SP SPRINT - WEDNESDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2023

JET POWER!

BREEDERS CLAMBER FOR JET TRAVEL!

Jet Dark stretches in his paddock at Drakenstein|

Credit: Drakenstein Stud

‘What Jet Dark brings to the table is an outstanding race record, a fine physique, and a grand international pedigree’

“Seldom has a first-season stallion attracted such a fine first book of mares as has Jet Dark.”

That’s the opinion of Jonathan Snaith, who manages the multiple champion with the assistance of Kevin Sommerville of Drakenstein Stud.

That the stud’s latest addition to its stallion roster has received the thumbs up from the country’s breeders, is evident from the demand for his services.

That much was confirmed by Jono: “Such is his popularity that the horse was completely oversubscribed. We received 200 applications from mare owners and finally settled on 110.”

A monument to all the best qualities of the modern thoroughbred, Jet Dark was a multiple champion at both three and four, he raced sound over four seasons and scored five times at Gr1 level. Twice a winner of both the Gr1 L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate and Champions Cup, he went out in a blaze of glory in the Gr1 Cape Town Met.

Like many of his followers, trainer Justin Snaith was sad to see the horse retired immediately after his Met victory, believing he had a few Gr1’s left in the tank. Be that as it may, what Jet Dark brings to the table is an outstanding race record, a fine physique, and a grand international pedigree.

He combines all the best attributes of two of the most potent stallions of recent time, his sire Trippi and broodmare sire Jet Master, whilst his impressive female line is that of French Derby and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner, Peintre Celebre, who became a successful stallion in his own right.

No stud master worth his salt could ask for more.

Examining the finer details of Jet Dark’s introductory book of mares shows that

Drakenstein will support him to the hilt.

Gaynor Rupert has set aside 23 of the stud’s broodmares, and it’s a truly jaw dropping list which reads like the proverbial who’s who.

Among the home names are several who have already clicked with the Jet Dark’s own sire Trippi, none more so than newly crowned Broodmare of the Year Demanding Lady, the dam of Champion Miler and Three-year-old Charles Dickens and his stakes-performed full brothers Charles and Somerset Maugham.

Also on the list are the stakes winning dams of Trippi’s Gr1 winners Chimichuri Run (Spiced Gold), Sound Of Warning (Siren’s Call) and Sweet Pepper (Green Pepper).

Add to that former Horse of the Year Oh Susanna and the champion racemares Beach Beauty (who has been represented by Trippi’s Gr2 winners Wild Coast and Amanzimtoti) and Lady In Black, as well as the Gr1 winners Ash Cloud, Chestnuts N Pearls and Snowdance.

As befits his status, Jet Dark will be used by a broad cross-section of other leading breeding operations. Lammerskraal Stud will support him with four well-related mares which include Premier Dance, a Gr3-placed daughter of Broodmare of the Year Akinfeet; stakes producer Furina, an own sister to Gr1 winner and producer Laverna; and Jet Master’s stakes winning daughter Gathering Fame (interesting inbreeding!).

Erstwhile manager Sally Bruss, who describes Jet Dark as ‘an impressive specimen’, has booked her Western Winter mare Izora, a Gr3placed own sister to the dam of the dual Gr1 winner Make It Snappy.

Other breeders who will support Jet Dark include Boland Stud, La Plaisance Stud, Riverton Stud and Narrow Creek Stud.

Not surprisingly, Jet Dark popularity extends as far afield as KwaZulu-Natal, with Clifton Stud having earmarked the young stallion for

Varnilla Sky, a young Var mare from the esteemed family of Gr1 winners August Rush and Tempting Fate.

Seldom do the stars align in one horse and assured of a quality first book of mares, Jet Dark’s breeding career could be the start of something special.

Trainer Justin Snaith described Jet Dark as “a gentleman, an easy horse to handle”, traits confirmed by Drakenstein Stud Manager Gavin Pickford, who remarked: “Jet Dark has now covered 8 mares over the first 4 days of covering and his attitude and temperament have not changed. He is still a gentleman to handle and listens to his groom Schedrick, who has taught all our stallions when they first arrive at the farm. He has that youthful enthusiasm, but is a pleasure to handle.”

Eye on the prize! Jet Dark has all the attributes to make it as a stallion |

Credit: Drakenstein Stud

Happy snappy! Ridgemont’s Wayne Kieswetter, Joy Armitage, Anthony Delpech, Gwen McGregor & Brett Crawford | Credit: Wayne Marks

A CELEBRATION OF SUPERSTARS

The right time for a review of the Equus process may have been highlighted in no uncertain terms when the Ridgemontbred Dynasty filly Make It Snappy was crowned Champion 3yo Filly in both the racing and breeding sections of the Cape Racing and Cape Breeders Awards at a festive function at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse on Friday night. This was a celebration of the Cape’s superstars and the benefit of the hindsight power of the results are not intended as an Equus bashing exercise.

But the jury has been out on the Equus process of the combination of a points and panel system, coupled with the undisclosed quantum of a public vote,

that saw a few surprise results, amongst others, Bless My Stars, gain the national champion 3yo filly title over the only dual Gr1 winning filly of last season, Make It Snappy, in Johannesburg on 23 August.

Equus Awards count as value-changers for breeders and owners, and when results don’t make sense, it detracts from the credibility of what should be the ultimate accolade in SA horseracing.

In the inevitably simplified environs of a more peer-driven process at the Cape Regional Awards, the Hollywood Syndicate-raced Make It Snappy, who won the Gr1 WSB Cape Fillies Guineas and then beat four Gr1 winning older horses in the Gr1 Cartier Paddock Stakes, including Equus Horse Of The

Champions! Varsfontein’s Carl de Vos, Joy Armitage, Carolyn and Jaco Erasmus | Credit: Wayne Marks

Year Captain’s Ransom, came out ahead of the Varsfontein Stud-bred Gimmethegreenlight filly Bless My Stars, who won the Gr 1 Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Classic and the Gr 2 Riding High Together Gold Bracelet.

Bless My Stars, a top filly, also finished third in the Hollywoodbets Durban July, a ‘super Grade 1’ in the Equus hierarchy.

Drakenstein were again to the fore on the evening in both sections of the awards, and celebrated six trophies in the racing section, highlighted by the exciting dual Equus star Charles Dickens’ Horse of The Year accolade.

In the breeders’ section, the Rupert

operation picked up nine awards, including Breeder of The Year and Special Achievement for the outstanding Trippi.

The Sean Tarry-trained Maine Chance Farms-bred Flower Alley mare Princess Calla, who was deservedly installed SA Horse of The Year at Equus, repeated the award in the breeder’s section.

Princess Calla won three Gr1’s last term over distances ranging from 1200m to 1800m. The two against the girls, over 1200m and 1600m respectively, were both weight for age events. She took on the boys in the open WFA Gr1 HKJC World Pool Champions Cup over 1800m and won that easily.

Workrider Coach Craig du Plooy with champion Siphiwo Feni | Credit: Wayne Marks

Dean Kannemeyer won three awards, courtesy of Khaya Stables’ Gimme A Prince (Champion Sprinter in both sections) and Rafeef colt Outlaw King, Juvenile Male of the year. Passionate DK Syndicate member Martin Holland travelled all the way from Wiltshire in England to attend the event!

Interestingly, Varsfontein’s Lucky Lad got the vote over Equus hero Sandringham Summit, from the same farm, in the Cape Breeders Champion 2-Year-Old Colt category.

Richard Fourie and Justin Snaith were crowned champion jockey and trainer respectively, and now that the power duo have gone their separate ways, as Fourie chases the national title, that race becomes interesting in the season ahead.

The talented Joshwin Solomons’ solitary winner last season saw him crowned Cape Champion Apprentice for the third consecutive year. In his first season Solomons won the title with 20 winners, the next with 3, and now 1 winner earns the trophy. This award probably needs a relook as apprentice jockeys really don’t ride much in the Cape.

The inaugural Hollywoodbets Workriders Series winner, and James Maree graduate, Siphiwo Feni was the Work Rider champion.

Cape Racing Chairman Greg Bortz, bordering on the controversial in a positive way, but focussing on equine welfare, got the tongues wagging and received a solid round of applause for his address. But more on that soon.

CAPE RACING AWARDS

Juvenile Male: Outlaw King

Juvenile Female: Winter Cloud

3yo Colt: Charles Dickens

3yo Filly: Make It Snappy

Older Male: Gimme A Prince

Older Female: Marina

Champion Sprinter: Gimme A Prince

Champion Miler: Charles Dickens

Champion Middle Distance: Jet Dark

Champion Stayer: Salvator Mundi

Work Rider: Mr S H Feni

Champion Apprentice: Mr J M Solomons

Champion Jockey: Richard Fourie

Champion Trainer: Justin Snaith

Owner of The Year: Drakenstein Stud

(Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)

Horse of The Year: Charles Dickens

Cape Racing’s Robyn Collyer and Champion apprentice Joshwin Solomons | Credit: Wayne Marks

Brett Crawford, Hollywood Syndicate’s Anthony Delpech and Justin Vermaak | Credit: Wayne Marks

CAPE BREEDERS AWARDS

Champion 2-Year-Old Colt: Lucky Lad (Varsfontein)

Champion 2-Year-Old Filly: Winter Cloud (Drakenstein Stud)

Champion 3-Year-Old Colt: Charles Dickens (Drakenstein Stud)

Champion 3-Year-Old Filly: Make It Snappy (Ridgemont Highlands)

Champion Older Male: Gimme A Prince (Khaya Stables)

Ridgemont Highlands: Princess Calla (Maine Chance Farms)

Champion Sprinter: Gimme A Prince (Khaya Stables)

Stayer of the Year: Future Pearl (Drakenstein)

Champion Middle Distance: See It Again (Drakenstein)

Broodmare of the Year: Demanding Lady (Drakenstein)

Outstanding Breeder: Drakenstein

Stallion of the Year: Gimmethegreenlight

Outstanding New Stallion: Lancaster Bomber

Breeder of The Year: Drakenstein

Horse of The Year: Princess Calla

Special Achievement Award: Trippi

Paarl trainer Glen Kotzen makes a serious point at the festive function on Friday evening |

Credit: Wayne Marks

Stars! Greg Bortz, Carl de Vos, Justin Vermaak, Justin Snaith & John Freeman |

Credit: Wayne Marks

WINDS OF CHANGE BORTZ STYLE!

As the sun set on 2022, Greg Bortz was the selection for our final Sprint cover of 2022, and thus our Newsmaker Of The Year. It looks like the Cape Racing Chairman is a short-priced favourite to register the double!

His ‘Winds Of Change’ speech at Friday evening’s Cape Racing and Breeding Awards has the entire industry talking, with something of a North and South divide forming.

In December last year Bortz said that he was very flattered to receive the accolade, but that recent history didn’t speak too highly of newsmakers.

“If one looks back, the newsmakers have hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons – from the capture of racing and Business Rescue, and the rest. And frankly the last thing I want is to be in the spotlight. There is no upside in my world to being placed on a pedestal or a perch.

And that’s genuine – no false humility! I have been under the radar all my life and I prefer to do what Owen Heffer does – that is, rather to be the Wizard Of Oz behind the curtain,” said the man some call ‘the executioner’, for all the right reasons, of course!

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Greg Bortz – facing the doubters head on! |

Credit: Wayne Marks

4RACING NHA ASSURANCE

Charles Savage, Chairman of 4Racing advises that in response to the speech delivered by Mr. Greg Bortz, the Executive Chairman of Cape Racing, on September 1, 2023, at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse, during which he mentioned the potential barring of certain stakeholders from participating in races at Kenilworth and Durbanville racecourses: Executive management, senior leadership and stakeholders of 4Racing have received numerous enquiries regarding the veracity of Mr. Bortz’s statement.

In light of the above, a meeting was convened between Mr. Charles Savage, Chairman of 4Racing, Mr. Patrick Duff, Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Gabriel Soma, Head of Racing Operations and Mr. Vee Moodley, the CEO of The National Horseracing Authority. This meeting followed a telephonic discussion between Mr. Moodley and 4Racing’s CEO, Fundi Sithebe, to gain clarity on Mr. Bortz’s comments.

Mr. Moodley affirmed that his stance on the matter had been conveyed to the 4Racing Executive team prior to the speech and remains unchanged:

“Any horses barred from entering any racing jurisdiction in the country cannot be excluded based on NHA rules, unless such action originates from the NHA itself.”

Furthermore, the NHA has requested that operators enhance security measures in the presaddling enclosures. This initiative is currently in progress and is expected to be completed within the month.

4Racing remains wholeheartedly committed to the NHA and comprehends the significance of upholding the integrity and legitimacy of the sport. This commitment is exemplified by our continued substantial support for the regulator while refraining from interfering with its processes.

SUMMER REIGN FORECAST FOR NOVEMBER

Tickets for the Highveld’s hottest horseracing event, the R5 million Betway Summer Cup, are now on sale as Joburg gears up for a sizzling race day at Turffontein Racecourse on Saturday 25 November 2023.

‘SUMMER REIGN’ is the theme for this year’s event, with leading global online betting and gaming brand Betway and 4Racing doubling the stakes this year for what is one of Africa’s richest and most eagerly-anticipated race days.

The Betway Summer Cup is above all the ‘People’s Race’ – with the theme chosen this year after a popular public call for entries.

For the serious punters or the casual social race day visitors, the 2023 Betway Summer Cup and the ‘Summer Reign’ theme is your chance to ‘own your Joburg Summer’ in your own unique way, to let your hair down and have fun at the ultimate Jozi end of year bash! The 2023 Betway Summer Cup is a racing and entertainment spectacle like no other, with all the bells and whistles, plenty of adrenaline, high-quality horse racing and a fun day of entertainment, hospitality and partying to usher in the Joburg festive season, with tickets on

sale at Ticketpro today starting at just R100.

“The Summer Cup is the big one on the Highveld horseracing calendar and with the fantastic support of Betway we are really upping the ante this year, with record stakes of R5 million for this prestigious race. For owners and trainers there is now an even bigger incentive to enter the country’s leading thoroughbreds and to reign at the Betway Summer Cup and for jockeys and grooms there is the prestige of winning one of South African horseracing’s big three major races.

And of course, for punters this is a massive racing day, with big pools and top-quality, competitive racing throughout the day, so get your tickets early and join us for what is sure to be a sensational Betway Summer Cup this year,” said 4Racing CEO Fundi Sithebe. Not only have the stakes been increased, but Betway have also introduced a major incentive

for all the Grooms of the horses in the final field of this year’s Betway Summer Cup.

“The Betway Summer Cup in many ways is the highlight of the Highveld racing season. We all know the importance of the Grooms and as a reward for their many days and hours of hard work spent Betway will be giving each Groom of a thoroughbred who makes the final field in this year’s Betway Summer Cup a R20 000 bonus,” Betway’s Jonathan Blumberg announced today.

On the ‘Summer Reign – You Rule!’ theme Sithebe said she was excited to see how racegoers would interpret the theme and make it their own.

“The 2023 Betway Summer Cup gives everyone the chance to reign on the Turffontein track this summer. So, dress up and be bold with your race day colours. If going black is your superpower, you want to power dress or light up the day in all white or in your bright colours and African prints – go for it, do whatever makes you feel powerful and strong and makes you reign like Kings and Queens this Jozi Summer. We can’t wait to host you at Turffontein for the Betway Summer Cup,” concluded Sithebe.

Tickets are available from today at Ticketpro for just R100 for adults and R50 for kids under 12 and are available on the www. betwaysummercup.co.za website.

Tickets for a trackside private outdoor beer garden are available for R495 ex VAT, with music and seating and a cash bar and food vendors for a festive race day experience.

Hospitality packages are also available on the Turffontein Racecourse Deck and Elevation Room for R2 000 and in the Centenary and Aquanaut Rooms for R2 500, all of which includes a fully inclusive food, evening snacks and drinks package with a selection of local beers and drinks.

MAJESTIC LEAP FOR QUANTUM THEORY

Smanga Khumalo gets Quantum Theory home to beat the forward galloping Sheldon |

Credit: JC Photos

Having his fourth run since gelding, and with his form on an upward curve, the Querari gelding Quantum Theory scored an overdue maiden stakes success with an eyecatching victory in the R250 000 Listed Betway Spring Spree Stakes at Turffontein on Saturday.

The first Betway-sponsored raceday on the Highveld saw stakes increased from R175 000 to R250 000 for the early season launch feature and produced some terrific racing, with Smanga Khumalo finding his form and booting home three winners, to take his season tally to 11.

The Bling treble was topped by a finely judged ride on the 9-2 shot Quantum Theory, who went in and then out, before going to the inside rail again to catch the free-striding Sheldon (5-1) and win by a half length in a time of 71,34 secs.

Texas Red (16-1) from the Robyn Klaasen yard ran a better race to boost the trifecta in fourth.

“I knew that Sheldon would have to be really good to keep that up in front, and Quantum Theory finished full of running. I’d like to tell

my Agent Monty (Mariemuthoo) to stick with him. He’s a lovely horse,” added Bling, before saluting with his customary ‘whoop whoop’.

Raced by Ian van Schalkwyk and Anton Marx, the winner is a Lammerskraal Stud-bred son of Querari (Oasis Dream) out of the eight-time winning Control Freak (Tamburlaine).

A R210 000 National Yearling Sale graduate, Quantum Theory is a winner of 3 races with 8 places from 12 starts for stakes of R507 625.

Tickets for the R5 million Betway Summer Cup will go on sale shortly and the day’s theme is ‘Summer Reign’.

A lovely touch announced today is that the Groom of every runner in the 2023 Betway Summer Cup will receive a cheque of R20 000!

72 UP!

KZN champion trainer Garth Puller celebrated his 72nd birthday on Sunday.

The Sporting Post wishes Garth all of the very best and many, many more!

Credit: Candiese Lenferna

QUETENA LEGACY GROWS

The majestic Querari at Maine Chance | Credit: Freeman Stallions

Maine Chance Farms’ resident Querari made headlines at Turffontein on Saturday; with sons Quantum Theory and Sheldon finishing first and second in the Listed Betway Spring Spree Stakes. One of South Africa’s consistently successful sires, Querari is out of the mare Quetena, who continues to make her presence felt through her growing list of high-class descendants.

In recent events, Quetena’s six-year old grandson, Spirit Dancer (Frankel) won the Gr3, Sky Bet and Symphony Group Strensall Stakes at York, making this a hatrick of wins. Partowned by Sir Alex Ferguson, the gelding could be focusing on the Bahrain Trophy later in the year.

Queen’s Dream (Oasis Dream) is a full-sister to Listed Doncaster Mile winner, Sharja Bridge and the prominent Cape stallion Querari.

The twice Leading Sire of 2yo’s in South Africa, had another memorable season in 2022-2023. Querari’s five stakes winners last season including Gr1 Douglas Whyte Thekwini Stakes winner Bavarian Beauty, Champion Juvenile Cup hero Questor, and Somerset 1200 victor Underworld.

A winner of the Gr1 Premio Presidente della Repubblica and Germany’s Champion Older Horse of 2010, Querari has been responsible for 35 stakes winners thus far, including the Gr1 winning Equus Champion Rio Querari, among others.

Despite suffering from well documented fertility problems, Querari’s half-brother Quasillo (Sea the Stars) has also made his mark on the South African turf.

From just 30 registered foals, this chestnut, was responsible for Gr2 Zulu Kingdom Explorer, Golden Slipper/Gr3 Strelitzia Stakes winner Ameena, and Quasiforsure.

The latter finished second to subsequent Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July winner Winchester Mansion in last season’s Gr3 Hollywoodbets Dolphins Cup Trial, and grabbed a controversial second in the 2023 Listed Gordon’s Gin Jet Master Stakes.

Quetena ranks as the granddam of the very useful Quinault, an Oasis Dream three-parts brother to the aforementioned Querari. The 3yo bay gelding reeled off six wins in a row before finishing third most recently in the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Sprint.

Quinault was produced by Quetena’s Dansili sired non-racing daughter Queimada. Another daughter of Quetena, Quidura, enjoyed success in July of this year when her threeyear-old son Jeff Koons (Frankel) won a novice stakes at Newmarket. Sired by Dubawi, Quidura was a top-class racemare who won all of the Gr2 Ballston Spa Stakes, Gr2 Canadian Stakes and Gr3 Valley View Stakes, during a career campaigned in Canada, Germany and the US.

Quidura was unlucky not to win a Gr1 race, and finished second, beaten just a head by the outstanding Lady Eli (Divine Park), in the 2017 Gr1 Diana Stakes.

Quetena, daughter of dual German champion Quebrada, won three times and finished second in the Listed Premio Archidamia. Safe to say, however, she has really made a name for herself at stud.

IRISH NATIONAL STUD THOROUGHBRED BREEDING MANAGEMENT SCHOLARSHIP

The world-renowned Irish National Stud Thoroughbred Breeding Management Course is a six-month residential programme which is designed to provide learners with a hands-on approach to every feature of Thoroughbred Breeding. The programme which commences in January each year runs for the duration of the breeding season and equips learners with the knowledge, skills and competence required to perform effectively in responsible positions in the thoroughbred industry.

Application Requirements

·Scholarship is open to any person between 20 and 30 years of age

·Have obtained the National Senior Certificate

·Be a citizen of South Africa

·Be currently working in the thoroughbred industry

Scholarship provides the successful candidate with:

·Return economy airfare

·Course fees (€6,000)

·Accommodation & meals

·Uniform

·Travel insurance

·Training allowance

Applicants must apply to the Irish National Stud before October 1st, 2023

https://irishnationalstud.ie/thoroughbred-breeding-course-application-form/ For further information: https://irishnationalstud.ie/thoroughbred-breeding-management/

ATTENTION BOOKIES: GET INVOLVED

The wide-reaching influence and substantial contribution by some Bookmakers to horseracing was underlined in the fifth race at Turffontein on Saturday, the R75 000 Betway Boost MR 75 Handicap, when the Hollywood Syndicate-owned Trois Trois Quatre won a race sponsored by Betway, with World Sports Betting providing the Groom’s incentive of R1 500. Trois Quatre won a race sponsored by Betway, with World Sports Betting providing the Groom’s incentive of R1 500.

Winning trainer Mike de Kock with his assistant trainer David Dlamini and winning jockey JP van der Merwe Credit: JC Photos

Groom Godfrey Malizani received his cheque and was clearly delighted as he thanked Betway, who just become involved in the spring and summer season on the Highveld and in the Eastern Cape, as well as WSB and Hollywoodbets, encouraging all Bookmakers to get involved in racing.

Countrywide, Grooms benefit from bookmakersponsored cash incentives, with all three firms involved in race sponsorship. Beyond a powerful string of horses nationally, Hollywood have taken the involvement and support of SA horseracing to another level, with direct investment in Cape and KZN horseracing. Mike de Kock complimented the Hollywood Syndicate for their patience with Trois Trois Quatre, who he labelled ‘a progressive horse’.

“He had a few niggles and we chatted to Anthony Delpech and threw him out for a break. He has come back a different horse. A trainer’s job is difficult enough, and when you have owners working against you, then it’s more difficult. We can get the best out of horses

when owners are with us, as in this case. As for the strength of it, I don’t get too excited about winter form, but he is better than a 76 or 77, and certainly a good handicapper.”

The progressive Rafeef gelding’s name is French for three three four (334), which is the record number of wins by a jockey in a SA racing season, which was set by Anthony Delpech almost 25 years ago. French goes back to the Hollywood Syndicate Racing Manager’s roots in the Seychelles. With only eight starts under the belt, the Wilgerbosdrift and Mauritzfontein-bred Trois Trois Quatre made it three wins on the trot since shedding his maiden at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on 19 July.

He was given a professional ride by Bryanston Auctioneers-sponsored JP van der Merwe, who became a Dad for the first time when daughter Valentina arrived on Friday afternoon. Congratulations to JP and Abbi, as well as Oupa Gavin and Granny Marilyn Smith down in Gqeberha.

Bright Blue Sky breaks the ice under Anthony Andrews | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

GARETH’S BRIGHT BLUE CAPE SKY!

With aspirations of becoming a leading yard in the province, newly sponsored Hollywoodbets trainer Gareth van Zyl opened his Cape season account with a bang from his brand new Milnerton satellite yard at Hollywoodbets Durbanville last Wednesday, courtesy of the aptly named Bright Blue Sky.

It could not have been a better start with two seconds and a win with his first five runners, even if the 50-1 odds about the clearly smart gelding may have caught some punters flat-footed!

The 36 year old horseman, a son of champion jockey and successful trainer Gavin van Zyl, is juggling the demands of family and professional life, and is currently travelling between Summerveld and Milnerton, with the intention of making the Cape his permanent home.

Supported by his wife Kirsten and children

Dallin and Gracie - Lee, the move is a major decision, but what he considers a vital one for growth, for the young professional.

He says that the decision to relocate was motivated by the way racing has been rejuvenated by Greg Bortz and Hollywoodbets down South.

“They have injected more stakes and have incentives. I also enjoy the racing experience there. And importantly, it is very customer friendly.”

Gareth says that his plan is to have a successful yard based at Summerveld and at Milnerton.

“It is appealing in the way in which Cape Racing has breathed a newness of enthusiasm and possibility into racing. They are applying themselves to the betterment of racing, in a way which I haven’t previously witnessed in South Africa. I feel that it is in Gareth van Zyl racing’s best interests, to be a part of the movement.”

Can he compete and win in what is the toughest racing region in South Africa?

“That’s the perception, but we did alright there with our string in the season and I think if we take the right horses for the right races, we will do alright. I think it’s tougher in the higher divisions, but we’ll be competitive.”

Gareth proudly told the Sporting Post that he has set up powerful teams in both regions.

“Summerveld is headed up by my Dad with Megan Trot and the vastly experienced Terry Fripp as assistants. The seasoned Spencer Cook is my right-hand man down at Milnerton.”

He beams when he tells the Sporting Post about the core growth of his foundation unit of Grooms and Work-riders.

“Through internal promotions and incentives we have grown and developed a world-class

team of grooms and workriders, which have become a part of our DNA. This is a team effort from gun to tape. And our staff are integral to our success.”

He is also excited about having joined the Hollywoodbets family in August.

“The positive impact which Hollywoodbets has made on the South African racing industry is immense, and I am confident that my association with them, which allows me to see a little further into the mechanism of their mighty operation, will further enlighten, inspire, and even empower me to reach greater heights.”

On the general health of the game, Gareth frowns as he points out that the challenges that face racing globally are ‘self apparent’.

“But as long as we have open-minded and dynamic leadership, I will remain optimistic. After all, in an evolving world, there aren’t many industries that don’t have their specific challenges. But very few have a Mr Heffer, a Mr Bortz or a Mrs Slack to bail them out! It’s now or never, and I’m buckled up and ready for the ride!” he enthused.

And on his big horses for the season? Watch this space. More to follow!

Gareth – smiling! | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Gareth with Brentford’s Chairman Jon Varney | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

STALLIONS 2023

CANFORD CLIFFS R20,000 (LIVE FOAL)

MALMOOS R25,000 (LIVE FOAL)

NEW PREDATOR R12,500 (LIVE FOAL)

PATHFORK R5,000 (LIVE FOAL)

POTALA PALACE R5,000 (LIVE FOAL)

RAFEEF R70,000 (R20,000 UP FRONT + R50,000 LIVE FOAL)

REAL GONE KID

FEE ON APPLICATION

TRADITION OF CHAMPIONS

A FAIR DAY FOR FAIRVIEW FEATURE SPOILS

Flower Of Saigon charges clear under Smanga Khumalo |

Credit: Pauline Herman

With the top-class Santa Therese failing to put her best foot forward, it was left to another Flower Alley mare to step up to the podium in the R200 000 Listed Betway Insurebet Jockey Club Stakes at Fairview on Friday.

Alan Greeff’s Santa Therese was going for what would have been a record-breaking third straight victory in the feature, but after being given every chance by Richard Fourie, she failed to produce her customary kick off a sedentary pace and it was fellow 6yo Flower Of Saigon (7-1) who shot clear late in the 2000m contest to deservedly register her first stakes success.

Saddled by Paarl-based Glen Kotzen, Flower Of Saigon was ridden by Smanga Khumalo and given a confident ride from three lengths off the pace.

Often placed in the Cape in decent mixed sex staying company, Flower Of Saigon clocked 125,46 secs and beat the 25-1 First Street by 4,50 lengths.

Power combination Richard Fourie and Alan Greeff will be looking for a feature victory at Fairview on Friday when the Flower Alley 6yo will be bidding for a record-breaking third consecutive victory in the R200 000 Listed Betway Insurebet Jockey Club Stakes.

The lesser fancied of the Snaith duo, Double Check (14-1) was a further quarter length back in third, with Santa Therese (33-10) running into fourth a neck away, but out of the Place Accumulator.

The winner is raced by staunch Cape racing supporters Gisela Burg and Martin Wickens, who were associated with some top sorts

with Joey Ramsden in bygone years. Here we remember the likes of Catalina, Golden Corn and Major Bluff, to remember a few.

Bred by the owners’ Wickensburg Stud, the winner is a daughter of Travers Stakes winner Flower Alley, sire of, among others, South Africa’s reigning Horse Of The Year Princess Calla, and who enjoyed a double at the Vaal on Thursday.

Flower Alley, whose runners have earned more than $46 000 000 in prize money, is currently

sixth on the South African General Sires List.

The winner is out of the Captain Al four-time winner Miss Saigon, who was also raced by the same owners.

Flower Of Saigon has now won 4 races with 19 places from 32 starts and stakes of R493 625. Fourth-placed Santa Therese has been retired to stud.

The next Fairview racemeeting is on 8 September 2023.

JANSE VAN VUUREN OPENS AT MILNERTON

Johan Janse Van Vuuren, who enjoyed a career-best 5th place on the South African National Trainers Log in the 2022/3 season with 79 winners and R10,95 million in gross stake earnings, has opened a satellite training base at Milnerton, Western Cape.

Janse van Vuuren will be filling 15 boxes to start, supported by his leading patron, Laurence Wernars and other owners in the yard. He will be assisted by Elbert Steyn, who has extensive experience following a spell as an assistant trainer in Saudi Arabia and several years working alongside his father, veteran trainer Piet Steyn.

Four horses have already moved into the yard, including three purchased by Wernars at the 2023 Cape Premier Yearling Sale, and Janse van Vuuren commented: “Our decision to start a satellite base followed Laurence’s acquisition of three high-quality colts at the Premier Sale in January. They qualify for the first running of the Cape Racing Sales Slipper.

“The first one was Lot 13, a lovely Klawervlei-bred colt by Gimmethgreenlight out of a half-sister to Willliam Longsword. Then there was Lot 56, a beautiful grey by Querari, a half-brother to Master Archie from Winterbach Stud and Lot 95, a Vercingetorix out of Starburst Galaxy from Avontuur Stud. They were the backbone of our plans. We wanted their base in Cape Town instead of relocating them and then travelling in from Johannesburg.”

The stable purchased a pair of two-yearolds at last week’s BSA August sale. They will also be moved to Milnerton with a few others from existing clients, already in training at Turffontein.

Janse van Vuuren concluded: “We are excited about this venture and look forward to competing in the Cape for the increased prize money, especially for the Two-YearOld Series races, which will attract my more precocious young horses.”

FORMER CHAMPION FRESHMAN TO HEVERSHAM PARK

Jet Master stallion Pomodoro, South Africa’s leading freshman sire of 2017/18, has left Klawervlei Stud to join the Riley family’s Heversham Park Farm in the Daleside Valley of South Gauteng.

Now 16 years of age, the former Durban July winner completes a formidable band of stallions for Heversham, who now have three of the country’s most prominent bloodlines available to breeders in Jackson (Dynasty), Capetown Noir (Western Winter) and Pomodoro (Jet Master). They also stand Duke Of Marmalade’s best sprinting son, Moofeed (AUS).

The move follows a dwindling of support for Pomodoro in the Western Cape and Heversham Park’s long-term objective to make the best available stallions available to breeders

upcountry, re-establishing the region as a good centre for breeding thorougbreds.

John Koster of Klawervlei commented: “Pomodoro is a real man, as fertile as they come. He can service 10 mares a day, he’s a great stallion to work with and keeps himself in shape.

“There is every reason to believe he can produce many more top quality runners in time to come. He has sired a Gr1 winning colt and filly and upgrades his mares.

The handsome Pomodoro (Jet Master ex Golden Apple) | Credit: Supplied

Both Return Flight and Cirillo, for example, were born from weak mares.

“We’re hoping breeders will support Pomodoro, he has all the blood and ability needed and his stud record is good, having sired 5% stakeswinning colts and 4% stakes-winning fillies.”

As a racehorse, Pomodoro excelled at the highest levels. He was talented and versatile and won from 1160m to 2450m in a career which saw him win or place in six Gr1 races.

He scored the signature win of his career when landing the 2012 Gr1 Vodacom Durban July in a field which included champion Beach Beauty (Dynasty), as well as such notable Gr1 winners as Solo Traveller (Western Winter), English Garden (Camden Park), Pierre Jourdan (Parade Leader), Top Seller (Al Mufti), and Jackson (Dynasty).

Pomodoro also dead-heated for first place in the 2012 Gr1 SA Derby, where he shared the spoils with Royal Bencher (Greys Inn) and accounted for subsequent Gr1 Sansui Summer Cup winner Wagner (Tiger Ridge).

The versatile bay also notched up wins in the Gr3 Tony Ruffel Stakes and Listed KZN Guineas Trial and went down just a head to Slumdogmillionaire (Strike Smartly) in the 2012 Gr1 SA Classic.

In total, Pomodoro won or placed in 17 of his 24 outings and earned over R3.7 million in stakes.

Exceptionally well related, he is by a Champion Sire out of a Broodmare Of The Year by a Champion Sire and Broodmare Sire. He is out of now deceased Broodmare Of The Year and former Gr2 Gosforth Park Fillies Guineas winner Golden Apple (Northern Guest).

Pomodoro is from the same family as one of history’s greatest sires in the form of triple US champion Danzig (Northern Dancer), whose numerous top class performers include

the outstanding sires Danehill, Green Desert, and War Front.

Pomodoro’s sired 15 stakes winners in his first three crops. His initial crop was headed by Equus Champion Return Flight, whose four graded victories included both the Gr1 Thekwini Stakes (at two) and the Gr1 Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Classic the following year. She was voted Equus Champion 2 year old filly.

Pomodoro’s first crop also produced the top-class colt Cirillo, winner of the Gr2 Hawaii Stakes who earned over R5-million in prize money as well as Storm Bird Stakes runner up, Royal Italian. His second crop featured 2020 Gr1 World Sports Betting Summer Cup contender Cornish Pomodoro, Gr2 WSB Camellia Stakes winner Golden Belle and Listed Secretariat Stakes winner Leopold.

From the later progeny came the grey Russian Rock, who surprised all and sundry with his beating of Linebacker, Rascallion, Jet Dark and Malmoos in the 2019 Gr1 Cape Guineas; Listed winner Carulluma and Graded and Listed placed Epsom Girl, Indlamu, Social Image, Putontheredlight, Usuaia, Barzalona, Black Thorn, Woodland Retreat and others.

Heversham Park are offering a super value introductory service offer of R2500 (live foal), on Pomodoro this breeding season.

Mail nigel@hevershampark.co.za to book, or phone 063 604 4701.

THE WEEKEND MERITS

Quantum Theory has had his merit rating raised from 107 to 114 after winning the Listed Betway Spring Spree Stakes (handicap) over 1200m on the Turffontein inside track on Saturday 2 September.

The Handicappers were unanimous in their view that 3rd placed TEXAS RED made for the ideal line horse, in the belief that he would not have run below his rating in filling a place against a field of this calibre, leaving him unchanged on a mark of 94.

Aside from the winner, the only other rating’s increase was for 2nd placed SHELDON, who goes up from 110 to 116.

There were ratings drops for three horses. SMORGASBORD is down slightly from 109 to 108, VAL D’ORCIA drops from 103 to 101, and lastly TEAM GOLD was trimmed from 103 to 102.

Betway Insurebet Jockey Club Stakes (Listed)

FLOWER OF SAIGON has had her rating raised from 89 to 101 after she easily won the Listed Betway Insurebet Jockey Club Stakes

for fillies and mares over 2000m on the turf course at Fairview on Friday 1 September. The Handicappers were of the view that consistent 6th finisher DEFINITELY MAYBE would not have run below her best in a field of this nature and opted to use her as the line horse, leaving her unchanged on a mark of 88.

The only other increase was for 3rd placed DOUBLE CHECK, who goes up from 76 to 91.

The only ratings drop was for runner-up FIRST STREET, who is down slightly from 98 to 97.

HEALTHY COPING STRATEGIES FOR SA JOCKEYS

The dangers of riding racehorses at high speed, combined with possible criticism from owners, trainers and punters, and often the need to maintain the weight necessary to establish a career and earn a living, means that the life of a professional jockey is hardly as glamorous as many of us would believe.

Racing is often seen as having lagged behind other sports in accepting the importance of jockeys’ mental health.

But there is always hope that research and renewed conversation about it can bring about real change.

As part of her MSc in Psychological Sciences at Brunel University, London, well-known

horseracing media personality Michele Wing is currently looking for volunteers to take part in a confidential research study about the perception of stressors and coping strategies used by South African jockeys.

Michele’s study has received ethical approval from Brunel University College of Health, Medicine and Life Science Research Ethics Committee, London.

Participation in this research is entirely voluntary, anonymous and confidential and participants can withdraw at any point without having to give a reason.

Jockeys keen to contribute can email 2207711@brunel.ac.uk in strict confidence.

KENNEDY’S SHOWING THE KIWI’S HOW

There’s an underlying tenacity about Warren Kennedy that says New Zealand has yet to see the best of him.

The thoughtfully-spoken 43-year-old follows in the footsteps of several South African jockeys to have ridden here over the years, but none left their home country with the success that he’d achieved.

Kennedy caused a sensation in South African racing when he announced he was leaving for New Zealand at the end of the 2021-22 season. For a jockey described as a journeyman for so

many years, Kennedy had won his first South African national premiership as a 41-year-old then repeated the achievement the following season, only to quit his home country as the reigning champion.

The motivation was two-fold: he had ambitions to become a champion jockey abroad but he also wanted a better life for his wife Barbara and their two young daughters.

Warren enjoying Summer Pudding with the Peters | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Among the places Kennedy sent his resume was New Zealand and former South African jockey Donovan Mansour was quick to reply, telling him this was the place to come.

Kennedy’s brother and sister had already immigrated here and after a reconnaissance visit, he decided to follow their lead.

Breaking into the close-knit jockeys ranks is the first challenge for a foreign rider but Kennedy quickly won over his new Kiwi colleagues and it wasn’t long before he won over New Zealand trainers, owners and punters with his skills in the saddle. His style might be considered unorthodox by New Zealand standards

but it has been effective enough to see his first part-season here successful by any measure.

He has claimed Group One success, won one of New Zealand’s three NZ$1 million races and filled a spot in the top five on the national premiership. It’s a great start.

But Kennedy is far from done even scratching the surface of what he wants to achieve here. That’s par for the course for a jockey who has overcome many obstacles on his path to success, once even considered too small for a sport that demands many of its riders to starve themselves in order to participate.

Warren chats to Gavin van Zyl after his Grade 1 victory |

Credit:Candiese Lenferna

DECLARATIONOFPEACE (USA)

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)

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Frankie Dettori made his visit to Kincsem Park a memorable day

Credit: Racing TV

HUNGARY DOUBLE

Frankie Dettori treated his Hungarian fans to two of his famous flying dismounts after riding a big-race double at Kincsem Park on Saturday. The track in Budapest was an unlikely stop on Dettori’s farewell tour ahead of his retirement at the end of the year, with the rider making the trip to Hungary for six rides.

Some familiar names featured on his book of mounts, with four horses travelling from the UK for owner Fitri Hay and her husband Jim, whose connection with Hungarian minister of defence Kristof Szalay-Bobrovniczky – also a key figure on the Hungarian horse racing scene – led to Dettori’s first visit to the track in his final year. Teaming up with the Ian Williams-trained Silent Film for the first leg of his high-profile double in a local Group Two over a mile, Dettori was ideally placed on the heels of fellow Hay-owned runner Sceptic, who set sail for home under Rebeka Gonczi at the home turn.

Silent Film was always travelling the better of the two though and when Dettori gave the signal, he pulled clear for a cosy success.

Speaking to the Kincsem Park TV channel, he said: “Thanks to Jim for bringing the horses here and to put on a show is great. We gave the fans what they wanted.

“The race was run at a good tempo, we had a good spot, I followed Rebeka and the other English horse and when I pressed the button he went, so I really enjoyed it.”

Jim Hay added: “It was a fantastic race. We’re honoured to be here, and I couldn’t have asked for a better finish.”

Dettori later steered the Hayowned Splendent to victory in the Kincsem Stakes, a race which carries local Group One status. Trained by Paul and Oliver Cole, Splendent was last seen finishing down the field in deep ground over a mile and six furlongs at Goodwood, but dropping back to 12 furlongs, Dettori made full use of his mount’s stamina. Making his move on the last bend, Splendent galloped out to the line for a cosy success, with David Simcock’s Tides Of War coming home in third for Gonczi. Dettori added: “We had a good start and when I got halfway around the turn, I kicked for home as I wanted to make sure 2,400 metres was 2,400 metres as he just gallops all day.

“It’s been a very good day and full credit to Jim and the trainers who have brought the horses – it’s a long way to travel and they have performed well. “We have given the public what they wanted, and this could open more doors to Hungarian racing.”

WELD LOOKING FOR CUP 30 YEARS ON

Dermot Weld is considering another crack at the Melbourne Cup – 30 years on from his breakthrough success in the race – with Harbour Wind, one of 132 entries for the race on November 7.

The Classic-winning trainer, who saddled Vintage Crop to win in 1993, has identified the three-year-old son of Nathaniel as a possible runner this year after landing three of his four starts.

Paul Bloodworth, general manager international and racing operations at Racing Victoria, said

there was a strong possibility Weld could saddle his first Melbourne Cup runner since Galileo’s Choice finished 20th in 2012.

He said: “Dermot is really keen to have a horse running on the 30th anniversary of him winning the Melbourne Cup with Vintage Crop.

Dermot Weld – Harbour Wind could be a possible | Credit: Aga Khan Studs

“We went and saw Dermot in Ireland in late July and he actually had a filly that he was interested in bringing in Shamida, who had just won a Group 3 race in Ireland.

“He has changed plans for that horse, but he also showed us Harbour Wind and he said, ‘Look, he hasn’t done anything yet, but I really like him and he’s going to the Vinnie Roe (Stakes) and we’ll see how we go from there’.

“He won the Vinnie Roe very impressively, but he probably needs to get his rating up a little higher. He might be a little too low to be confident of securing a start.”

Harbour Wind is on course to feature at the Curragh on Saturday and holds an entry for both the Group 3 Paddy Power Stakes, for which he is a 33-1 shot with the race sponsors, and the 1m5f Petingo Handicap.

Bloodworth said: “He looks to be going to a race in Ireland this weekend,” Bloodworth added. “If he was to run well in either of those races and get his rating up so he’s in a position to get a run, I think he would be a genuine chance to come.”

“He (Weld) contacted us after the Vinnie Roe and said ‘Where are we’? We’ve had to wait until the horse got re-rated and he’s still a bit lower than what he needs to be. A win on the

weekend would do that and even a placing would probably do it.”

Bloodworth added that Harbour Wind’s owners Moyglare Stud were tempted by the trip to Melbourne.

He said: “The owners have brought horses to Australia before and I met a representative of theirs while I was over there and they are very keen to come back. Hopefully, the stars are aligning and Dermot will come back.”

Of the 132 entries, 15 of them are international runners with William Haggas, Willie Mullins, Aidan O’Brien and his son Joseph O’Brien among the trainers who could be involved.

Desert Hero, who followed up his Royal Ascot success with Group 3 victory in the Gordon Stakes at Goodwood, holds an entry, while Melbourne Cup ante-post favourite Vauban and Absurde are both on course to represent Mullins.

Ballydoyle trainer O’Brien has five entries for the race, while son Joseph has three, and leading trainers Gai Waterhouse, Chris Waller, Danny O’Brien and Ciaron Maher and David Eustace are also strongly represented. www.racingpost.com

DOOMED!

The aptly named Doom entered the history books by equalling the all-time record of a shortest-priced loser in Britain when she lost out at 1-25 in a match against Karmology at Ripon earlier this week.

Doom was viewed as a certainty having gone within a head of future Oaks winner Soul Sister in a Doncaster maiden last October, while her comeback

second at Newmarket last month was similarly packed full of promise.

But James Wigan’s exceptionally bred daughter of Dubawi, who is out of Breeders’ Cup-winning mare Dank, was subject to a major upset by an unraced runner, who was only entered by trainer Karl Burke because the track was close to home.

ATZENI & DE MELO INTRODUCED TO MEDIA

Andrew Harding, The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Executive Director, Racing, and jockeys Andrea Atzeni (right) and Keagan De Melo (left) at Tuesday’s (5 September) press briefing | Credit: HKJC

Recently arrived jockeys Andrea Atzeni and Keagan De Melo were officially unveiled by The Hong Kong Jockey Club at Sha Tin on Tuesday ahead of the impending 2023/24 racing season which commences this Sunday.

Mr Andrew Harding, The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Executive Director, Racing, said: “As foreshadowed at the end of last season we intended that over the course of the offseason we would be adding to the jockey’s roster and I’m extremely pleased to formerly announce that the two jockeys that have now been given part-season licences by the Licensing Committee.

“Since the last time Andrea was licenced by the Club, his career has gone on to even greater heights.

He has Group 1 wins in seven countries, including two British Classics and he arrives

here after an extraordinarily successful summer in the United Kingdom.

I’m very confident that he will be warmly embraced by the trainers, owners and public.”

Atzeni, 32, returns to Hong Kong as a polished globally accredited Group 1-winning rider. Hailing from Italy – Atzeni has been based in Great Britain for much of his career, notably riding for trainers Roger Varian and the retired Luca Cumani.

“I spent a little bit of time here (in Hong Kong) between 2014 and 2015, it’s a long time ago and I was a lot younger. I’d say mentally, I wasn’t quite ready for it.

So coming back here nine years later, I feel like I’ve achieved a lot more around experience and I’ve been lucky enough to ride all over the world.

“When the offer came along, I thought about it quite carefully, I came to a conclusion that it was the right time in my career to come back to Hong Kong and try my luck here,” Atzeni said.

The Italian has top-level wins in Great Britain, France, Italy, Ireland, the United Arab Emirates, Canada and Germany. He is best known for his Group 1 triumphs aboard Postponed, Defoe, Stradivarius, Decorated Knight, Kingston Hill and Desert Encounter.

Atzeni has three wins in Hong Kong, while his most recent Group 1 win came in the G1 Prix Morny (1200m) at Deauville in France aboard Vandeek for trainers Simon & Ed Crisford last month.

The entrance of Keagan De Melo sees the South African ace join fellow compatriots Lyle Hewitson and Luke Ferraris with riding contracts in Hong Kong.

“South Africa, of course, has been a source of great riders in Hong Kong and Keagan very much is in that mould. He boasts a number of Group 1 wins and I am very confident that he will follow in the footsteps of the other South

African riders who have spent time here,” said Mr Andrew Harding, The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Executive Director, Racing.

De Melo, 30, is a product of the highly-regarded South African Jockey Academy, and last season starred with a maiden champion jockey title in South Africa.

“I’ve settled in quite well. I’ve been here for just under a month, so it’s given me a bit of time to get used to the weather and get my family used to it. It’s all going well so far,” De Melo said.

De Melo has ridden over 100 winners in a season on six occasions in South Africa. He is known for big-race partnerships with Puerto Manzano, Gimme A Prince and Son Of Raj –the winner of the 2023 South African Derby.

“Until about two years ago I probably wasn’t looking into leaving South Africa but the better you get in your homeland you try and explore a little bit more, I thought it was the right time for me,” De Melo said.

Both Atzeni and De Melo are licenced to ride in Hong Kong until 12 February, 2024.

MOORE REUNITES WITH SHINZO

England’s superstar jockey Ryan Moore will be reunited with Golden Slipper winner Shinzo in the Gr1 A$1m Golden Rose at Rosehill Gardens later this month.

Coolmore’s Tom Magnier told punters.com. au Moore had agreed to return to Sydney to ride Chris Waller’s crack colt in the three-year-old feature on September 23.

Moore answered Coolmore’s SOS after it was discovered on Tuesday that ‘

Australia’s champion rider James McDonald had sustained a fracture in his left foot that would require four weeks to heal.

“We have been chatting with Ryan since learning of James’s injury,” Magnier revealed.

“There are some feature races in England that weekend but nothing as big as Shinzo in the Golden Rose.”

BREEDERS

SIRES

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