SP Sprint - Wednesday 6 December 2023 by Sporting Post

Wednesday 6 December 2023

SEEING… IS BELIEVING! 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 1

CONTENTS

UPPING THE CLASSIC ANTE! 06 A Platform Of Champions The classic of kings

35 Boom Baby! She’s the bomb

60 Story Of The Bear & A Goose! Linda Seja speaks about his winner

70 KZN Breeders

Celebrating stars of season past

80 Now That’s Electric! Mother Nature shows off

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On the cover

Piere Strydom drives KZN champion See It Again out to a sensational victory in Saturday’s WSB Gr2 Green Point Stakes at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. Image courtesy of Chase Liebenberg.

Issue: 54/2023

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HOLLYWOODBETS CAPE GUINEAS – FIRST ENTRIES 6 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

Hluhluwe beats Snow Pilot and Green With Envy in the Cape Punters Cup | Credit: Chase Liebenberg 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 7

Sean Tarry’s Tail Of The Comet is the only Gauteng challenger at first entry for the 2023 R2 million Hollywoodbets Gr1 Cape Guineas to be run at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday 16 December.

ran on steadily late for a smart third in the Punters Cup.

South Africa’s time-honoured premier classic was won last year by Candice Bass-Robinson’s Charles Dickens, who made it six on the trot when cruising to victory in the 2022 renewal.

Questioning was an impressive winner of the Cape Classic but produced a flat run when fourth in the Punters Cup. But Vaughan Marshall is another conditioner who has past Guineas winners’ photographs in his stable office.

While there is no standout amongst the 12 first entries received on Monday morning, Justin Snaith’s recent Gr2 Cape Punters Cup winner Hluhluwe looks a progressive 3yo with plenty of scope.

Tail Of The Comet produced a flat run in the Cape Punters Cup when just out of the quartet, but is sure to bounce back on previous best form.

Supplementary entries close on Friday 8 December, with declarations due on Monday 11 December.

Dean Kannemeyer certainly knows what it takes What chance we could still see Highveld to win this race and he labelled Green With hotshots Sandringham Summit or Main Envy a ‘Guineas type of horse’ when Khaya Defender taking their chances? Stables’ son of Gimmethegreenlight

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THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS!

See It Again – highly rated entry for the 27 January spectacular | Credit: Chase Liebenberg 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 13

WSB Cape Town Met ’24 The First Entries! A bumper first entry of 33 was received on Wednesday 29 November for the 162nd edition of the R2 million WSB Gr1 Cape Town Met which will be run at the sensational new look Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday 27 January 2024. The entry includes the impressive Betway Gr1 Summer Cup winner Royal Victory, as well as his province mate See It Again, who took on fellow entrant Charles Dickens in the WSB Gr2 Green Point Stakes.

The 2024 renewal’s fashion theme is ‘Cape Splendour’ which embraces a glorious return to form, celebrating the evolution of horseracing at one of Cape Town’s most iconic sporting landmarks, Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.

The big race timeline: • First supplementary entries due on 18 December 2023. • Final supplementary entries due on 8 January 2024. • Weights published on 8 January 2024. • Declarations on 17 January 2024. • Final field and draws on 17 January 2024.

Inspired by the resplendence of the fairest Cape worldwide, Cape Splendour is a fusion of glamour, grace, and glory – from world-class hospitality to extraordinary haute couture.

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We can’t wait!

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TURNING THE SPORT AROUND!

Making things happen! Justin Vermaak and Greg Bortz | Credit: Troy Finch 18 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

Horse racing, especially in the Western Cape, lost its lustre for a while. But two hard-working enthusiasts – Greg Bortz and Owen Heffer – are turning this around. Gary Lemke shares the journey. Unlike many of the great racecourses of the world, there is no statue of a famous horse paying homage to exploits at Kenilworth. Not yet, that is. In time, who knows? Perhaps there will be a Pocket Power statue, or Wolf Power, Politician, Sea Cottage or Horse Chestnut. Perhaps Charles Dickens. It would be a permanent reminder of the giants who have graced the turf. However, when they come to honour the great achievers, perhaps they will also find room to acknowledge two men who have saved racing in the Cape from oblivion. With Cape Racing floundering in 2022, Greg Bortz and Owen Heffer embarked on a path to turn the industry around. Racing returned to Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Sunday, the first meeting of the season, after the first four months had been held at its country cousin, Durbanville. Record crowds had flocked to the “country course” venue from August to late November, but the 1974 Bachman-Turner Overdrive hit, “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet”, could have been re-released in the past week. Simply put: The venue is unrecognisable from what it was when last seen publicly in July. A facelift for the grand old lady of the Cape racing scene? Not even close. More of a complete makeover.

How did we get here? Bortz takes up the story: “Former Kenilworth racing co-chairman Robert Bloomberg came to see me. I knew that racing was in bad shape, and the product was getting worse and worse,” Bortz said. “But I was not aware of the extent of it. I was told that Hollywoodbets were looking at the situation. Through that process, we were put in touch with one another. I didn’t know that Owen was Hollywoodbets, but I knew him from Winning Form days in the 1980s. “My view was that partnering with the biggest bookmaker made complete sense. That happened to be Hollywoodbets. In Owen’s case, his overriding primary objective was to save racing. Hollywoodbets, of course, enjoy a secondary benefit – namely if racing is saved, there is still horse product for its customers to bet on. “So, the strategy made sense on both an altruistic and business level: raise stakes to stimulate the demand, which produces more owners, which means more horses being bought, which means more horses being bred, which means a bigger horse population, which means bigger fields, which means more betting turnover. “The manner in which Owen and his team do things is inspirational. Not only is Hollywoodbets an exceptionally well-run organisation, but they always do the right thing. “They always prioritise others and the community. The reality is that I am the one doing interviews and, in the forefront, but I would be nowhere were it not for the leadership, guidance, support and encouragement of Owen and his team.” www.dailymaverick.co.za

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DR T’S ROYAL VICTORY When Royal Victory flashed past the post at 33/1 to win the richest Gr1 race in Johannesburg, the R5 million Betway Summer Cup run over 2000m, it surprised a lot of people, but not the breeder Marianne Thomson, who owns Ambiance Stud in Worcester, Cape Province.

Royal Victory | Credit: JC Photos 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 23

Marianne has long been a small breeder, whose horses tend to surprise, for she breeds warriors aimed at the racetrack, if not for the sales ring.

very hard to do sales talk. I put so much time and effort into planning the horse, raising them to be hard and sound and happy, and above all to have manners and to trust humans.”

How else would you term it, when her Ambiance Stud has bred at least 8 individual Gr1 winners, and yet if you look at her National Yearling Sales prices for the past four years, her stud sells its yearlings at around 35% below the average for the sale.

“My focus has always been on raising athletic, sound, horses to win races, rather than predicting the commercial fashion of the day”, she says.

“I’m not setting out to be the breeder of cheap horses”, Marianne explains, “but when you are a small breeder, you unfortunately tend to escape the notice of the biggest buyers at the sales.” “The only part of breeding horses that I absolutely dislike is the selling part. My stress levels go wild when sales approach. I find it

Dr Thomson | Credit: Supplied 24 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

Summer Cup Gr1 Winner, Royal Victory (by Pathfork – Kailani by Kahal) was no exception at the 2021 National Yearling Sales. He was sold as Lot 80 and made R90,000 to the astute bid of trainer Natie Kotzen in a sale which averaged R276,000, or three times what Royal Victory sold for, and the median price R200,000. The top priced of that sale was R2,8 million and that colt so far has 2 wins with a merit rating of 86.

Royal Victory as a yearling Royal Victory’s earnings tally of R3,636,260 so far is therefore a fine advert for the breeding policies of Marianne at her Ambiance Stud. Consider that in the previous crop, she bred

Alesian Chief (Vercingetorix – All in the Mind, by Var) who was not sold at the Sales and eventually sold privately to Corrie Lensley and won both the 2022 Golden Horse Sprint (Gr1) and the Johannesburg Merchants (Gr3) earning R905,000 for his happy owners.

Royal Victory as a yearling | Credit: Supplied

Alesian Chief The global rule of thumb in the 65 countries that conduct racing is that a Gr1 win is achieved by one horse in approximately every 1000 horses, and therefore to breed a Gr1 winner is a rare and signal achievement, which most breeders only aspire to, but never attain.

Stayer 2003, who would have been a Gr1 winner if South Africa staged a Gr1 championship race for older fillies and mares over more than 2000m. Almah’s achievement saw her exported to Australia for stud, where she has 7 runners and 6 winners, including the Gr3 winner Sensible Lover.

Marianne has bred EIGHT individual Gr1 Winners.

The first of Marianne’s Gr1 winners were the two full brothers, both by Al Mufti (USA) out of the mare Jessamine, which she acquired from Jean Heming after she won the Gerald Rosenberg S (Gr2).

In addition, she bred Almah (Al Mufti-Jazz Champion), the Equus Champion Female

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The first was The Sheik (R180,000 Yearling) who won the 2000 Cape Derby (Gr1) and the 2000 South African Guineas (Gr1) and earned his place as a stallion at Scott Bros in KZN.

Merchants (Gr1), and the Tommy Hotspur S (Gr3). He was adjudged Equus Champion Sprinter 2002/03 and Marianne had bred her first Champion.

His full brother was Al Nitak (R150,000 Yearling), who Mary Liley raced, and he was a total surprise – he didn’t win at 2, broke his maiden at 2000m at 3, and seemed a decidedly below average middle-distance horse.

Jessamine deservedly won The Broodmare of the Year Trophy of 2003.

Then, at Marianne’s suggestion, he was transferred to the genius sprint trainer, Buddy Maroun and Al Nitak was reinvented as a brilliant sprinter, winning 12 races including the Golden Horse Sprint (Gr1), the Johannesburg

Marianne had acquired Damascus Road (by Mecca Road), a smart filly who had won 8 races including the Tibouchina S, then a Listed Stakes. In sending her to Al Mufti, the resulting foal was Alastor (an R80,000 Yearling) who proceeded to win 10 races for trainer Sean Tarry including the 2005 J&B Met (Gr1) and earn R1,9 million.

Alesian | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Alastor In the same season, Cataloochee (Al Mufti – Lexington Love by Old Testament) a R180,000 Yearling became the fourth Gr1 for the stud, winning the double of the Computaform Sprint (Gr1) and the Golden Horse Sprint (Gr1), and another Equus Award of Champion Sprinter of South Africa 2004/05. 26 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

Sarabande (Goldmark- Blitz Polka by Truly Nureyev) was the fifth Gr1 Winner, winning the Fancourt Majorca Stakes (Gr1) 2004 over 1600m, beating a start studded field of five other Gr1 winners. The grey filly didn’t make the cut for the National Sales and was sold at a regional Cape Sale.

Loved by her supporters and very successful as a foundation mare for Avontuur Stud, she produced three SW including Volta, 8-time winner and Listed SW, and later the dam of the 2023 Computaform Sprint (Gr1) winner Master Archie. Sarabande has the distinction of having an Avontuur boutique wine named after her. In 2005, the TBA honoured Marianne with the

Equus Outstanding Breeder Award. Number 6 was Bull Valley (Toreador- Star of Liberty by Saumarez) (R180,000 Yearling), son of a speed stallion and a stoutly bred mare, was another fireball sprinter for Ambiance. He won 6 races and R1,637,125 including the rare double of the Tsogo Sun Sprint (Gr1) and the Mercury Sprint (Gr1) in 2017.

Alastor| Credit: Supplied

Bull Valley Then, in recent years, number 7 and 8 are Alesian Chief and Royal Victory. What is more remarkable than any racetrack achievement is Marianne herself. She has been an equine vet her whole working life, and only started breeding horses in her forties, as an adjunct to her veterinary practice. At age 83, Marianne packs more effort into her working week than people half her age.

She still services three outside farms, travelling to their studs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to palpate mares and engage in routine veterinary work. Generally, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays are reserved for her own stud. Weekends are spent in her beloved garden where she is at her happiest. She does regular surgery and is esteemed for her fountain of knowledge built on her handson practical experience of all things equine, and her intellect and drive which remains high and full of energy. 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 27

Bull Valley | Credit: Supplied

With 12 grandchildren and a family spread globally from Canada to China, Dr T, as many know her, leads a very full and active life. Marianne also bred Lil’ Bacio (Windrush-Bacio) who didn’t get to race, and which she gifted to Wynand Nel. Lil Bacio produced for him the 2020 South African Derby (Gr1) winner Out of Your League and the Stakes Winner Zeus, who ran 4th in Royal Victory’s Summer Cup Gr1. That her CV contains so much understated success will surely mean greater respect and recognition in the sales ring that her accomplishments deserve. The Ambiance drafts at the Cape Yearling Sale in January 2024 and the National Sales in April 2024 include colts by Hawaam, Rafeef, Master of My Fate, and Elusive Fort, with perhaps the most intriguing being Summer Cup hero Royal Victory’s half-sister by Querari, going to Nationals.

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I asked Marianne how she chooses her matings: “I am a practical hands-on person” she says, “ I know my mares very well and I am able to choose stallions that suit them on conformation and temperament”. “I respect the pedigrees, but I find it more relevant to choose on complementary physical characteristics, I don’t set out to breed a sprinter or a stayer, I just aim to breed good sound, well balanced, good looking individuals that win races”. “I own a share in Vercingetorix, and some shares in lesser stallions, but by and large I have to be more considered if I’m paying a stud fee”. Pathfork (IRE), sire of Royal Victory, is a case in point. He stands for R5,000 service fee and Marianne uses him every year. What she has recognised, and perhaps other smart breeders will now realise, is that he is actually, a smart stallion, who sits way under the radar.

considered if I'm paying a stud fee”.

Pathfork (IRE), sire of Royal Victory, is a case in point. He stands for R5,000 service fee and Marianne us him every year. What she has recognised, and perhaps other smart breeders will now realise, is that he actually, a smart stallion, who sits way under the radar. v

Below are his lifetime statistics: Below are his lifetime statistics: PATHFORK (IRE) : Analysis by Crop Crop

Foals

Rnrs

13/14

14/15

15/16

Wnrs

Wins

SW (GW)

SWs(GWs)

(85%) 31

108

2 (2)

8,673,175

(68%) 35

2 (1)

8,553,840

(68%) 30

111

4 (3)

10 (6)

11,305,877

16/17

(66%) 30

101

3 (1)

6,965,381

17/18

(63%) 27

1 (1)

2 (2)

6,342,297

18/19

(84%) 20

4,502,376

19/20

(64%) 23

2 (1)

3 (2)

7,380,522

20/21

(60%) 6

1 (1)

2 (2)

1,532,250

Totals

351

299

(68%)202

617

17 (10)

27 (16)

55,255,718

Statistics courtesy of Arion Pedigrees

He has 68% winners from runners, and has sired 17 SW, which is 5,6% SW to Runners, which is much higher than the national average; and yet Pathfork stands for one of the lowest advertised fees. Amongst his 17 stakes winners are four outstanding horses: Mighty High (won the Allan Robertson Fillies Championship Gr1), Pearl of Asia (won the Mercury Sprint Gr1), Royal Victory (Summer Cup Gr1) and, probably the best of the lot, the star youngster Main Defender (currently the joint highest rated 3-year-old in South Africa). Pathfork (Ire) (by Distorted Humour - Visions of Clarity by Sadlers Wells) was bred by the famed Niarchos family and was the Irish Champion Two Year Old of 2010 when he won the National S (Gr1) 7f and the Futurity S (Gr2). He finished a creditable 7th in the 2000 Guineas (Gr1) won by Frankel. Originally well syndicated to stand at Ridgemont, confidence waned in his commercial appeal and he was transferred to James Armitage’s Sandown Stud in 2018 around the time Mighty High, born in his 3rd crop, won the Alan Robertson Fillies Championship.

Pathfork | Credit: Patrick McCann

Pathfork wins the Gr1 National Stakes over 7f as a 2-year-old in Ireland.

him, it’s hard not to recognise FACTS. He is a good stallion.

According to James, he is used now mostly by smaller breeders, who send him around 30 mares per year, although after Main Defender’s exploits this year, his book has swelled to 45.

Given Royal Victory’s win in the R5m Summer Cup Gr1, it seems that, like Marianne Thomson’s Ambiance Stud, recognition and reward for Pathfork are going to be a lot higher going forward into the future.

He breeds a solid type, gets good colts and fillies, mostly with good size and sound correct limbs, and gets what you call a “trainer’s horse” – solid, dependable, sound, consistent runners. In Mauritius, he has 21 winners from 24 runners; in Zimbabwe, its 7 winners from 9 runners and in Kenya, 1 runner, 1 winner. His consistency is well known. Whatever preconceptions or prejudices buyers in the commercial market might hold against 30 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

The Author The Sporting Post’s guest columnist Robin Bruss is a widely respected industry expert and a man with an encyclopedic knowledge of horseracing and breeding. He has been involved with the sport all his life, as a Gr1 winning owner and breeder, agent, auctioneer, journalist, television presenter, researcher, administrator and consultant.

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Drakenstein 1-2! Aldo Domeyer drives Beach Bomb up the outside to nab Silver Sanctuary (JP van der Merwe) on the line | Credit: Candice Lenferna

DOUBLES FOR DRAKENSTEIN

A half hour after a disappointing effort by their flagbearer Charles Dickens, the Drakenstein Stud team celebrated a Grade 1 exacta and a maiden breeding success in the R1 250 000 WSB Cape Fillies Guineas, courtesy of the royally-bred pocket rocket, Beach Bomb.

Mike de Kock, Kia Ora Stud and Larry Nestadt.

It was a super Saturday of celebrations, after the blue and white team celebrated a victory earlier in the day by Serasana in the Gr2 Neds Sandown Guineas at Caulfield in Australia. The daughter of Snitzel is raced in partnership with

A typically top-notch field of the best of the fairer sex sophomores lined up to face the starter, with disappointment for the connections of the smart Red Palace, who was withdrawn after playing ducks and drakes with the starter’s

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After partnering with the late Jack Mitchell in the 2017 Cape Fillies Guineas winner Snowdance, their first breeding success in the prestigious classic made it a classic day of some proportions for the Drakenstein team.

commitment to get our races off on time. Rascova led stablemate Royals and the fancied Double Grand Slam into the home run, but none had any answers for the feisty Beach Bomb who flew late under Aldo Domeyer to nab Silver Sanctuary in the shadow of the post to win going away. A daughter of the much-loved Dynasty five-time Gr1 winner Beach Beauty, the diminutive Beach Bomb produced a scintillating turn of foot to beat De Kock raider Silver Sanctuary (8-1) by a neck in a time of 98,63 secs. Western Cape Fillies Championship heroine Rascova (8-1) was not disgraced in third after showing a lot of pace all the way. Crowned KZN Breeders Horse Of The Year on Friday evening, Mrs Geriatrix (9-4) made up buckets of ground from into the home straight to finish a top-class fourth. A first Gr1 winner for the deceased War Front stallion Lancaster Bomber, Beach Bomb has won 3 of her 5 starts for stakes of R969 493.

Beach Bomb looks set for a great season and, while she has some way to go to be anywhere near as good as her Mom, she is showing great promise. Trained by Dennis Drier, the charismatic Beach Beauty won 17 races during her illustrious career, winning from 1000-2000m. Her 12 graded wins including five Gr1 scores –two wins in the Gr1 Garden Province Stakes and Gr1 Paddock Stakes, and a triumph in the Gr1 Majorca Stakes. She was also runner up twice in the Gr1 Rising Sun Gold Challenge, and third in the Gr1 J&B Met, when taking on the best males of her generation. Beach Beauty, who earned over R5,3 million during her career, accounted for some of the best horses of her generation, including the likes of Along Came Polly, Capetown Noir, In The Fast Lane, and Yorker, as well as notable Gr1 winners like Buy And Sell, Jackson, Pomodoro, and Top Seller.

WSB’s Hilton Hasson and winning trainer, Candice Bass Robinson | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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Aldo Domeyer and Beach Bomb grab the win | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

BEAUTY IN MOTION! A champion on the track and now a champion in the paddocks, Beach Beauty is living proof that high-class racemares do make top producers, following the victory of three-yearold daughter Beach Bomb in the Gr1 World Sports Betting Cape Fillies Guineas. Blessed with the same trademark turn of foot as her illustrious dam, the Lancaster Bomber filly unleashed an explosive stretch run to join the ranks of Drakenstein-bred Gr1 winners. Beach Beauty can justifiably be considered a gift that keeps on giving. She has a 100% strike

rate with her first five foals, four of which are stakes performers. On the track, the diminutive mare enjoyed a stellar career under the expert tutelage of now retired trainer Dennis Drier and maintained her brilliant form up to age six, winning 17 races. They don’t make them like that anymore, more’s the pity. When she eventually bowed out of racing, this Grande Dame of South African racing arrived at Drakenstein as a five-time Gr1 winner of the Majorca Stakes, Garden Province (twice) and Cape Paddock Stakes (twice).

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She started her broodmare career with a bang when her first foal, the Trippi colt Wild Coast, claimed the Gr2 World Sports Betting Guineas at Hollywoodbets Greyville. Next came the Duke Of Marmalade colt Rex Union, who amazingly overcame a heart problem and made his presence felt in the staying ranks with placed efforts in the Gr3 Gold Cup and Gr3 Gold Vase. With her third foal, Beach Beauty at last presented Drakenstein with a coveted first filly. Named Amanzimtoti, this full sister to Wild Coast earned black type with a comprehensive victory in the Gr2 Western Cape Fillies Championship. Beach Bomb is her fifth foal and was preceded by the Silvano colt Narina Trogon, who looked another fine prospect when he won first time out, but sad to say, has failed to build on that. Beach Beauty’s dam line was founded by

one of the pre-eminent breeders of the sixties, Jim Armitage of Rathvale Stud. Home to the successful stallions Pent House II and Kirsch Flambee, the Standerton farm was also birthplace of such titans of the turf as Home Guard and Gatecrasher. In fact, Beach Beauty’s third dam Free Pass, is a daughter of Home Guard out of an unraced daughter of Kirsch Flambee. A champion on the track, this son of Pent House II ripped through his first eleven starts unbeaten. Successful in the SA Nursery (by 7.50 lengths), Benoni Guineas (by 5 lengths), SA Derby and SA Guineas, he tasted defeat for the first time when second to Naval Escort in the 1969 Durban July. Free Pass retired to stud a four-time winner, but most importantly, had finished second

Aldo Domeyer enjoys the post-race celebration with the Bass Racing staff and WSB Cape Fillies Guineas Winner Beach Bomb | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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in the Gr3 Newmarket Fillies Plate and third in the then Gr1 SA Oaks. She produced just four foals, but these included Easter Handicap second Exeat and the Hobnob filly Leisure, who clearly inherited her sire’s stamina by finishing second in the J&B Reserve Stayers. Mated to the Mr Prospector horse Capture Him on several occasions, Leisure produced Gr1-placed Affair and stakes-placed Custody, as well as Beach Beauty’s dam Sun Coast. James Armitage of Sandown Stud, the grandson of Jim Armitage recalls: “Sun Coast was bred by my uncle, the late Trevor Armitage, who I think sold her as a yearling. A couple of years later, I noticed she was being offered at auction and was in foal to Dynasty. I said to him, now’s your chance to get one of your mares back. I think he paid R30,000 for

her and that foal was Beach Beauty!” Sadly, despite all efforts, Sun Coast never produced another registered foal and it’s safe to say that her daughter has revived a female line which wasa in danger of fading into obscurity and furthermore, has cemented her place amongst Drakenstein’s leading broodmares, with Beach Bomb as its latest standout performer. Beach Beauty was one of a throng of highclass mares to visit Jet Dark this year and is already well in foal. Her legacy is sure to mushroom, for not only does she have two fillies, a Gimmethegreenlight juvenile and a Vercingetorix yearling, waiting in the wings, her Gr2 winning daughter Amanzimtoti has joined her dam at Drakenstein and has a What A Winter filly foal at her side.

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In a nailbiting finish, Grant van Niekerk (black cape) gets Kwinta’s Light’s head down to beat Shantastic (Piere Strydom on the inside) and Gqeberha raider Three Rocks (Louis Mxothwa) on the outside. Gareth Wright (blue cap on inside) grabs fourth on the favourite October Morn | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

GREEN FOR “GO GET THEM”!

While it was a race of hard luck stories, there is no taking any credit away from Gimmethegreenlight’s smart daughter Kwinta’s Light who scored a career peak success when finishing with a flourish to win the wsb.co.za Gr2 Southern Cross Stakes at a sun drenched Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday.

Shantastic (100-) by 0,30 lengths in a time of 57,74 secs.

Gqeberha visitor Three Rocks (25-1) ran a cracker, another 0,30 lengths back in third. Place Accumulator punters lamented the fancied October Morn (5-4) running the same margin back in fourth.

A R550 000 Cape Premier Yearling Sale graduate, the victress is raced by Maine A mare that was destined for a second career in Chance Farms and Pamela Isdell, and is now a the paddocks, trainer Justin Snaith suggested winner of 5 races with 14 places from 23 starts she had little mileage on the clock and Dr for stakes of R742 451. Andreas Jacobs decided to let her race another season. Bred by Syrilla Stud, the winner is by champion sire Gimmethegreenlight (More Than Ready) The move has paid dividends, and Kwinta’S out of the Kahal five time winner Kwinta. Light (10-1) produced the goods under Grant van Niekerk as she came on late to beat 40 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

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Grant van Niekerk and Kwinta’s Light are greeted by the Snaith Racing Team | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

KAHAL’S RICH RUN! For a second week in a row, a daughter of the late Kahal (Machiavellian) was responsible for producing a South African graded stakes winner.

Saturday, with Trippi’s Silk (out of the Kahal mare Enchanted Silk) victorious in the second race on Saturday, and Eternal Optimist (out of the Kahal mare Cousin Annie and closely inbred to Green Desert) causing a surprise when landing the fourth race on the card.

Previously, Kahal mare Kailani celebrated 2023 Gr1 Betway Summer Cup victor Royal Victory (Pathfork), while on Saturday, Kahal daughter Kwinta came up with Gr2 wsb.co.za Southern Cross Stakes winner Kwinta’s Light (Gimmethegreenlight).

Cousin Annie, the dam of Eternal Optimist, is also responsible for Listed Port Elizabeth Gold Cup winner Master Supreme and Gr3 Cape Racing Cape Of Good Hope Nursery runner up Wecangoallnight, with the latter sired, like Kwinta’s Light, by Gimmethegreenlight.

The latter has now won a trio of black type races, having previously triumphed in the 2023 Listed Olympic Duel Stakes and the 2022 Listed Laisserfaire Stakes.

Kahal, whose daughter Velvet Glove (dam of champion Mrs Geriatrix) was named KZN’s Broodmare Of The Year on Friday, is also broodmare sire of Mrs Geriatrix (Vercingetorix) who finished a slightly unlucky fourth in Saturday’s World Sports Betting Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas.

In fact, Kahal was broodmare sire of three winners at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on 42 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

The late stallion had previously made his mark as a broodmare sire through the likes of Gr1 Tsogo Sun Sprint winning sire Chimichuri Run (out of the Kahal sired Gr1 SA Filllies Classic winner Spiced Gold), Gr1 Sansui Summer Cup runner up Fort Ember (out of the Kahal daughter Glowing Ember), Gr3 Final Fling Stakes winner Star Fighter (out of Kahal mare Toffee Nose) and Crown Witness. The latter, produced by the Kahal sired Gr1 Computaform Sprint winner Noble Heir, won Australia’s Gr3 MRC Quezette Stakes. At the time of writing, Kahal is second on South Africa’s Leading Broodmare Sires premiership for 2023-2024, with his daughters’ runners having already earned more than R5,76 million this season.

Kahal’s outstanding sire Machiavellian was an excellent and hugely influential broodmare sire. The son of Mr Prospector (who was North America’s Leading Broodmare Sire nine times in ten years between 1997 and 2006) ranks as the broodmare sire of more than 130 stakes winners, with his daughters having produced high-class sire Zoffany as well as such outstanding stallions as Shamardal and Dark Angel. Machiavellian’s superb sire son Street Cry has also become an important broodmare sire, with the late Gr1 Dubai World Cup winner broodmare sire of more than 140 stakes winners, including 2023 Gr1 Ladbrokes Cox Plate winner Romantic Warrior (Acclamation) and Breeders’ Cup winners Rebel’s Romance and Vino Rosso.

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AGAIN AND AGAIN! v

See It Again (Piere Strydom) storms home to beat an improved At My Command (Craig Zackey) and the disappointing Charles Dickens (Aldo Domeyer), in a thriller | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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The champion combination of trainer Muis Roberts and jockey Piere Strydom took a giant step towards a L’Ormarins King’s Plate and WSB Cape Town Met double when star KZN 4yo See It Again beat a top-quality field to win the R600 000 WSB Gr2 Green Point Stakes at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday. Unlike the wsb.co.za Gr2 Southern Cross Stakes run a half hour earlier, there can be no excuses about luck in running in the traditional stepping stone feature, and Piere Strydom had already accepted a runner-up berth when the majestic athlete Charles Dickens started making strides up the outside with 300m to run. But in a flash, the characteristic Dickens dash had sadly folded tamely, and it was See It Again (11-2) who picked them off to score a victory that could have him bidding for SA Horse Of The Year honours this season. The son of Twice Over (Observatory) held on to beat the improved again At My Command (331) by 1,75 lengths in a time of 96,84 secs.

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The popular 5-10 favourite Charles Dickens, who had made ground from last to first, had nothing to offer and was a further 0,40 lengths back in third. Piere Strydom’s retirement years have been converted to pure gold by a horse he only got the ride on as his original engagement in the 2022 SplashOut Cape Derby had been scratched. The veteran champion observed that people actually only know he is riding because of See It Again! “I noticed at his last prep run that he has gone from a chubby guy to a real racehorse. Today

I gave him a chance as he is obviously not at his peak over a distance short of his optimum. When Charles Dickens unwound on our outside I thought we ‘d run second. But then See It Again changed gears and took off. It was an impressive win!” added Striker.

paid dividends. He thanked owner Nic Jonsson for his patience.

Trainer Michael Roberts paid tribute to the improvements at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.

Aldo Domeyer labelled Charles Dickens’ performance ‘fractionally disappointing’ See It Again is a three-parts brother to dual Durban July winner Do It Again. He is a son of Twice Over (Observatory) out of the twice winning Visionaire mare, Supreme Vision.

“We have to be super impressed with what they have done – it’s a fantastic transformation. I have been coming here since the 1970’s,” added the top horseman, who confirmed that the decision to give See It Again a three month break after the Hollywoodbets Durban July had

Bred by Drakenstein Stud, he celebrated the exacta, See It Again is a R120 000 Cape Premier Yearling Sale and has now won 6 of his 13 starts with 5 places for stakes of R3 661 875. The betting picture for the majors over the next two months is likely to change dramatically!

Michael Roberts, Piere Strydom and WSB’s Hilton Hasson on the podium after See It Again’s cracking win Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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SON OF RAFEEF TOYS WITH THE OPPOSITION v

Overdue! Aragosta (Richard Fourie) bounds clear to finally register another win – just a week after running unplaced in the Betway Summer Cup! | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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Winless in the nineteen months since his sensational WSB Gr1 SA Derby victory at Turffontein, Aragosta’s R5 million Betway Summer Cup ‘gallop’ eight days earlier and 1400km away, paid handsome dividends as the fit-as-a-fiddle gelding toyed with his opposition to win the R225 000 Spinawina Slots Listed Cape Summer Stayers at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday. The now 5yo Aragosta had run a reasonable seventh and 4,15 lengths off Royal Victory in the Highveld flagship last weekend, and Saturday’s gutsy win was a training feat of some proportions by Mike de Kock, who suffered an agonizingly narrow defeat in the WSB Cape Fillies Guineas a half hour earlier. Richard Fourie rode a typically well-judged race from near the action in the 2500m contest as Otto Luyken lead Raisahallelujah for much of the race.

Making an early dash for home, Fourie found the two leaders a bit tough to shake off initially. But the further they went, the better Aragosta found his feet, and the topweight stayed on well to give weight and a beating. At the line, Aragosta (4-1) clocked 158,37 secs and had 2,75 lengths to spare over fellow raider Raiseahallelujah (20-1) and the favourite One Way Traffic (14-10). A son of Ridgemont’s Champion Sprinter Rafeef (Rafeef), the winner was bred by Wilgerbosdrift and Mauritzfontein and is out of the Galileo mare Miss Galidora, who was placed over 2000m at 3 in the UK in 2 starts. She is a half-sister to French Guineas winner Clodovil, and while she clearly throws stamina into the mix, it is interesting that Aragosta’s full sister Mrs Browning won the Joburg Tourism Gr3 Carry On Alice Stakes run over 1160m on Betway Summer Cup day!

Mike de Kock and Richard Fourie – top combo! | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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Jermaine Craig will be missed | Credit: 4Racing

JERMAINE CRAIG WILL BE MISSED

4Racing is deeply saddened by the passing of renowned South African luminary, communication entrepreneur and former journalist Jermaine Craig, who passed away on 04 December 2023, aged 49. Born in Cape Town, Jermaine’s life journey was one characterised by dedication, passion, and a profound commitment to his family, and the fields he loved, media and communication. With over 20 years’ experience in media, Jermaine’s professional journey included editorial leadership at The Cape Argus and The Star newspapers. He had significant achievements in sports journalism and was awarded the prestigious 1999/2000 Castle Premiership Football Writer of the Year. His reporting prowess extended to international events, where he covered the 2000 56 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

Sydney Olympics, the 2004 Athens Olympics, and the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, and served as Media Relations Manager for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee in South Africa. An entrepreneur at heart, Jermaine founded Craig Communications in 2018. As Managing Director, his commitment to excellence, creativity, and storytelling defined the ethos not

only of the company but extended to his clients including Kaizer Chiefs Football Club and horseracing operator, 4Racing. Jermaine was a gentle, generous, warm, and welcoming. His untimely departure leaves a void in the sport industry, and his professionalism, and innovative spirit will be remembered by colleagues, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout his illustrious career. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his wife Michelle, and their two children, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and

working with Jermaine. “In the realm of communication and beyond, Jermaine Craig was a true maestro. His impact on 4Racing went beyond the professional; it was deeply personal. His dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to our vision made him an invaluable part of our journey. In his memory, we carry the echoes of his wisdom and the resonance of his spirit, forever grateful for the indelible mark he left on our hearts.” said Fundi Sithebe, 4Racing CEO. May he rest in peace.

Sporting Post Editor - Jermaine Craig worked closely with our editorial team over the past few years and was our liaison with 4Racing’s management team. The Editor and staff of the Sporting Post extend our condolences and deepest sympathies to the Craig family.

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HEAR THE ONE ABOUT THE BEAR & THE GOOSE…? v

A thrilled Linda Seja and trainer Louis Goosen lead debut winner Ibhele in with Chase Maujean up | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

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Linda is all smiles after the win | Credit: Candiese Lenferna 62 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

Louis with his wife, Lunathi Mkonde | Credit: Supplied

A son of an East Cape champion trainer and a lad from Umzimkhulu in the rolling foothills of the Drakensberg. That’s a unique friendship and a professional partnership that only horseracing could foster. And the relationship was cemented at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Wednesday 29 November when the good-looking Captain Of All gelding Ibhele won on debut. Some guys have all the luck! Brand new owner Linda Seja laughs at the suggestion when chatting to the Sporting Post earlier this week after the Louis ‘The Goose’ Goosen-trained Ibhele had romped home to win an 800m Maiden Juvenile Plate at the KZN Capital City track midweek meeting.

The speedy colt also banked the R100 000 BSA Maiden Juvenile Winner’s Bonus. “I really enjoyed the moment. This was very special for me and my family. You must understand that where I come from, nobody even dreams of owning a racehorse. Not even a car mostly,” adds the 43 year old, a successful businessman in the timber industry, and a man who grew up in abject poverty, herding cattle. “Owning racehorses was always the preserve of people of the stature of the Oppenheimers and Ruperts to me. I have been punting for 25 years and longed to race my own horse. Fortunately, my success in business, and an introduction to Mr Louis Goosen, has made that possible. We clicked the day we met, and he has been a true helping hand in terms of guiding me through the processes. And on Wednesday it all came together!” Linda tells us that his love for horses was actually spawned early, when, as a young boy, 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 63

he herded cattle and loved to ride. Judging from his frame, he clearly was never destined to be a jockey, but is relishing the experience of being an owner. He enjoys karate and points out that soccer is not his game. A former EFF councillor in the KZN legislature, and a widely respected former EFF Provincial Treasurer, Linda recalled his days in the stands at Turffontein, Clairwood and Flamingo Park as a punter.

“Linda named him. The Chetty family got involved and took a share. I am really pleased to have been able to stay in Ibhele, with both of these really chilled and happy owners. He is a very nice youngster, and if he trains on, as we expect him to, then we can look forward to some real fun with him. He will relax and develop now, as we gently and steadily prep him for his next run over 1200m at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on 18 February 2024.” When asked how he intends celebrating, Linda tells us that he planned to have a braai with his wife Lunathi Mkonde and their family. Will he be diving in now and buying more horses?

“I have always loved racing and punting teaches about life and about being a good loser. That’s why I arrived last “I didn’t want to hang Wednesday without myself financially. I decided the family and no to spend what I can expectations. I was comfortably afford, and We have to believe in wearing a sweater Louis (Goosen) agreed that South Africa and improve and sandals. I was we enjoy Ibhele and see expecting to see how things go.” life for our people. Ibhele run a good And will he be expecting a race. But when follow-up win? he won, wow, what a surprise. I was very “Don’t forget – I have been a punter for over 20 emotional and was thrilled too, as I put a R1000 years! I am not a novice when it comes to the on him at 8-1, as a show of support and belief.” ups and downs of horseracing. We take the good with the bad. But I will certainly dress up Linda named Ibhele in honour of his family clan a bit next time!” he laughs. symbol. It means ‘bear’, in Zulu. And being a community leader, we asked him A pleased as punch Summerveld veteran Louis how he feels about the future. Goosen takes up the story. “We have to believe in South Africa and improve life for our people. I feel that after “Mr Seja was referred to me when he asked the election next year we could be looking someone in the game for a good trainer who at a coalition government, certainly in KZN would look after him as a new owner, and who and nationally. And that gives us a chance to would guide him through the processes. improve the situation.” I was given his number and then called Linda late last year. Just as we were getting to know each other, he was called to travel overseas for a few months. I again picked up the reins and followed up during this year,” adds the Goose. The Hollywoodbets-sponsored trainer explains that he bought the colt, now named Ibhele, for R80 000 at the BSA KZN Yearling Sale last year. 64 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

And any advice for new owners? “Find a trainer like Louis Goosen and stay within your budget. The enjoyment of following your horse’s progress and getting involved at the stables is something unique. The win first time out was a real bonus. Thanks to Louis and all of his staff.”

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Poorlittlerichgirl (Kabelo Matsunyane) storms home ahead of Say Yes (Calvin Habib) | Credit: JC Photos

VICTORIOUS

– HERE AND THERE! The Hollywood Syndicate-Ridgemont partnership celebrated a rare and rather unique double 13 600 km apart in different hemispheres, just after 14h10 (SA time) last Thursday. What’s the chances of the same silks being carried to victory for the same partnership at the same SA off time? The filly at a 25-degree Turffontein, and a grey gelding simultaneously at a chilly 2-degree Thurles in County Tipperary in Ireland? That was the case when the Ridgemont bred Dynasty filly Poorlittlerichgirl registered her

second win from 4 starts, at her first outing on the Highveld. Leased from Ridgemont and racing in the Hollywood Syndicate silks, she found that little bit extra in the 1800m MR 90 handicap to win under Winning Form-sponsored jockey Kabelo Matsunyane. The Ridgemont-bred daughter of late legend Dynasty (Fort Wood) is trained by Brett Crawford. At the same time that the Crawford filly was flying home, Craig Kieswetter enjoyed the 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 67

pleasure of being on course to watch the Barnane Stud-Hollywood Syndicate owned Il Etait Temps, a Gr1 winner over the hurdles, win his 4100m chase debut at Thurles. The son of Jukebox Jury tracked the leader throughout before hitting the front with once fence left to jump. With a sustained effort he won comfortably by 4,5 lengths. The grey gelding was ridden to victory by Paul Townend and is trained by Willie Mullins.

The partnership enjoyed early success when Hollywood Syndicate celebrated a first Gr1 success courtesy of the Ridgemont-bred Make It Snappy -like Poorlittlerichgirl, a daughter of Dynasty – who won the 2022 WSB Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas. Make It Snappy went on to a sensational followup victory in the Cartier Gr1 Paddock Stakes just over a month later.

The double was available at around 10-1 on the books! The Hollywood-Ridgemont partnership was founded on a mutual quest to see horseracing prosper and grow.

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The classy grey bomber Il Etait Temps | Credit: Supplied

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Mrs G (Richard Fourie) Is Top Of The Tree | Credit: Candiese Lenferna 70 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

MRS G IS KZN BREEDERS HORSE OF THE YEAR The Clifton Stud-bred Equus champion Mrs Geriatrix walked away with two awards on Friday evening when the high-class daughter of Vercingetorix was crowned Horse Of The Year at the KZN Breeders Awards.

The annual gathering of the KZN Breeders to acknowledge their stars of the season past is always a high-spirited affair, and the event at the Nottingham Road Hotel saw the far flung ‘people of the paddock’ congregating to celebrate their champions. Our congratulations goes out to all the winners!

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HERE IS A LOOK AT THE FULL LIST OF CATEGORIES AND WINNERS:

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EUROPE’S MOST INFLUENTIAL BREEDING STOCK SALE v

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WORLD SPORTS BETTING GR1 CAPE FILLIES GUINEAS WINNER MOVES UP TO 117 BEACH BOMB has had her merit rating raised from 98 to 117 after producing an impressive finish to win the World Sports Betting Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas over 1600m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday 2 December 2023. The Handicappers believed that 3rd placed RASCOVA made for the most suitable line horse, leaving her unchanged on a mark of 110. SILVER SANCTUARY was adjusted to 115 from 107, the Handicappers were of the opinion that BEACH BOMB should be rated more than just 1 pound over SILVER SANCTUARY here as she had won easier than the official margin of 0.30. BEACH BOMB had turned for home in last

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place and had made up considerable ground in the straight while shifting inwards sharply from the 150m mark. SECRET IDENTITY, who finished 0.15 behind the 110 rated line horse, was adjusted to 108 from 94, this makes her equal to DISTANT WINTER who she beat here at level weights. Three fillies were given drops, CALA MURETTA and JUST BE LEKKER were both given drops

of 2 pounds each from 101 to 99 and 99 to 97 respectively, while FRANCINE received a 4 pounds drop from 98 to 94. World Sports Betting Green Point Stakes (Gr2) SEE IT AGAIN was adjusted to 132 from 131 after comfortably winning the World Sports Betting Gr2 Green Point Stakes over 1600m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday. The front running, ROYAL AUSSIE was deemed to be the most suitable line horse here, hence his unchanged rating of 118. In rating the race this way, AT MY COMMAND, achieved a rating of 124 and was accordingly adjusted from 114 to 124. The only horse to receive a drop was AL MUTHANA who dropped from 129 to 128. Southern Cross Stakes (Gr2) The well weighted KWINTA’S LIGHT produced a flying finish to land the Gr2 Southern Cross Stakes over 1000m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday. It was in fact the winner, KWINTA’S LIGHT, who was deemed to make the most suitable line horse and accordingly her rating remains unchanged on 109.

from a rating of 101, THREE ROCKS was adjusted from 104 to 109, OCTOBER MORN went up to 107 from 105, BALTIC SECRET was increased to 104 from 101 while BLUE HOLLY and CANDY TOWN were adjusted from 95 to 102 and 96 to 101 respectively. The only horse to receive a drop here was ONI SAN who was dropped by 1 pound from 98 to 97. Cape Summer Stayers Handicap (Listed) ARAGOSTA had his rating increased from 114 to 118 after emphatically winning the Cape Summer Stayers Handicap (Listed) over 2500m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday. The consistent stayer ONE WAY TRAFFIC was considered to be the most suitable line horse in this event and accordingly his rating remained unchanged on 106. There were no other increases to ratings in this race however, five horses received drops in ratings. OTTO LUYKEN and FIGHT SONG were dropped by 1 pound each from 101 to 100 and 91 to 90 respectively. SALVATOR MUNDI was dropped to 101 from 104, LINEBACKER was dropped from 110 to 108 and WITH PLEASURE was given a 5 pounds drop from 102 to 97.

Several horses received increases in ratings. • Press Release by the NHA on 05 December SHANTASTIC was adjusted to 108 after finished 2023 within 1 pound of the winner at level weights

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

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Candiese Lenferna captured this dramatic image of a gloomy Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday afternoon

NO ARGUING WITH MOTHER NATURE! The Ridgemont-bred Rafeef gelding William Robertson notched up a tenth career victory for top travelling trainer Corne Spies as Mother Nature came out with all guns blazing to bring an early end to the Hollywoodbets Scottsville racemeeting on Sunday. With lightning in the vicinity, hail stones half the size of golf balls were falling from the heavens 80 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

– and then the rain came as the eight-horse meeting was abbreviated to just six races. Gold Circle Racing Executive Raf Sheik told the Sporting Post that the light was fading fast during the running of the sixth race, and this fact is illustrated by the Judge’s light, which shone brightly across the track as the 5yo William Robertson made it three wins on the trot – his last two in quick succession in the KZN Capital City.

William Robertson is by Ridgemont’s top-class sire Rafeef (Redoute’s Choice), who enjoyed a top weekend. The gelding is out of the thrice winning Trippi mare Massachusetts and cost R500 000 on the BSA National 2yo Sale. William Robertson is now a winner of 10 races with 11 places from 31 starts for stakes of R1 799 750. Winning Form rider Richard Fourie was the top jockey on the afternoon, with a double that took his season tally to 108, as he extended his lead over nearest rival, Muzi Yeni. Raf Sheik confirmed that the headliner Non Black-Type River Indigo Handicap, and the abandoned last race, a fillies and mares MR 66 Handicap, would be rescheduled.

Sporting Post reader Cecil Pienaar kindly sent us this image of a hail stone found in the vicinity of Pietermaritzburg on Sunday | Credit: Supplied

Gavin Lerena steers William Robertson to his tenth victory | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

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West Wind Blows stretches out at Sha Tin | Credit: HKJC

WEST WIND BLOWS FOR UAE IN HONG KONG Not since 2010 has the UAE national anthem rung out over Sha Tin racecourse following one of the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races (HKIR). Aiming to plug that long gap this year in the LONGINES Hong Kong Vase (2400m) will be West Wind Blows, who has a historical connection on his side. Since the international races assumed their present form in 1999, the UAE is credited with four wins, by Fantastic Light and Ramonti in the Cup, in 2000 and 2007 respectively, by Firebreak in the 2004 Mile, and by Mastery in the 2010 Vase. All four were owned by Godolphin, trained by Saeed bin Suroor – making him the leading 84 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

overseas trainer on the HKIR all-time list – and ridden by Frankie Dettori. And their visits to Hong Kong were all managed by Simon Crisford, who jointly trains West Wind Blows with his son Ed. The difference from those previous successes is that West Wind Blows races under the Rabbah Bloodstock banner and will carry the distinctive black and yellow silks of UAE businessman Abdulla Al Mansoori. But the principal of the challenge remains the same and as Godolphin front-man in Great Britain

and Dubai for so many years, Crisford knows exactly what it takes to travel horses long distances.

quite some time, so we decided we should get to Hong Kong early,” he adds.

Speaking from Dubai, where he is supervising He says the four-year-old fits the bill perfectly, a team taking part in the new-look, seasonhence six of his last ten races have been long Carnival, Crisford says: “Ed, who’s there overseas from his usual UK base in Newmarket. with him, tells me he’s in good form. Just as “We identified him quite early on as a horse important, we’ve done some gate-schooling who could be a nice international type,” with him and Ed says he’s better at it, so Crisford explains, “and he’s proved a real fingers crossed.” professional at travelling. As he gets older, I’m sure he will get even better.” Crisford junior will be able to draw on expert advice with local knowledge in the final By Teofilo out of the French Oaks winner West stages of preparation, as former jockey Philip Wind, West Wind Blows was earmarked as Robinson is racing manager to West Wind being out of the ordinary almost from the start, Blows’ owner. Robinson rode in Hong Kong winning his two races before being thrown for six years from 1987, and in becoming into Classic company and running ninth in champion jockey in 1988-89 and 1989-90, he is the Derby. He continued on an upward curve, the only British rider to achieve the feat. but his biggest improvement has come after a gelding operation in May this year, since when Assessing West Wind Blows’ chance, Crisford he has been out of the first three only once in senior says: “A mile and a half is a good trip seven runs, the last three of which have for him, but he’s going to have to raise his been in Australia. game again. The Vase looks a deep race this year, and he’s got to find a few pounds against His lowest finish was ninth place in the horses that are rated higher than him, but we Champions Stakes at Flemington on his most think he is a horse who will continue to improve recent outing, after he had run a stormer mentally and physically.” previously when beaten a head by former stablemate Without A Fight in the Caulfield Having been ridden by Jamie Spencer in seven Cup. But Crisford rates that performance as “a of his last eight races, including at Flemington, blip”, where the finishing position did not tell West Wind Blows will have a new partner in the whole story of his race. James McDonald, who is on a short-term contract in Hong Kong.

He explains: “He had a slight tendency in his three races in Australia to be slowly out of the gates, and that worked against him on that occasion. We hadn’t planned for it to happen, but he’s none the worse for it.”

“James is a world-class jockey, a perfect fit for this horse,” Crisford says. “It will be an honour to represent the UAE with West Wind Blows. Let’s hope we pick up a piece of the pie.”

That West Wind Blows was among the first overseas arrival for the Hong Kong International Races was deliberate, Crisford says. “Hong Kong was always on our radar and he had been based at the Werribee training centre for 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 85

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Jack Kennedy was seen at his brilliant best aboard Teahupoo | Credit: Racing TV

TEAHUPOO TOO GAME FOR HOT FAVOURITE With racing abandoned on Saturday at Newcastle due to the weather, champion Constitution Hill’s seasonal reappearance was postponed. The remaining Group 1 was run at Fairyhouse on Sunday, the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, headlined by the seasonal return of last year’s Champion Novice hurdler Impaire Et Passe. The unbeaten Willie Mullins runner was having his first start out of novice company and eased in the betting at race-time from 4/7 to 4/5. The six-year-old Teahupoo who had ended the great mare Honeysuckle’s 16-race winning

sequence in this contest last season was the well backed 2/1 second favourite. Stable jockey Jack Kennedy was seen at his brilliant best aboard the year-older second favourite. First of all, despite the pace being slower than ideal for a proven stayer, Kennedy dropped his mount out so he could monitor the tactics of Paul Townend on the favourite. 6 DECEMBER 2023 | 87

He soon ascertained that Impaire Et Passe was racing in Townend’s hands, so after the second flight he advanced Teahupoo on to the favourite’s girth. Suddenly Townend’s job became a lot harder as Impaire Et Passe fought for his head. In contrast, Teahupoo was lobbing along calmly, and thereafter Kennedy never gave Townend a moment’s peace. When the pacemaker dropped away three out, Impaire Et Passe was left in front, and Kennedy could be seen hard at work on Teahupoo intent on staying right along-side the Mullins runner. In effect, making him race all the way home from four furlongs out. In a contest that should not have been run to suit Teahupoo, he manipulated matters in his

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favour, with his mount Teahupoo outstaying Impaire Et Passe to win by a length. “The plan is to go straight for the Stayers’ Hurdle now,” trainer Gordon Elliott confirmed. Kennedy certainly enjoyed it. He was animated crossing the line, knowing full well he had seized another major scalp. “Paul looked to be on it a bit and I was pushing him along a bit trying to make him do as much as he could,” he admitted. “I made sure I pressed him on early turning into the straight because my lad stays.” “I enjoy riding this lad,” he said. “He gave me a great day here last year and I got a great thrill out of this.”

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results up to: 2023-12-06

TRAINERS Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Other Places

Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

Mr S J Snaith

357

11.5

151

42.3

3,457,694

5,522,375

Mr M F de Kock

190

13.7

46.3

1,868,125

4,427,063

Mrs C L Bass-Robinson

230

13.5

102

44.3

3,020,938

4,231,763

Mr B J Crawford

262

12.2

37.4

2,386,319

3,726,731

Mr A P Peter

160

23.1

44.4

2,851,563

3,725,313

Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Other Places

Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

Mr R D Fourie

512

108

21.1

119

264

51.6

6,623,000

10,285,938

Mr M A Yeni

542

14.2

132

275

50.7

7,619,063

10,275,175

Mr G J Lerena

333

16.8

172

51.7

4,173,625

6,266,525

Mr C J Habib

419

11.5

163

38.9

3,257,500

4,897,075

Mr C Zackey

493

9.1

111

223

45.2

3,242,500

5,863,381

JOCKEYS

BREEDERS Name

Runrs Runs

AEPR

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

Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein

244

736

38,925

31.6

315

9,497,813

Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)

139

379

67,127

33.8

164

9,330,606

Klawervlei Stud

191

571

28,106

25.7

225

5,368,225

Varsfontein Stud

117

366

43,288

23.9

149

5,064,669

Ridgemont Highlands

111

318

35,287

27.9

130

3,916,881

Name

Runrs Runs

AEPR

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

Gimmethegreenlight (AUS)

167

446

37,729

21.6

203

6,300,663

Pathfork (USA)

168

109,334

44.2

5,685,375

Vercingetorix

150

397

35,723

29.3

149

5,358,375

Master Of My Fate

151

465

34,997

29.1

198

5,284,488

Querari (GER)

145

440

35,440

28.3

193

5,138,800

SIRES

See all the detailed standings - Click here 90 | 6 DECEMBER 2023

6 DECEMBER 2023 | 91