and has not quite repeated his herculean effort to clinch the L’Ormarins King’s Plate by a nose last year, the rematch between 2023 runner-up Charles Dickens and recent WSB Gr2 Green Point Stakes winner See It Again looks the key to finding the 2024 winner.

See It Again comprehensively walloped the Cape star in the Green Point, although there were suggestions that the Bass galloper would be a fitter opponent come Saturday, and that he was reported to be hanging by jockey Aldo Domeyer.

3yo’s have only won the premier mile ten times in a long history, and despite decent form, sensational Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas winner Snow Pilot and third-placed stablemate Hluhluwe look to have a mountain to climb.

Follow all the big race news on www.sportingpost.co.za

HAVE YOU BOOKED YOUR SPOT? L’Ormarins requests the pleasure of your company at the 163rd running of the King’s Plate. As one of Cape Town’s most celebrated horse racing days, the King’s Plate is a totally blue and white affair where guests can enjoy some of the country’s best racing, wine, food, antique car displays and renowned after party

in the peak of Cape Town’s summer. Be sure to dress in your elegant blue and white, study your horses and join us for a glass of Methode Cap Classique at the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2024.

Please click here for more.

Seen it? Michael Roberts, Piere Strydom and WSB ‘s Hilton Hasson after the Green Point Stakes victory Credit: Chase Liebenberg

8 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 9

WHO WILL REIGN v

SUPREME? Arthur and Rina Webber are seen with Marsh Shirtliff and Gaynor Rupert after one of Pocket Power’s four royal victories | Credit: Supplied

10 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 11

v

Hollywoodbets Kenilworth will host the 163rd running of South Africa’s oldest racing event, the Gr1 L’Omarins King’s Plate on Saturday and many questions will be answered, including whether Justin Snaith’s Snow Pilot can become only the 11th 3yo winner in the history of the event.

The race was first run in honour of Queen Victoria after she gifted a silver plate and 500 sovereigns to the South African Turf Club.

The inaugural contest was staged as a heats event in April 1861, with the honours going to Cape Town owner Mr Chiappini’s horse, Dispatch.

The Queen’s Plate has kept its royal ties meticulously. After the death of Queen Victoria, it was run as the King’s Plate during the reigns of Edward VII and George VI and then reverted to being named the Queen’s Plate when Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in 1952.

The 162nd running of the L’Ormarins King’s Plate in 2023 heralded a new era in the history of arguably the country’s premier mile race.

To many racegoers, this iconic race had always been known as the Queen’s Plate, for the simple reason that we have known no British monarch other than the late Queen Elizabeth II, a great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria.

Unsurprisingly, the name change to the King’s Plate was frowned upon by purists, yet it is worth noting that following Queen Victoria’s death and during the reigns of Edward VII and George VI, the race was run as the King’s Plate.

It only reverted to its original name in 1953 after the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the throne.

The laurels have been claimed by some of the greatest horses ever to grace South African soil, including the mighty Sea Cottage, William Penn, In Full Flight, Yataghan, Sledgehammer, Politician, Wolf Power, galloping goldmine Empress Club, international superstar London News, champion sire Jet Master, Winter Solstice and Variety Club. The undisputed King of the Queen’s Plate, with 4 successive trophies, is the unforgettable Pocket Power, ahead of more recent hero Legal Eagle, who won three on the trot.

The 2023 winner Al Muthana returns on Saturday to match Jet Dark’s double.

It’s a day of fun! | Credit: Supplied

12 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

Blue and white looks right! | Credit: Supplied

03 JANUARY 2024 | 13

v

14 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 15

BOMBS AWAY! v

16 | 03 JANUARY 2024

Should Beach Bomb prove up to the task on Saturday, she will add yet another chapter to this important race’s rich history as only the second Paddock winner produced by a former winner… v

The Drakenstein and Bass Team lead Beach Bomb in after her WSB Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas victory | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

03 JANUARY 2024 | 17

v

Beach Beauty – dam of Beach Bomb – wins the 2014 Cape Fillies Guineas | Credit: Equine Edge

Contested at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth over 1800m, the Cartier Gr1 Cape Paddock Stakes for fillies and mares is the one race which every breeder wants to win; it not only establishes the excellence of the winner’s female line, but it also lays the foundation for the future.

History shows that its honour roll of winners is studded with some pretty influential mares, many of whom have had a profound impact on the Stud Book.

Those that resonate include Majorca, Renounce, Party Time, Tecla Bluff, Petrava, Kiss Of Peace and Olympic Duel to mention but a few.

This year’s renewal, which will again be sponsored by famed jewellers Cartier, is made up of a field of seven runners, one of the 18 | 03 JANUARY 2024

smallest in years. Yet what it lacks in numbers, it definitely makes up for in sheer quality.

The main protagonists are likely to be favourite Princess Calla and three-year-old Beach Bomb.

Remarkably, both have strong connections to the Paddock Stakes.

Reigning Horse of the Year Princess Calla hails from a family which already boasts two previous winners.

v

Princess Calla’s fourth dam Precious Platinum is a half-sister to champion and 1985 winner Petrava, who raced with such distinction for Laurie and Jean Jaffee. Trained by David Payne, this New Zealand-bred was voted the country’s champion three-year-old filly following wins in the Gr1 SA Fillies Guineas, Gr1 Stuttafords Fillies Guineas and of course the Paddock Stakes.

Allan Robertson and Golden Slipper at two, who added to that the Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas and Gr1 Garden Province Stakes at three.

The siblings are out of Platinum Princess, whose half-brother Cup Of Grace won the Gr3 Thaba’Nchu Sun Casino Stakes and finished third in the Gr1 Summer Cup, whilst halfsister Kitco produced the Gr1 Golden Horse Medallion runner-up Pray For Rain.

Petrava also reserved her place in racing lore as the dam of champion sire Jallad, whilst her Recent Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas winner Beach New Zealand-bred daughter Hoeberg won the Bomb has an even more tangible link to the Paddock Stakes eleven years race as her dam is none other after her dam. Named after the than champion Beach Beauty, Jaffee-owned residence in St who has the distinction of being James, she proved to be very one of just seven dual Paddock much her mother’s daughter.

Stakes winners.

In fact, one could argue that she was superior to her dam Runner-up as a four-year-old To date, she boasts on the track. when beaten by a lack of pace, the daughter of Dynasty a 100% strike Successful in the Gr3 Strelitzia set the record straight at five rate with her first at two, she proved nigh when she crossed the line invincible at three, winning almost four lengths clear of her five foals, four of the Gr2 Golden Slipper, the field. And while many of her which are stakes Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas, contemporaries were already the Paddock Stakes, Gr1 SA nursing their first or even second performers.

Fillies Guineas and the Gr1 foal, Beach Beauty showed she Woolavington Stakes. hadn’t lost a step at age six to become the first back-to-back winner since It came as no surprise that she emulated her Olympic Duel twenty-two years before her. dam as the country’s champion three-yearold filly of 2001. Subsequently campaigned To say that Beach Beauty has proven her mettle overseas, she won Singapore’s Gr3 as a star broodmare for Drakenstein Stud Chairman’s Trophy and placed third in Dubai’s would be an understatement.

Golden Shaheen.

To date, she boasts a 100% strike rate with her At stud, Hoeberg produced just one foal, an first five foals, four which are stakes performers.

American-bred filly who ran three times and In addition to Beach Bomb she has produced eventually ended up in Saudi Arabia, where she Gr2 World Sports Betting Guineas winner Wild made little impact as a broodmare.

Coast, Gr2 Western Cape Fillies Championship victress Amanzimtoti and the multiple Gr3Luckily, Princess Calla has continued the placed stayer Rex Union. excellence of this fine female line in recent years.

Should Beach Bomb prove up to the task on Saturday, she will add yet another chapter to Her dam Princess Royal won the Gr2 Sceptre this important race’s rich history as only the Stakes and is a half-sister to champion juvenile second Paddock winner produced by a former filly Princess Victoria, a dual Gr1 winner of the winner.

03 JANUARY 2024 | 19

v

20 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 21

BEST BRETT OF THE DAY! v

Trainer Brett Crawford and his son James celebrate after Winchester Mansion’s big win in the Hollywoodbets Durban July last year | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

22 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

Leading Grade 1 winning trainer Brett Crawford starts the new year on a winning note with the news that he has joined the Hollywoodbets stable and is now sponsored by South Africa’s leading international sportsbook operator.

Hollywoodbets sponsor a variety of trainers countrywide, and the formal signing of a sponsorship partnership agreement with the powerful racing stable is a further building block in the symbiotic relationship that already exists between the popular purple brand and two leading industry players in Brett Crawford Racing and the Kieswetter family owned international breeding powerhouse, Ridgemont.

Talking to the Sporting Post on Sunday, Brett Crawford said that it was an honour and a privilege for his team to take up the offer of partnering with a winning name in what is a natural step in the evolution of an association that had its roots in the Hollywood SyndicateRidgemont partnership that started some two years.

“We have been fortunate to see our support by the Hollywood Syndicate grow exponentially through their partnership with our existing top owners Ridgemont, and the momentous

achievement last season of a Cape summer Gr 1 double courtesy of the brilliant Ridgemontbred and Hollywood Syndicate-raced Dynasty filly Make It Snappy remains one of my personal career highlights.”

The 52 year old conditioner, the reigning Hollywoodbets Durban July champion trainer, added that the contribution and supporting pillars provided to South African horseracing by the Hollywood brand over the past few years was unquestionably a lifechanger for the industry, and that he would carry the yellow and purple flag with pride into what is set to be an exciting 2024.

“We have all seen how the Hollywood team do things – simply properly and professionally. It’s the way I would like to believe I try and run my own business,” added Crawford.

Hollywoodbets Brand & Communications Manager Devin Heffer reciprocated Brett

Winchester Mansion (Kabelo Matsunyane) gets the better of See It Again (Piere Strydom) to win the Hollywoodbets Durban July in 2023 | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

03 JANUARY 2024 | 23

v

Flashback to 2015 – Futura (Bernard Fayd’herbe) wins the L’Ormarins King’s Plate for Brett Crawford | Credit: Supplied

Crawford’s thoughts on the evolution of the broader partnership between the top stable, and the union between the Hollywood Syndicate and Ridgemont.

“The synergy and common goals for the good of racing, that already exist in what has been a thoroughly enjoyable and winning association for our team, now get taken to the next level with Hollywoodbets’ sponsorship of Brett Crawford Racing. We look forward to many more memorable racing moments!” added Devin Heffer.

With 35 career Grade 1 winners, including victories in the Durban July, Met, and the Queen’s Plate to his name since starting his career at the turn of the century, Brett Crawford ranks amongst South Africa’s pre-eminent trainers of the 21st century.

The Brett Crawford Racing headquarters are at Futura Park in Philippi, where he has a string of 120.

24 | 03 JANUARY 2024

He also established a satellite base at Randjesfontein under the management of his 24 year old son James, some three seasons ago. The Brett Crawford Racing head count is currently 40 on the Highveld.

“While the renaissance of Cape Racing has been nothing short of remarkable, there was a time when our racing was in serious trouble and reportedly days away from business rescue. We have a loyal staff nucleus and many families that rely on us, and it was at that time that we had to reconsider our future business prospects and we looked North.”

Brett’s son James was fortunate to spend some time under the mentorship of the master Mike de Kock as part of his apprenticeship to run the new base.

“I learnt my trade from some great trainers, and James is very fortunate to have learnt from the best. A good foundation, like a good start, is vital and I knew he could only go forward.

v

Fortuitously, the move to open a satellite yard has thus proven a winner on all fronts, with James showing his dedication and ability, and the yard proving a highly successful feeder base into our successful KZN Champion season raids – Winchester Mansion’s sensational victory in the 2023 Hollywoodbets Gr1 Durban July being the most notable!”

While his first runners under the Hollywoodbets banner will be at Turffontein on Thursday, looking ahead to this coming Saturday at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, where the L’Ormarins King’s Plate headlines a bumper dual Gr1 programme, Brett observes that it takes a ‘very special horse’ to win what he considers to be South Africa’s premier weightfor-age mile.

And he should know! In seven vintage renewals of the royal mile between 2013 and 2019, he

won it once, ran second three times, third once, fourth once, and fifth once.

“I won this great race with the top-class Futura in 2015, and then that very special horse Jackson, also a son of Dynasty, ran second in consecutive years. He was beaten in 2013 by Variety Club and the next year by Capetown Noir. And then our big boy Captain America – he ran fourth, second and third consecutively in the ‘Legal Eagle years’ of 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Undercover Agent ran fifth in 2019.”

On Saturday, Brett Crawford saddles the 2023 WSB Gr1 SA Classic winner Anfields Rocket for the Hollywood Syndicate in the magic mile.

He says that the son of Coup de Grace has been with him just over a month since running unplaced in the Betway Summer Cup, and that he is still getting to know him.

The thrilled Make It Snappy connections lead their champion in after the 2023 Cartier Gr1 Paddock Stakes Credit: Chase Liebenberg

03 JANUARY 2024 | 25

v

“He is a Gr1 winner and has done nothing wrong in his work. But we are under no false illusions – he has quite a bit to do to challenge the top contenders. It’s something of a baptism of fire return to the Cape for the handsome chestnut!” he suggested.

Happy Chance runs in the Hollywood Syndicate silks in the Cartier Gr1 Paddock Stakes a half hour earlier.

“I am very pleased with her. She’s enjoyed an excellent prep into this race, and while SA Horse Of The Year Princess Calla is clearly the one to beat, I believe that Happy Chance is the best of the rest. We have a ticket – and a very smart 4yo filly carrying it for us,” he added.

Brett’s other runners on the day include: Race 2 – The Trippi Stakes – Mauritius Kestrel “He is my most advanced 2yo at this stage. If not too green, I would be expecting a decent effort. This race will bring him on for the feature on Met day.”

26 | 03 JANUARY 2024

Race 3 – Winchester Sprint Cup – Mufasa “His recent form is slightly disappointing.

But he is back over his best trip here and he warrants respect!”

Race 5 – Anthonij Rupert Wine Gr2 Premier Trophy – At My Command “We debated running him here or in the King’s Plate. I just felt that the handicappers got him wrong in the Green Point, where clearly See It Again and Charles Dickens were not at best, yet they gave At My Command a 124. He is fit and well, and he showed up well when given a chance last time.”

Race 8 – Class 3 - Zil Moris & Double Olympic “Zil Moris is being dropped in trip after possibly finding the mile a touch far last time. He is in good shape and on his earlier form over the shorter trip, must come into the reckoning.

Double Olympic shed his maiden over the course and distance and returns after a ten week break. His work has been good and he is worth including.”

The first race at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday is off at 12h25.

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 27

DOZEN DAMSELS SET FOR OKAPI v

A pointer? Savanna Valjalo is held by Vikki Lerena, Wilmien Fourie, Emma Oelz, Kayleigh Oakes and Chine van Niekerk | Credit: Cape Racing

28 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 29

v

A field of 12 will line up on Saturday at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday for the second R200 000 Okapi Ladies International. The all-female line-up of amateur riders in the opening event of the prestigious raceday includes a host of talents from a wide range of equestrian disciplines, encompassing showjumping, equitation and track racing.

The race, featuring 12 amateur lady riders, will open the card on Saturday on the occasion of the 163rd renewal of the L’Ormarins King’s Plate.

The expression ‘don’t try this at home’ exists for a reason. What looks easy from a distance, or from the comfort of the couch in front of the TV, is usually something beyond the capabilities of Joe Average.

Last year the inaugural Okapi Ladies Race was won by Zimbabwean O’Meara Rusike aboard the Justin Snaith-trained Pacific Green, and fittingly racing in the colours of Gaynor Rupert’s Drakenstein Stud. It was Mrs Rupert that launched the concept based on the Magnolia Cup.

One example is driving a Formula One car.

It has been said that you need the cognitive capabilities of a chess grandmaster, the strength, stamina and reactions of a fighter pilot and the endurance of a marathon runner, writes Gary Lemke.

OK, so we will go to the other end of the athletes’ scale. Darts.

The race is based on the Magnolia Cup, a ladies race for amateurs to raise funds for charity, which is also the opening race at Glorious Goodwood in England.

There are again 12 riders who will line up in the R200 000 Okapi Ladies International, which will see a dozen maidens line up at the 1200m start.

The World Darts Championships are ongoing and we’re reaching the quarter-final stage.

Five ladies – Danielle Rivalland, Vicky Lerena, Helen Richardson, Kim Meaker and Kelsey Mayhew-Munger – will be returning for their second appearance, while seven will be competing for the first time.

“I can do that,” we hear you say, and we agree.

Except, we can’t. Those “180’s” don’t just happen without hundreds of hours of practice and mental strength.

And the hazards of inexperience when it comes to race riding, was seen at the gallops when one rider was twice dumped after the finishing post by her mount.

Somewhere in between driving a F1 car and being a darts world champion is riding a thoroughbred racehorse.

The big adjustments between those who come from an equestrian background to race riding was summed up by the 36-year-old Chine van Niekerk. She is a daily work rider with Johan Janse van Vuuren, where she also performs admin duties, and she will be aboard the Candice Bass-Robinson trained Love Shack in the Okapi International.

It was after the 2011 Met where a daredevil radio presenter visited Bass Racing and asked to get aboard that year’s winner River Jetez, to feel what it’s like sitting on a Grade One winner. Within moments she threw him off and a lesson was learnt.

Don’t try this at home.

Further evidence arrived at the Okapi Ladies International gallops at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth recently.

30 | 03 JANUARY 2024

“When it comes to dressage you have soft hands and you do use a bit more leg. Here, in race riding, you’re sitting with short stirrup irons and you’re working different muscles. It’s quite hard to adjust to in the beginning. In dressage you use a lot more of your core, and in race riding you use most of your top half, because

v

you use your weight to bring the horse back.

In dressage it’s like you’re squeezing a sponge out with your hands, as this is how light the contact is in dressage.

“I’ve done a lot of work at James Maree’s Thoroughbred Racing Development Centre and have my work riders’ licence so am looking forward to 2024.”

trained The US Of A, having ridden Vivacious Spirit in last year’s event. “The surroundings here (Kenilworth) have really changed. The track though feels the same and it’s in great condition.”

The best horse that she has ridden was the Sean Tarry-trained filly Wendywood. And what a story she had!

Van Niekerk has been riding horses for 29 years and she started out with racehorses work riding with trainer Corrie Lensley, at the Vaal.

Wendywood won her maiden in May 2008 and went straight into the Woolavington two weeks later, with a merit rating of 73.

The most experienced rider is Vicky Lerena, the wife of leading jockey Gavin.

She won that feature and as a three-year-old filly she raced in the July in only her third start.

There she finished eighth, beaten only 3.40 lengths by the dead-heaters Pocket Power and Dancer’s Daughter.

“I’ve won about 27 races and you never forget your first. Mine was on Enchantress who won a sprint race on Gold Cup day for trainer Mike Bass. It was the highlight of my riding career.”

Lerena will be aboard the Patrick Kruyer-

“She got colic after that and died. She would have been really special,” Lerena says.

Practice makes perfect – the ladies go through their paces at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth recently Credit: Cape Racing

03 JANUARY 2024 | 31

v

32 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 33

v

DEFYING THE LAW OF GRAVITY? Savanna Valjalo partners Gravity for Justin Snaith in Saturday’s opener | Credit: Cape Racing

34 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

First-time race rider Savanna Valjalo chatted to Gary Lemke recently ahead of Saturday’s R200 000 Okapi Ladies International at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. She rides Gravity for Justin Snaith in the twelve horse field.

To suggest that Savanna Valjalo has a competitive streak would be putting it mildly.

Then again, as she says, “both my parents are also very competitive”. As is her brother.

Savanna and Brandon are twins, born 20 seconds apart on 11 July 1998 in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Who arrived first? “I did,” says Brandon, who became the first skateboarder to represent South Africa at an Olympics when he competed at the Tokyo 2020 Games. “I should have had a riding whip in my hand, I would have beaten you,” jokes Savanna. “I would have

just ramped over you to be first,” her brother laughs.

I first met Brandon while on Olympic duty with TeamSA in Tokyo. He had pitched for the interview looking battered, but upbeat.

Wearing a cast covering his right wrist and forearm, he had competed in the men’s street event the day before. “Injuries are part and parcel of what we do. Other people damage their eyes by looking at a screen too much.

We damage our bodies. “I’ve broken this wrist twice.” He then turned around and lifted his shirt. “Roasties,” he said. “You get used to it.

You climb back on and go again.”

That energy and never-say-die spirit extends to his twin sister who will ride the fancied Gravity in the R200 000 Okapi Ladies International, a race modelled on the Glorious

03 JANUARY 2024 | 35

v

Goodwood Magnolia Cup, and which will kick start the L’Ormarins King’s Plate meeting.

We are standing in the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth parade ring and looking for a bit of shade on a sweltering late December morning.

Savanna is one of seven riders in the field of 12 who weren’t in last year’s inaugural Ladies International and she had typically been hard at work making the adjustments.

“Then I heard about the Okapi Ladies International from Jonathan Snaith and I leapt at the opportunity. Jonathan then put me in contact with riding master Craog du Plooy.

So, the first time I rode a racehorse was only a couple of months ago, and it was something completely new to me. But, I’ve watched a lot of racing from the sidelines and always wondered what it would feel like to actually ride a racehorse.”

The 25-year-old also has a daredevil streak An accomplished show to her, like her twin, jumper from a young who is wearing a age, she is getting Red Bull cap of his ready for her first sponsors. “Do you race. And the Querari know that Red Bull It’s also my older brother’s gelding Gravity, doesn’t sponsor horse 31st birthday on 5 January, so running in the colours racing, or swimming?” of Cape Racing Brandon says, matterhopefully I’ll be able to give chairman Greg Bortz, of-factually. Actually, I him a birthday gift.

Gina Goldsmith, who didn’t know. Like his is heavily instrumental sister, he is confident, in making the Okapi which is something International happen, and Leon Ellman, will be needed to succeed at the highest levels.”

Valjalo’s mount. No pressure then.

As for the race itself, Savannah admits that her We were also talking the day before the final main mission “is just to have fun. To make sure field and draws were announced for the 1200m I have a smile on my face, ride the horse nicely sprint down the straight. “In an ideal world, and give him the best chance. Obviously, the where would you want to be drawn? Against goal is to win the race. You’ve got to set the the rail on the inside, in the middle, or on the standards high, but ultimately it’s about the outside?” I ask. “It doesn’t really matter. I think occasion and having fun.” the horses will be spread across the track.” She has drawn in the middle, gate No7 to be exact Valjalo is one of several lady jockeys in the field and comes into the race on a horse in good who have not ridden in an official race. But, form, having finished runner-up in his last two she feels that her bond with horses is another starts around the Durbanville turn. thing that will stand her in good stead come Saturday. “I think I understand horses a lot So, what brings Valjalo to this Ladies race? better than I necessarily understand humans,” she admits. “I feel that’s something to my “I’ve been show jumping for as long as I can advantage.” remember, probably around 22 years? I’ve had some experience in a racing environment And, as she speaks I sense there’s something though because my dad is an owner and has she’s hiding behind that deep confidence and shares in a few horses including (four-time A-Lister smile. For someone who has been winning filly) Feather Boa. I also have my first with horses for over 20 years, surely there must horse as owner, Twenty Drachmas, who broke have been loss over that period? “Yes,” she his maiden in December! says. And then that smile disappears. “I have 36 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

lost two horses. My pony died of old age and then a show jumper very close to my heart died at the end of last year. He is what brought me into racing.”

Tell us more about him?

which is a long absence for a 25-year-old on social media. The posts show pictures of Valjaro patting the horse with the big white face after completing a show jumping round.

Another is a reel of her kissing him.

On Facebook she wrote: “My Shaggy… No words will ever do your loss justice. Nothing “I called him Shaggy. His actual name was High Street Kensington. I got him as a young could ever fill the void you left that I now feel without you here. You were so brave and fought colt and I took him home. I keep all my horses at home and I have four. But when I took him to so unbelievably hard for the past 3 weeks shows he would get really nervous and unused which were undoubtedly the worst weeks of your life and mine. I’m so sorry for all your to the number of horses there. So, I thought pain and suffering my boy. This really isn’t that it would be unsafe to him and others in how things were meant to be. We were still that kind of atmosphere. I managed to get him some experience at Randjesfontein so that supposed to celebrate your 5th birthday and catch up on all the treats you missed out on, he could get used to other horses and a lot of distractions and things happening. But … at the but I pray you are in your happiest place now end of last year he got colic and three surgeries my baby. You SO deserve it.” later we couldn’t save him.”

There’s a pause and even the first sounds of silence in the parade ring. “I stopped riding I had noticed that her last Facebook and competitively. And then I got contacted Instagram posts had been in November 2022,

03 JANUARY 2024 | 37

v

about this Ladies race and I decided to get competitive again, both in show jumping and racing. Shaggy has helped me pick up the pieces, get back in the saddle as they say.”

Shaggy will be on Valjaro’s mind when she puts her game face on and saddles up for the opening race on the L’Ormarins King’s Plate programme.

“I’m dedicating this race to Shaggy,” she says.

“It’s also my older brother’s 31st birthday on 5

January, so hopefully I’ll be able to give him a birthday gift.”

The photographer is waiting. There are six ladies being lined up for the lens. The photographer asks for one of them to be lifted and lie horizontally, trusting her colleagues to not drop her. Guess who takes up the challenge?

The Okapi Ladies International is off at 12h25.

FOLLOW US on Instagram! sportingpost_za

38 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 39

v

IT COULD BE A ROLL OF THE DICE! Kayleigh Oakes – partners Roll Of The Dice | Credit: Cape Racing

40 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

The name of Kayleigh Oakes’ mount in Saturday’s Okapi Ladies International at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth is not lost on her. Roll Of The Dice, priced up as a 50-1 outsider in the 12-strong field of amateur ladies riders, of whom seven will be making their debuts in a race.

Oakes has a distinguished show jumping background, having been interested in that aspect of the equine industry since she was a youngster. “My parents tried everything to stop me from riding horses,” she laughs. “They wanted me to take up golf, pushed me into netball … everything. But I was so attracted to show jumping.”

On Saturday she dips her toes into the competitive waters of race riding.

“The name of my horse actually describes it well. It’s Roll Of The Dice. I came down from Johannesburg a few weeks ago and sat on a few options from Michelle Rix’s stable. I liked Roll Of The Dice and here we are.”

It’s still early days and Oakes is making the adjustment from show jumping to race riding.

“I’m sure a lot of the girls will tell you the same thing that the shorter stirrups and the different centre of gravity are the biggest challenges. In showjumping the stirrups are never as short as they are here and your centre of gravity shifts completely. Plus, the speed you go at is completely different!”

Despite not having been in a race before, Oakes has more than an outsider’s knowledge of the sport. Her boyfriend is professional jockey Wesley Marwing and she sought his advice when first being approached about her involvement in the Okapi Ladies International.

“Vicky Lerena (also in Saturday’s race, aboard The US Of A) sent me a message on Instagram and said, ‘would you like to do the ladies race?’

I said to my boyfriend, ‘um it’s not something I’ve ever thought about, but why not give it a try? The next day I went to Paul Matchett’s yard at Randjesfontein and they stuck me on

some horses. I was like, ‘OK, maybe I can do this’. I’ve been very lucky and have had lots of people giving me tips and advice.”

Just so that we can establish ground rules here…were Oakes to win on Roll Of The Dice, would she have bragging rights over her boyfriend?

“Oh no,” she laughs. “I would never try to tell him how to ride winners! He has way more experience than me.” Indeed he has. Marwing rode the first winner of his own career aboard Money Tree back in 2012.

Like everyone, Oakes has a favourite horse, a show jumper.

“Kokopillau was my first horse coming off ponies and he was the first to jump me around 130s (1.30m high obstacles) in July 2022. The first racehorse I sat on and who I first started jumping out of the pens on was Charge Ahead.

He was trained by Paul Matchett and is now down in Gqeberha with Zietsman Oosthuizen.

He’s a three-year-old who I also did my first grass gallop on.”

She is a racing enthusiast. although admits to “not knowing anything about betting”, and she enjoys the morning’s track work.

“I’m gaining confidence all the time,” she adds.

And, jumping from draw one in Saturday’s 1200m sprint down the straight, she will have the inside rail for company. Which is entirely the opposite from Roll Of The Dice’s own race debut, when he was drawn 14 out of 14 around the Durbanville 1250m turn. He finished ahead of a horse who won his next start and has finished less than two lengths behind the winner in his following two post-maiden efforts, Master Of Paris.

In fact, if you look at that race’s subsequent formlines, Roll Of The Dice might well make a mockery of his 50-1 odds.

The Okapi Ladies International is off at 12h25 on Saturday.

03 JANUARY 2024 | 41

v

42 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 43

v

Aldo Domeyer drives Beach Bomb up to nab JP van der Merwe and Silver Sanctuary in the shadow of the WSB Cape Fillies Guineas post | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

2023 – LOTS AND LOTS OF GOOD STUFF! Seems as if the older we get, the quicker time flies.

Hence, with 2023 now behind us, we take a moment to reflect on some of the racing highlights.

In what proved to be an especially momentous year, Drakenstein Stud not only repeated as the country’s leading breeders, the blue and white team also stood in isolated splendour at the top of the owners’ log.

44 | 03 JANUARY 2024

The stud’s owner Gaynor Rupert is deservedly reaping the rewards of her considerable investment in local racing and breeding, and over the past twelve months has watched her silks carried to victory in a number of the country’s premier Gr1 races.

2023 started with a bang when Drakenstein-bred Nic Jonsson-owned Jet Dark took his Gr1 tally to five with a storming victory in the WSB Cape Town Met.

v

That proved to be the champion’s swansong and he returned to his birthplace where this spring he covered a star-studded book of mares in his first season.

For the Hollywoodbets Durban July, Drakenstein assembled an army of five homebreds, which is an achievement in itself, and it was Winchester Mansion who claimed the country’s most iconic race.

In fact, it was a first July success all round for the owner/breeder, trainer Brett Crawford, as well as jockey Kabelo Matsunyane .

for the achievements of two Drakenstein-bred sophomores, Charles Dickens and See It Again.

The former, a son of Trippi, had bypassed the sales ring thanks to the fact that he displaces his palate and was retained to race in the interests of his stud.

He turned out to be one of the talking horses of the year and was crowned the country’s champion miler and champion three-year-old male, following victories in the Hollywoodbets Gr1 Cape Guineas, Hollywoodbets Gr1 Gold Challenge and Gr2 WSB Guineas.

Other homebreds to score at the highest level were Trip Of Fortune and dual champion Rain In Holland, the former travelling to Turffontein to annex the H F Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut Stakes, whereas the latter notched up a third Gr1 success by leading home a Drakenstein one-three-four in the Woolavington 2000 at Hollywoodbets Greyville.

See It Again was ‘one that got away’ when he was sold to Nick Jonsson as a yearling.

Success at the elite level continues unabated, for early in December, the stud celebrated a fine homebred classic double with Beach Bomb claiming the WSB Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas and Snow Pilot the Hollywoodbets Gr1 Cape Guineas.

However, 2023 is perhaps best remembered

Second to his old nemesis in the Gr2 WSB Guineas, he went on to complete a classic double in the Gr1 Daily News 2000, whilst only Winchester Mansion deprived him of victory in the July.

Trained by former champion jockey Michael Roberts, this three-part brother to erstwhile Horse of the Year Do It Again made heads turn when he upstaged Charles Dickens in the SplashOut Gr1 Cape Derby.

See It Again beats At My Command and Charles Dickens in the WSB Gr2 Green Point Stakes Credit: Chase Liebenberg

03 JANUARY 2024 | 45

v

SA Horse Of The Year Princess Calla | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

The son of Twice Over most recently scored a scintillating win in the recent WSB Gr2 Green Point Stakes, where he had Charles Dickens back in third, and he is sure to make his presence felt in the new year.

In addition to this treble, her stakes haul also included the Gr2 Southern Cross Stakes, Gr2 Sceptre Stakes and Gr2 Senor Santa Stakes as well as a runner-up spot in the Gr1 Computaform Sprint.

As much as Drakenstein dominated on the track, it did miss out on the coveted Horse of the Year award, which, for the second year in succession, went the way of a member of the fairer sex.

She remains in training as a six-year-old and following her recent fourth in the Green Point Stakes, has the Gr1 Cartier Paddock Stakes on Saturday as her next target.

Flower Alley five-year-old Princess Calla was the epitome of class and versatility in a season which saw her travel the country and notch up three successive Gr1’s.

The remarkable upswing in thoroughbred sales of 2022 continued unabated in 2023, with all sales recording across-the-board gains.

Bred by Maine Chance and trained by Sean Tarry, Mario Ferreira’s mare won the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint over 1200m, followed up in the Ridgemont Gr1 Garden Province Stakes over a mile, and proved her superiority over the extra furlong when landing the Gr1 Champions Cup with authority.

46 | 03 JANUARY 2024

Varsfontein-based Gimmethegreenlight featured as the sire of the year’s R3,800,000 top priced yearling.

Offered by Maine Chance Farms at the Cape Premier Yearling Sale and out of the stakes winner Victoria Lavelle, the colt was hammered

v

down to the Hong Kong Jockey Club.

The most expensive yearling filly and also the highest-priced lot sold at the National Yearling Sale was a R3,200,000 full sister to Kommetdieding from Oldlands Stud, which was purchased by Kenneth Pillay’s Kestorm Investments.

On the stallion front, Gimmethegreenlight ruled supreme, reclaiming the crown he had relinquished to Silvano in 2022 and such was his superiority, that he led on all fronts as the leading overall sire, sire of two-year-olds and three-year-olds.

He currently finds himself atop the general sires list once again and with the likes of champions Bless My Stars, Sandringham Summit and the, as yet undefeated filly Gimme A Nother to represent him, he is well placed to clinch a third General Sires title.

whilst the classic generation is likely to be represented by Snow Pilot and Hluhluwe.

Speaking of which, who will emerge as the season’s top sophomore? We will probably have to wait for the KZN winter season’s Gr1 action, which traditionally determines the season’s champions.

Until such time, we can look forward to the Triple Crown and the Triple Tiara.

Now wouldn’t it be grand if visitors from the south crossed the Vaal to take on the likes of local standouts Sandringham Summit and Gimme A Nother? We can but hope.

Wishing you all a wonderful 2024!

The premature loss of both Lancaster Bomber and New Predator was starkly underlined this year. The former, who was last season’s leading freshman sire, has the distinction of siring the Gr1 Guineas winners Beach Bomb and Snow Pilot in his very first crop, a rare achievement indeed.

Ridgemont welcomed New Predator to its stallion ranks earlier in the year, but tragedy struck when he died in a paddock incident in July.

He too had the makings of a fine stallion, considering first-crop son Purple Pitcher claimed the notable scalps of Gimmeanotherchance and champion Sandringham Summit in the Gr2 Dingaans.

On a more positive note, freshman stallion One World is off to a flying start with his first juvenile runners, siring four individual winners in quick succession.

As for 2024, the new year is set to kick off on an explosive high with the running of the Gr1 L’Ormarins King’s Plate this weekend, which promises to be yet another mouth-watering clash between See It Again and Charles Dickens,

Kommetjie Storm was the highest priced yearling filly of 2023 at R3,2 million | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

03 JANUARY 2024 | 47

v

Karin Le Roux – goodbye after 28 great years | Credit: Pauline Herman

GQEBERHA SAYS GOODBYE TO KAREN An unsung backroom stalwart of East Cape horseracing, Karin Le Roux called time on twenty eight memorable years in the industry as the last race was run and the sun set at Fairview on Friday.

Always a smiling face, the Promotions Manager with the warm and friendly disposition has been looking after racegoers and stakeholders in the Windy City through an unprecedented 48 | 03 JANUARY 2024

era of change, and upheaval.

“I have had the time of my life – through twists and turns and changes in management over the years, wonderful people, challenging personalities, champions, and some truly colourful characters, I leave with very fond memories,” Karin told the Sporting Post on Thursday evening.

v

As one of a group of personnel offered early retirement packages by 4Racing, Karin tells that the shocking loss of her son and other close family during the covid pandemic, had given her a new perspective on life.

slippers! I was younger so didn’t ask too many questions!” she laughs as she also fondly remembers the party spirit generated by the charismatic retired racecaller ‘Bumpie’ Schoeman.

One of six children, Karin’s Dad passed away when she was just 5 years old and she knew her Stepfather, until he died in February 2023.

“Uncle Stanley Greeff was another lovely man.

He used to tell us to improve the trophies – and was the reason that we started upping our game with Carol Boyes quality and crystal decanters! Oom Nic Claasen was another wonderful gentleman. I was requested by his family to read a poem at his funeral. That was an honour,” she remembers.

“I am only 58 years old, and still have the energy and enthusiasm for this wonderful industry and the people. But the stark loss of family during the covid years made me realise that life is to be lived and loved today. My partner Thomas also works in the USA for eight months of the year. We have bought a plot of land at Boknesstrand up the coast, and we plan to build a little place and enjoy the quality things that life has to offer,” she explained.

A chance meeting with Mike Rishworth, then the boss at Specsavers in Gqeberha, saw the Cilliers High School graduate commencing what would be a rewarding career in horseracing hospitality on 2 November 1995.

After Rishworth’s departure, she worked under Mike Greeff and Margaret James, and the late Gavin Brown.

Karin recalls that one of the great ‘honours’ bestowed on her happened perchance in the year of her 40th birthday.

Karin says that veterans Dorrie and Mark Sham were ‘amazing people’, who did extraordinary things for the local community and the industry.

“They were always staunch fundraisers and such caring folk who did so many good things – whether it was for preschoolers or horse care.

They are wonderful people!”

Any pet hates about her job that she won’t miss?

“This is the hospitality industry, so we do see the best and worst of people. I didn’t enjoy people who were whinging for the sake of whinging, and moaning about nothing – just for the sake of moaning!”

And who and what will she miss the most?

“Weekend work is part of the job, but I requested management that I be given leave to celebrate my 40th. I told them that if the East Cape Derby was run on that day, that I would not be able to make it. So they duly changed the date of the Derby!” she adds proudly.

“Everybody! This is a small and close-knot community. If you push me to name my best friends, I would have to say Jacques Strydom and his wonderful family. What a family!

Special!” she added, saying that she will also miss her office at Fairview.

Thinking about the colourful characters of the years past, Karin laughs and says that ‘there are really too many to mention’.

“There is a special vibe in the corridors at Fairview. It’s a combination of history, horses and people. I intend to enjoy my retirement, but I am going to miss racing!”

“It would take a book to mention them all.

But as a quick thought, I recall the late Arthur Miller used to walk into the small office at Arlington. He was so serious, yet wore pink

03 JANUARY 2024 | 49

v

50 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 51

v

NEW PARTNERSHIP CELEBRATES FEATURE WIN 52 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

Juliet Tango charges to victory under Serino Moodley | Credit: JC Photos

03 JANUARY 2024 | 53

v

The brand new partnership of owner Mano Pandaram and Summerveld trainer Lorenzo Karriem enjoyed a dream start courtesy of the Rafeef mare Juliet Tango, who registered her maiden stakes success with an easy victory in the R225 000 Listed War Of Athena Handicap at Turffontein on Saturday.

Formerly run as the Jacaranda Handicap, the 1800m feature brought the curtain down on the Highveld feature programme for 2023 and produced an R8 4467 trifecta dividend in a result that would have sent most punters running for cover.

The lovely grey 3yo Witblits started an 18-10 favourite and led the bunch for the first 1300m, before coming under pressure. She fell right away to finish ten lengths back.

Juliet Tango (16-1) had been making ground from rear of midfield and she built up through the middle outside before streaking through under Serino Moodley to score a convincing 2 length win in a time of 111,28 secs.

Joey Soma’s Bellevarde (33-1) improved on her recent form to grab second from Bonete (6-1), who looked dangerous late in the race.

A former jockey who tried his hand in the

stableyard due to weight issues, Lorenzo Karriem has worked under the likes of top men like Greg Ennion, Joey Ramsden, Charles Laird and Sean Tarry, before a stint with owner Mario Ferreira.

While he gave no indication what the plans are, owner Mano Pandaram did say that he had moved some horses from Paul Matchett’s yard ‘on good terms’.

KZN-based Winning Form-sponsored jockey Serino Moodley did the riding honours and made it a happy raid on his former hometown with a welcome feature strike.

A R210 000 National 2yo Sale purchase, the winner was bred by Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein and is by the top-class Ridgemont sire Rafeef (Redoute’s Choice) out of the four-time winning Jet Master mare, Jet Trail.

Now a winner of 3 races with 7 places from her 19 starts, Juliet Tango took her stakes tally to R417 375.

Mike de Kock enjoyed a good day at the office on his return from Australia, with three nice winners, while Muzi Yeni and Diego de Gouveia grabbed a double each.

Mano Pandaram and Lorenzo Karriem kiss the beautiful trophy | Credit: JC Photos

54 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 55

v

Rafeef daughter Juliet Tango wins the War Of Athena Handicap | Credit: JC Photos

REDOUTE’S CHOICE SET FOR ROYAL DAY Deceased Australian legend Redoute’s Choice made his presence felt in South Africa on Saturday.

A full-sister to Gr1 World Sports Betting SA Derby winner Aragosta, Mrs Browning has now won three of her last four starts.

The three times Australian Champion Sire’s 182 stakes winners include 2017 Gr1 Computaform Sprint winner Rafeef, whose daughter Juliet Tango captured Saturday’s Listed War Of Athena Handicap at Turffontein on Saturday with another Rafeef daughter, recent Gr3 Joburg Tourism Carry On Alice Stakes heroine Mrs Browning, also victorious at Turffontein on Saturday.

Redoute’s Choice’s regally bred daughter Zappy Choice (whose dam is a half-sister to unbeaten Arc winning champion Zarkava) is the dam of progressive three-year-old The Grey King (Vercingetorix), who made it back-to-back wins when he won at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday.

56 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

The late, great son of Danehill could continue to enjoy posthumous success at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth this weekend, with Redoute’s Choice a feature in a number of runners’ pedigrees on L’Ormarins King’s Plate day.

King’s Plate runner Al Muthana, winner of the 2023 Gr1 L’Ormarins King’s Plate, is out of the high-class Redoute’s Choice daughter El Daana, herself winner of both the Gr2 VRC Edward Manifold Stakes and Listed SAJC Queen Adelaide Stakes.

A son of Deep Field, Al Muthana has won eight times with his victories also including the 2022 Gr1 Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge.

Redoute’s Choice could also make his mark in the Gr2 Anthonij Rupert Wine Premier Trophy (he is the damsire of Premier Trophy hopeful Master Redoute) and Gr1 Paddock Stakes - his highclass daughter Shaama is the dam of Paddock Stakes runner up Saartjie.

His son Rafeef is also set to be well represented

The 2023 Gr1 L’Ormarins King’s Plate winner Al Muthana is out of the high-class Redoute’s Choice daughter El Daana Credit: JC Photos

at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth this Saturday.

Rafeef’s high-class sons Outlaw King and Thunderstruck contest the Franschoek Motor Museum Winchester Sprint Cup (fellow Sprint Cup runner Ready To Charge is another with Redoute’s Choice in his pedigree), his daughter Shantastic is a runner in the Gr2 Cartier Sceptre Stakes, and Rafeef’s son Aragosta (winner of the recent Listed Spinawina Slots Cape Summer Stayers Handicap) lines up in Saturday’s Gr3 Glorious Goodwood Chairman’s Cup. Redoute’s Choice’s Gr1 winning grandson Heavenly Blue is another represented on Saturday, with Heavenly Blue filly Three Rocks a runner in Saturday’s Gr2 Cartier Sceptre Stakes.

At the time of writing, Redoute’s Choice broodmares had been responsible for 13 runners in South Africa this season, with their seven individual winners including the stakes winning pair of Master Redoute (Gr3 Ridgemont Peninsula Handicap) and Saarjtie (Gr3 SplashOut Victress Stakes).

03 JANUARY 2024 | 57

v

58 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 59

v

60 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

BLING’S IN TOP GEAR Formagear (Smanga Khumalo) surges ahead in the wet to beat Imilenzeyokududuma (Mgudlwa) and Cape Eagle (Fourie) in an exciting finish | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

03 JANUARY 2024 | 61

v

There was nothing particularly festive about the running of the R100 000 weather delayed R100 000 Listed Christmas Handicap at a wet Hollywoodbets Greyville on New Year’s day.

The two fancied runners were well beaten in SA racing’s first feature of the year, and the rain came down throughout the running of the mile contest in bleak conditions.

But Formagear’s trainer Peter Muscutt and owner Koos Pieterse were all smiles as 2024 started well as they put the disappointment of certain incidents in 2023 well behind them.

The 4yo Formagear (6-1) powered home under Smanga Khumalo, his long action taking him 0,80 lengths clear of the improved again Imilenzeyokududuma (10-1) to win in a time of 97,31 secs.

62 | 03 JANUARY 2024

Cape Eagle (33-20) tracked fellow fancy Addabar (15-4) all the way around and looked a winner at the 300m as the Odendaal champion started coming up for air. But the son of Vercingetorix was cosigned to third, with Addabar running a disappointing race well downfield.

Raced by Koos Pieterse’s EVN Legal Practitioners Inc, this was Formagear’s maiden stakes success.

He was bred by Avontuur and is a son of Querari (Oasis Dream) out of the five-time winning Ideal World mare Peep Show by Ideal World.

A R250 000 National Yearling Sale buy, Formagear has now won 4 races with 5 places from his 17 starts for stakes of R298 250.

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 63

v

MUSCUTT’S NEW YEAR’S DAY FEATURE DOUBLE 64 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

The Peter Muscutt team celebrated a superb feature double at a wet Hollywoodbets Greyville on Monday with the unfancied Rockie Reef storming home to win the R125 000 Gr3 Flamboyant Stakes.

Deryl Daniels produces the surprise as Rockie Reef grabs her maiden stakes success | Credit: Candiese Lenferna 03 JANUARY 2024 | 65

v

Like her stablemate Formagear who secured the honours in the Listed Christmas Handicap a half hour earlier, Rockie Reef was registering a maiden black-type success and ran a gallant race under an emotional Deryl Daniels.

Another visitor, Marigold Hotel (3-1) stayed on for third and 0,70 lengths back.

The winner is raced by the Estate of the late Mr B L Rae & Ros Coetzee.

Daniels made a comeback to the game in March last year, and couldn’t have wished for a better kickstart into 2024.

Bred by East Cape-based Ascot Stud, she is by multiple Gr1 winner Jackson (Dynasty) out of the YK-raced Rock Of Gibraltar mare, Rockie Bright.

Ironically he was riding the winner for the Hollywoodbets -sponsored Peter Muscutt yard, who had given him his first job back some years ago on the anniversary of the running of the same race, which they won.

Rockie Reef is a half sister to the smart Heavenly Blue filly Three Rocks who runs in Saturday’s Cartier Gr2 Sceptre Stakes.

She has now won 6 races with 6 places from her 20 starts for stakes of R432 050.

The final two races on the card were A 5yo mare, Rockie Reef (33-1) was covered abandoned after the jockeys raised a protest early and then built up in the straight as she finished too strongly for Gauteng visitor Lady Of about the track conditions.

Power (9-2) by a half length in a time of 99,83 secs.

66 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 67

NEW YEAR’S v

DAY WASHOUT The abandonment of Monday’s Hollywoodbets Greyville opening racemeeting of 2024 with only two races to run has been described as ‘outrageous’ in some quarters, with trainer Michael Roberts expressing his utter disappointment with the almost flippant nature of the decision.

“I rode for long enough to understand and appreciate the dangers of unsuitable track conditions to both horse and rider, and I find it bizarre in an age where we are trying to rebuild the game and when every owner and punter needs to be safeguarded and looked after, that this can just happen without consultation and for no apparent good reason other than rain,” the former multiple international champion jockey told the Sporting Post.

There was consistent rain throughout the afternoon and the nine-race card was abandoned following jockey concerns after the running of the seventh, the second of the feature races.

Ironically, the rain abated almost immediately after the announcement.

Roberts explained that cognizance should surely have been taken of the fact that they were running on ‘fresh ground’ on Monday, after the 8m false rail was used on Sunday.

He also said that horses don’t get hurt in wet weather – it’s the hard dry ground that causes more injuries.

“Did nobody consider for one moment that we had two 1000m races left? One with 68 | 03 JANUARY 2024

seven runners and the other with nine. They weren’t massive fields. I went down to look at the divots – there were hardly holes to be filled. It is a disgrace for owners and the punting public. It can take months to ready horses to run. And because a group of riders decide they would rather pack up, that’s it?” he added.

The Sporting Post has learnt that it had already been apparently agreed upon in mid meeting to only go as far the seventh race.

“That’s why they must even run the feature as the last race as a consideration, if necessary. This also happens on the big days when the jockeys choose to stand down. It’s not professional,” added Roberts.

The Sporting Post has learnt independently from a source who did not wish to be named that some of the local riders were happy to continue, and that only an elite group are effectively earning the big bucks to find the rain a discomfort.

Chairman of Gold Circle’s Racing Committee Dr Manfred Rohwer responded to our query for a comment and said that he could assure us that the KZN racing operator would be looking at formalizing a structure, which would establish measurable criteria and diverse stakeholder participation, and would also enjoy the trust and support of all stakeholders.

“We understand the frustrations and we need an ordered standard operating process, where all participating stakeholders are represented and which is clearly understood,” said Rohwer.

v

A spectator seems to be enjoying the rain at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Monday Credit: Candiese Lenferna

03 JANUARY 2024 | 69

v

70 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

Real World wins it last year | Credit: DRC

MEYDAN KICKS 2024 OFF ON FRIDAY Runners from five different countries do battle at Meydan Racecourse on Friday as 2024 ushers in a highly competitive night of Dubai Racing Carnival action.

With 2023 winner Master Of The Seas going on to Gr1 Breeders’ Cup Mile success, the Gr2 Zabeel Mile, Friday’s feature, is a proven pathway to international glory.

Enhanced prize money of AED850,000 has attracted a field of 13, including Real World, winner of the race in 2022.

“Real World won this contest a couple of years ago and ran two excellent races over a mile in Europe the same season,” trainer Saeed Bin Suroor told godolphin.com. “He has been running over further since but should appreciate the drop back in trip. It looks as though he has improved for his run in the Al Rashidiya.”

One of Real World’s rivals is Jamie Osbornetrained Sean; the only overseas raider. The seven-year-old, a Group 3 winner in Italy, has been purchased by Barratt Racing as something of a global campaigner.

“It’s his first run for us so this is a bit of a factfinding mission,” said Osborne, whose multiple Dubai successes include Toast Of New York in the G2 UAE Derby. “It’s possible he will need further on this track.

“Barratt Racing is all about taking horses to nice places for the fun of it. We felt Sean was a horse that could compete at Meydan and potentially then move on to Royal Ascot, Goodwood etc.”

One of the leading local contenders is San Donato, although the Listed winner must again overcome a wide draw.

03 JANUARY 2024 | 71

v

“San Donato has drawn 13, 14, 15, 13 and 13 the last five times he’s been declared,” said trainer Doug Watson. “It’s a bit tough from out there but it’s a great race for him, albeit Real World is in there and Marbaan for Michael Costa.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how he finishes.

Hopefully he can get some nice splits from off the pace.”

Marbaan joins Costa from Charlie Fellowes

in the UK, for whom he won the G2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood in 2022.

“The original plan was to start over seven furlongs [1400m] a little later in month,” said the UAE’s current leading trainer. “But when the nominations came up the way they did we entered. Marbaan will come on from the run, making it a nice starting point.

Follow all the Meydan news on www.sportingpost.co.za

FOLLOW US on Instagram! sportingpost_za

72 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 73

v

ENNION SETS SYNDICATION BAR 74 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

Milnerton-based veteran conditioner Greg Ennion made history at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Wednesday 27 December 2023 when he became the first trainer to saddle a winner under Cape Racing’s exciting new syndication incentive programme.

All Is Green comes home powerfully under Corne Orffer | Credit: Chase Liebenberg 03 JANUARY 2024 | 75

v

All smiles! 4Racing’s Danie Toerien and Richard Cross-Forrest receive the incentive cheque from Cape Racing’s Justin Vermaak | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

The celebration came courtesy of the Genuine Ennion Syndicate’s All Is Green who finished strongly to win the second race, a R150 000 Maiden Juvenile Plate (Fillies), at the penultimate local racemeeting of 2023.

The initiative, run through Cape Racing’s recently unveiled Cape Turf Club membership body, is based on promoting ownership within the region and on expanding and transforming the ownership ranks.

A typically astute R50 000 purchase by trainer Greg Ennion off the Cape Racing Sales 2023 Cape Racing Winter Mixed Sale, the Nadeson 76 | 03 JANUARY 2024

Park Stud-bred All Is Green stepped up from a quiet first run after coming in on the morning of the race as a reserve runner.

Relaxed early by Corne Orffer, she finished with a sustained effort at 25-1 and showed the benefit of race experience to beat the more fancied debutante Sheets And Goggles (7-2) by a half length in a time of 61 secs.

In The Green Zone (20-1) caught the eye in third, while Duchess Of Paloma (50-1), who was full of herself in the preliminaries, was right up there in fourth.

v

The 28-10 favourite Dafnes Daughter ran out of the money and 7,65 lengths off the winner.

The Genuine Ennion Syndicate picked up the R100 000 Cape Racing Sales Juvenile bonus, as well as a R20 000 Syndicate bonus, while Greg Ennion banked the R5 000 Syndicator’s bonus.

When asked to account for the ‘improvement’ by his filly, a typically straightshooting Greg Ennion said, ‘ it wasn’t improvement!’

“First time out she dropped the bit and never picked it up. Thanks to Corne Orffer. This win was an indication of the work she has shown us. And I believe she will be even better over This win was an indication of a mile,” he added.

The syndicate’s thrilled owners includes 4Racing’s Danie Toerien, the work she has shown us.

Ennion has been a Richard CrossAnd I believe she will be even shrewdie at finding the Forrest, who assisted with some value buys, and better over a mile.

All Is Green looks of the décor at the serious value at newly revamped R50 000. Beating a Hollywoodbets field of quality well-bred contemporaries in the Kenilworth, as well as Martin and Monique height of the competitive Cape summer season Clark, Laetitia Pretorius, Sarah Robertson, is encouraging!

Nolan van Vuuren, Steve Chatfield, and longstanding SA racing supporter Andre van Schaik.

03 JANUARY 2024 | 77

v

78 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 79

v

80 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 81

v

A head separated Main Defender and Sandringham Summit at their last meeting | Credit: JC Photos

HIGHVELD HOTSHOTS BUMP HEADS ON SUNDAY While the L’Ormarins King’s Plate day at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday will hold top billing on the first local feature weekend action of 2024, there is a Grade 3 contest at Turffontein on Sunday that promises more than some fireworks.

Sandringham Summit, and the Tony Petertrained Main Defender.

The duo, both currently rated 121, have met twice and the win tally stands at 1-1.

The Betway R350 000 Got The Greenlight Stakes, formerly the Tony Ruffel Stakes, will be run over 1400m on the Turffontein Standside track and headlines a treble feature programme.

Speculation about possible match races has led to nothing, and it was a pity that neither graced the final line-up for the 2023 Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas last month.

Three weeks prior to the Cape classic clash, they were expected to meet head-on in the Gr2 Jonsson Workwear Dingaans over 1600m on Betway Summer Cup day, but things went pearshaped in both camps, to put it mildly.

Standouts in the seven horse contest are two familiar names in David Nieuwenhuizen’s

Tony Peter didn’t want to run his charge from a wide draw in the Dingaans and went instead

82 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

for the Gr3 New Turf Carriers Merchants over 1160m on the same afternoon.

History now shows that Sandringham Summit was comprehensively beaten into third and two lengths behind Purple Pitcher and Gimmeanotherchance in the Dingaans, while Main Defender was pulled out of the Merchants by the Stipes in a mass withdrawal of the Tony Peter horses on a day that still puzzles many of us, and is the subject of an Inquiry on 24 January.

So they last clashed over Sunday’s course and distance in the Graham Beck Stakes on Allied Steelrode Onamission Mile day, where Main Defender and a ring rusty Sandringham Summit went hammer and tongs over the final 400m, with the Peter runner prevailing by a short head.

Prior to that, Main Defender, beaten only once in six starts and that by Sandringham

Summit in the HK World Pool Moment Of The Day Premiers Champion Stakes in KZN at the end of his 2yo term, had come out firing in a sensational season debut to annihilate some quality older opponents in the Betway Gr2 Joburg Spring Challenge by over 6 lengths.

Sandringham Summit, who will step out in the famous while and scarlet strip of Varsfontein Stud, was recently syndicated for stud and his connections will be keen to see him back in winning vein.

To add further needle, Calvin Habib, who was jocked off Sandringham Summit in favour of Gavin Lerena, takes over the reins on Main Defender from Kabelo Matsunyane for his first ride on the son of Pathfork on Sunday.

We are talking about the clash before the event – no question there will be lots of banter after it!

Set the alarm – 16h10 on Sunday 7 January.

03 JANUARY 2024 | 83

v

84 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

Paddy McGivern and Mark Truter share a chat and a drink | Credit: Supplied

WEST COAST COWBOY

In the remote coastal village of Paternoster, where the salty breeze whispers authentic fisherman’s tales, there is a man on horseback who seems to have emerged from the pages of a weathered cowboy novel.

Every day he navigates the narrow streets and rides onto the long strip of windswept beach wearing faded black jodhpurs and an old leather hat. His hair is on his shoulders, the colour of hay.

Former jockey Mark Truter can be mistaken for the rugged adventurer from the old ‘Camel’ cigarette adverts. Or, indeed, one who has outback survival skills and perhaps a big knife hidden in his saddle bag.

that rings out frequently in our entertaining threehour conversation.

Mark relates how he found his treasure of a hat.

“An old man stopped me in the street here in Paternoster one day and presented it. He said he’d inherited the hat from his grandfather, who told him to pass it on to someone who loves horses. It’s made from genuine leather and must be at least 50 years old.”

Some mornings Mark rides his trusted Arabian companion, Zahara, with three riderless horses in tow, on a rope.

For fun, to keep them all exercised and to teach “Some of the townsfolk call me the ‘Crocodile them good beach behaviour. They’re all perfectly Dundee’ of the West Coast, but I’m not that handy schooled for rides on Paternoster’s Long Beach – with a weapon,” he says with a peal of laughter frequently booked by tourists and holidaymakers 03 JANUARY 2024 | 85

v

visiting Mark and his partner Marilyn Pharo’s West Coast Beach Rides situated on a smallholding next to the picturesque R399 on the approach to town.

“We are settled and happy here. We moved into Marilyn’s family house and to start our horse business, we rented half an acre of land from Margaret Lawson, a well-to-do Irish lady. We’ve enjoyed generous help from the community to get us on our feet and to keep things going,” said the man who has spent the last 50 years-plus travelling up and down the Cape Coast to carve out a living. He’s been on or around horses all the time.

“There was nothing on this land initially, it was irrigation ground for lavender and olives. ‘Dave The Builder’ came around one day – that’s Dave Westbrook who owns the Trading Post shop in town. Dave said, ‘Paternoster needs horses and beach rides for tourists, what do you need to start?’ We discussed it, he insisted on helping and the next day he delivered all the building materials needed for four stables, a feed room and paddocks. He covered everything, including the labour to get it built. We’ve added more stables since then.”

Recently, West Coast Beach Rides hosted 20 children from ‘Hoopsig’, the community project that provides underprivileged children with access to sports and physical activities.

They were shown all the parts of the saddle and bridle and given a rundown on the physical parts of a horse.

Free as the wind | Credit: Supplied

The people here have been so helpful and kind.

I’ve also had plenty of assistance from my old friend Tienie Maritz. Many years ago, I was able to help him when he suffered financially. Tienie is a wealthy man today, he gave me a Mercedes panel van to drive and they service it for me to keep it running. We cannot ask for more, we are so grateful.”

Time has SPRINT etched its story Mark’s features.

THE IS on INTERACTIVE PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT THE WEST COAST COWBOY

They had a chance to familiarise themselves with Mark’s well-schooled horse brigade and to sit on them.

Some of the kids even showed natural riding skills. There is room for future projects, like Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT).

“When we had a tough patch a few weeks ago, the Hoopsig management and racehorse owner Ivan Snyman sent us 200 bales of oat hay from Snyman’s farm up the road on the R399.

86 | 03 JANUARY 2024

Life’s a beach for Mark | Credit: Supplied

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 87

v

88 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

PRESIDENT KENNEDY! Warren Kennedy has stamped an indelible mark on New Zealand racing with the ex-pat South African jockey dominating proceedings at Pukekohe on New Year’s Day with seven wins, including four of the five feature events on the card.

Fresh off a suspension that cost him riding on Boxing Day, Kennedy made every post a winner and produced one of the rides of the day on the Lance Noble-trained Habana in the Gr2 Rich Hill Mile (1600m).

Fresh off taking the Gr1 Sistema Railway (1200m) with a last-to-first performance on Waitak, Kennedy produced an almost carbon copy of that effort as he lifted the race topweight Habana (58kgs) across the line to snatch victory in the very last stride from a gallant Saint Bathans.

Swedish native Ulrika Holmquist was giggling when she turned for home on the Andrew

Forsman-prepared runner-up as he travelled sweetly and quickly established a two-length break on her rivals.

Still in front at the 100m she began to get desperate as Kennedy and Habana loomed large in her peripheral vision and her heart must have sunk as the goal of winning her first stakes race in New Zealand was taken from her as the favourite thrust out his head and snatched the victory.

Kennedy was at his typically understated best as he paid tribute to the horse, Noble and winning owners Brendan and Jo Lindsay.

03 JANUARY 2024 | 89

v

“That was absolutely fantastic and especially for Cambridge Stud as they are huge supporters of mine,” Kennedy said.

“To Lance and the whole team just a big thank you and there really are so many people to thank.

“It has been such a great day and I just couldn’t ask for anything better.

“Everything has come together and I actually thought I had got beaten, so luck was definitely on my side.He didn’t get that luck last time and coming in here he was topweight and the class horse of the field and with him class has prevailed.”

Noble was a picture of uncertainty as he waited to hear the judge’s call on the finish and was relieved when it went in his favour.

“A lot of satisfaction out of that as he is such a genuine horse although he has a few quirks and makes you work for it,” he said.

“Topweight and winning like that gives me a lot of satisfaction.

“He doesn’t have the greatest feet so it’s a big thank you to our farrier and all our crew at home that do such a tremendous job with the horses.

“You don’t have to give him (Kennedy) too many instructions and when I told him where the best part of the track was he said he knew as he had won a few today.”

By Zoustar, Habana is out of four race winner Jeter, who is a half-sister to Group Three winner Fast ‘N’ Famous, with Habana’s granddam Zalinda a daughter of Gr.1 Railway Handicap (1200m) winner Alynda.

He has now won eight of his 16 starts and over $402,000 in prizemoney, with six of those wins coming from seven starts at Pukekohe.

The seven victories by Kennedy sets a new mark for most wins on a raceday in New Zealand with five other riders having achieved six including Lance O’Sullivan, who now as a trainer in partnership with Andrew Scott provided Kennedy with three of his winning mounts in Grande Gallo, Karman Line and Waitak. loveracing.nz.

A HAPPY STORY South Lanarkshire trainer William Young Jnr said that Tuesday was the most emotional day he has had on a racecourse after his stable star Ardera Cross battled to a 14th success for him and a ninth at Ayr in the 2m½f handicap chase.

“It’s the most emotional I’ve been,” Young said.

“I had a lot of people there for the day out, not to see him winning, and he went and did it. It was incredible, the horse just wants to keep running. I’m delighted for him.

90 | 03 JANUARY 2024

“When he won his 13th race for me I got a calendar made with pictures of his wins. I sent all of the jockeys one and all of my friends have one – it needs to be updated now! I always said if he won one I’d be chuffed, if he won two I’d be even happier, and if he won three I’d retire that day.”

The 13 year old Ardera Cross was bought out of Dan Skelton’s yard for just £1,000 in 2019.

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 91

v

92 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

CHAMP WILL MISS STEWARDS’ CUP Golden Sixty storms to victory in the Gr1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile last month | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

03 JANUARY 2024 | 93

v

Golden Sixty will bypass the 2024 Gr1 Stewards’ Cup at Sha Tin on 21 January after the champion miler presented with a minor leg issue on Wednesday 27 December.

“The vets said we can give him light trotting for three or four weeks and progressively we can check on him. The issue is just inside the pastern on his front left leg.”

Trainer Francis Lui said the record-breaking Golden Sixty – brilliant last-start winner of the Gr1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile on 10 December – would be restricted to trotting exercises over the next three to four weeks, ruling out a bid at a record-extending 11th international Group 1.

Winner of the Stewards’ Cup in 2021 and 2023, Golden Sixty was beaten in the 2022 edition

by Waikuku when attempting to match Silent Witness’ Hong Kong record of 17 successive victories.

“We found, the day before yesterday (Wednesday) in the morning, a little bit of filling and a little bit of heat (in his front left leg). The vets did a check, a scan and an MRI – there’s nothing serious, but they sent a report to England,” Lui said.

“It’s very slight but, of course, for the safety side, we don’t want to push him because the race is only three weeks’ time.

94 | 03 JANUARY 2024

Hong Kong’s champion, Golden Sixty has won 10 Group 1s, 26 of 30 starts and a record HK$165.85 million in earnings.

FOLLOW US on Instagram! sportingpost_za

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 95

DECLARATIONOFPEACE (USA) v

War Front - Serena’s Cat (Storm Cat)

Stands at MacRath Stud in Nottingham Road • The son of brilliant American sire War Front has enjoyed two full books of mares in his first two years at stud, His mare book includes Gr1 producing mares such as Mystery Dame (Lady In Black and Nexus) and Bloomhill mare, Wysiwyg – the dam of Bohica and Bartholdi.

• A $2,6-million weanling who is a half-brother to Gr1 winner Honor Code and Gr2 winner Noble Tune, Declarationofpeace has also enjoyed significant support from breeders outside of the KZN province, with Cape mares travelling for cover.

• Declarationofpeace is throwing quality and size into his foals and his first yearlings will be on offer in the sales rings in 2024.

Service Fee: R 20 000 Live foal Enquiries and Booking: Mike McHardy (083 447 5315) advertorial

96 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

03 JANUARY 2024 | 97

v

The unbeaten Constitution Hill | Credit: BHA

NATIONAL HUNT

BOOSTS FESTIVE CHEER Two favourites from three of the most prestigious Group 1 National Hunt features over the festive season added to the Christmas cheer with racegoers treated to some of the greats in action.

First up was the unbeaten Constitution Hill who scared away most of the opposition in the Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle. There were only four challengers in the field, including stable companion First Street.

His opposition were overmatched, and he started a 1-12 favourite on his belated seasonal return. The six-year-old reminded everyone of his ability with an effortless nine and a halflength victory at Kempton for trainer Nicky Henderson and owner Michael Buckley.

Henderson remarked post-race: “We want to win the Champion Hurdle again. You have to 98 | 03 JANUARY 2024

put it all into perspective, he can only beat what is put in front of him, and obviously there will be a lot more to come in March.”

Half an hour later Henderson saddled another stable star, the enigmatic Shishkin, in the day’s highlight, the King George VI Chase.

Considered by some to be only behind the Cheltenham Gold Cup in terms of prestige, six high-class chasers competed for £143,000 first prize including defending champion Bravemansgame and the Willie Mullins trained Allaho.

Frodon set a strong pace from the 3-mile start until Shishkin jumped into the lead six out, closely followed by Allaho and Bravemansgame. The remaining two runners, The Real Whacker and Hewick, looked out of it heading into the straight.

v

Gavin Sheehan aboard the Irish trained Hewick (12/1) contemplated pulling up his partner as he scrubbed him along at the back of the field.

It still looked a hopeless cause for Sheehan three out but when Shishkin stumbled and unseated Nico de Boinville at the second-last when leading, the race took on an entirely different complexion.

Hewick, who to his credit had managed to stay in the contest to that point, then started to close on Allaho and Bravemansgame, who unlike the eventual winner had been on the sharp end of a searching gallop from the off. From the back of the last, the little horse who cost just €850 finished best and managed to lead close home to record the most unlikely of King George triumphs.

“The further I was going the more I was thinking this just isn’t happening,” relived rider Gavin Sheehan. “If it hadn’t been the King George, I’d have probably pulled him up. I never felt comfortable and never had any

fluency. It wasn’t until I jumped the last down the back and gave him two reminders that I started to feel a gear change and a new horse underneath me.”

Last but not least, Galopin Des Champs victory in the Gr1 Savils Chase at Leopardstown was one for the ages. A spectacle considering the seven-year-olds slick jumping in the vanguard and his 23-length demolition of a quality field.

Strong market support for Gerri Colombe and consecutive defeats to Fastorslow resulted in Galopin Des Champs jumping off at odds against for just the second time in ten starts, but he was back to his dominant best over the three-mile trip.

Fastorslow was a late absentee in the Savills due to unfavourable soft ground, but on the day, the Willie Mullins star showed he is the one they all have to beat in the Gold Cup at Cheltenham.

03 JANUARY 2024 | 99

v

100 | 03 JANUARY 2024

v

results up to: 2024-01-03

TRAINERS Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Other Places

Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

Mr S J Snaith

463

52

11.2

58

53

81

192

41.5

5,290,194

8,103,900

Mrs C L Bass-Robinson

291

38

13.1

34

29

62

125

43.0

3,517,500

5,403,875

Mr M F de Kock

238

31

13.0

35

33

39

107

45.0

2,433,750

5,249,063

Mr B J Crawford

350

42

12.0

33

39

57

129

36.9

3,031,006

4,745,794

Mr A P Peter

203

45

22.2

30

26

34

90

44.3

3,607,813

4,699,188

Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Other Places

Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

Mr R D Fourie

648

125

19.3

111

69

143

323

49.8

7,720,813

12,059,863

Mr M A Yeni

698

96

13.8

95

80

166

341

48.9

8,826,563

12,227,075

Mr G J Lerena

377

65

17.2

57

66

71

194

51.5

4,770,500

7,143,650

Mr C J Habib

533

63

11.8

44

63

102

209

39.2

4,407,500

6,450,713

Mr S Khumalo

368

58

15.8

53

54

63

170

46.2

3,486,250

5,332,363

JOCKEYS

BREEDERS Name

Runrs Runs

AEPR

B.T. B.T. Total Wnrs/ Wnrs Wins Rnrs% Places Winrs Wins Stakes (R)

Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein

262

922

44,924

91

114

34.7

386

6

7

11,769,963

Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)

152

472

77,147

55

76

36.2

212

10

10

11,726,394

Klawervlei Stud

210

728

32,734

60

73

28.6

285

0

0

6,874,175

Varsfontein Stud

126

447

48,185

32

40

25.4

181

2

2

6,071,319

Ridgemont Highlands

120

401

42,745

41

53

34.2

158

0

0

5,129,419

Name

Runrs Runs

AEPR

B.T. B.T. Total Wnrs/ Wnrs Wins Rnrs% Places Winrs Wins Stakes (R)

Gimmethegreenlight (AUS)

186

571

45,741

45

59

24.2

251

3

4

8,507,838

Vercingetorix

164

506

43,153

55

70

33.5

198

1

1

7,077,088

Querari (GER)

156

541

41,180

51

58

32.7

234

6

6

6,424,100

Master Of My Fate

160

570

39,938

46

62

28.8

242

1

1

6,390,000

Pathfork (USA)

54

206

111,216

25

32

46.3

77

3

4

6,005,675

SIRES

See all the detailed standings - Click here 03 JANUARY 2024 | 101

v

102 | 03 JANUARY 2024