SP Sprint - 24 April 2024

NATIONAL EXCELLENCE!

The various vendor teams were kept busy over a tiring but rewarding week at the TBA Sales Complex. Here Maine Chance Farm’s Jerome de Jager was photographed by Candiese Lenferna while tending to one of tomorrow’s champions. Now that the curtain has come down on a recordbreaking 2024 BSA National Yearling Sale, we salute all the backroom players who did the real hard work behind the scenes

Drakenstein’s Gaynor Rupert enjoys Winchester Mansion’s win in the 2023 Hollywoodbets Durban July. Candiese Lenferna took the photograph.

HOLLYWOODBETS DURBAN JULY

– CLASS OF ’24 TAKES SHAPE

A nationally representative first entry of 58 of South Africa’s best have commenced the long road to Hollywoodbets Durban July glory on Saturday 6 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville.

The first entries for the 128th renewal of the R5 million Grade 1 Hollywoodbets Durban July were unveiled by Gold Circle today as the 73 day countdown to South Africa’s greatest horseracing event commences in earnest.

The number of entries compare favourably in quantum with recent years, when 60 were received in 2023, 68 in 2022, 53 in 2021, 52 in 2020, 49 in 2019, and 69 in 2018.

And in terms of class and depth, 2024 promises a vintage renewal with all of the big-hitters having thrown their hats into the ring in a quest for glory in a race that every owner, trainer, jockey and breeder wants to win.

There are five past winning trainers – Mike de Kock, Brett Crawford, Dean Kannemeyer, Justin Snaith and Sean Tarry - with representation, and only Candice Bass-Robinson, Michelle Rix and Glen Kotzen, of the 21st century still active local conditioners, are not represented at this stage of the game.

As has been the norm for some years, Sean Tarry (10), Justin Snaith (8) and Mike de Kock (7) hold the aces in pure power of numbers.

Ten fillies and mares are included in the 58 entries, with 21st century fairer sex flagbearers including Sparkling Water (2022), Igugu (2011), Dancer’s Daughter (2008) and Ipi Tombe (2002).

Last year’s top two finishers, Winchester Mansion and See It Again, are back.

Hollywoodbets Durban July timeline:

• First declarations close at 11h00 on Monday 13 May.

• Second declarations close at 11h00 on Monday 3 June.

• Final supplementary entries close at 11h00 on Tuesday 18 June.

• Weights will be published on Tuesday 18 June.

• Final declarations close at 11h00 on Monday 24 June.

• Final Field and Draw – announcement of the Final Field and Barrier Draws will be on Tuesday 25 June.

Elimination will be at the sole and unfettered discretion of Gold Circle.

Narina Trogon and Imilenzeyokududuma – local hopes | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Unbeaten Highveld champion Gimme A Nother – will she look to make history? | Credit: JC Photos

TRIPLE FEATURE FOR SA CHAMPIONS SEASON LAUNCH

Main Defender – good draws give connections the options of both features | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

With the announcement this coming Wednesday of the first entries for the 2024 Hollywoodbets Durban July, and the first entries received today for the WSB Gr2 Guineas and WSB Gr2 Fillies Guineas, and the traditional season opener, the Independent on Saturday Gr2 Drill Hall Stakes, the stakes-boosted SA Champions Season is now in full stride

The countdown to the South African Champions Season has begun in earnest and after Hollywoodbets recently confirmed a stakes injection of R10,6 million for the ‘national championships’, it’s all systems go.

The IOS Gr2 Drill Hall Stakes has attracted a first entry of 19, including Highveld champion Main Defender, whose connections will be celebrating a 4 gate on the draw sensitive circuit in the 1400m contest, and a 5 for the Guineas. The Sandringham Summit connections will be less pleased, with their champion pulling a gate of 18, but having more luck in the Guineas.

R500 000 1400m (Turf)

DRILL HALL STAKES (Grade 2)

The WSB Guineas has drawn an entry of 13, with Sandringham Summit (draw 6) right

alongside contemporary Main Defender. Lucky Lad, SplashOut Cape Derby winner Green With Envy, and Snow Pilot add to the mix.

R500 000 1600m (Turf)

WORLD SPORTS BETTING GUINEAS (Grade 2)

The fairer sex Guineas has attracted only 12 entries, but with plenty of quality, including recent runaway Gr2 Umkhomazi Stakes winner, Double Grand Slam.

R500 000 1600m (Turf)

WORLD SPORTS BETTING FILLIES GUINEAS

Supplementary entries for the three features close at 11h00 on Friday 26 April, with declarations due by 11h00 on Tuesday 30 April.

The annual spectacle of horseracing excellence is steeped in tradition and reaches a heady climax with the running of Africa’s greatest horseracing event, the R5-million Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July, on Saturday 6 July.

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KIESWETTER-HEFFER SUCCESS IN IRELAND

County Kilkenny in Ireland saw yet another Northern Hemisphere success for the Kieswetter and Heffer family racing partnership at the scenic Gowran Park on Tuesday when the Barnane Stud-bred Cheeky Wink won smartly at just her second outing.

Racing in the silks of Barnane Stud, in partnership with Owen Heffer, the Johnny Murtagh-trained Cheeky Wink was never out of touch with the leaders under Ben Coen, before accelerating smartly to beat the 10-1 Total Look, with the Joseph O’Brien trained odds-on favourite Soul Of Spain beaten into third.

After a good fifth on her mile debut, the emphatic victory over 300m extra here suggests much better things lie ahead for the daughter of Darley’s royally bred Derby winner, Masar (New Approach).

The winner’s South African-bred dam Smiling Blue Eyes hails from a classic Ridgemont family and was lightly raced at home and in Dubai.

She won the 2016 Gr3 Fillies Mile, before her career peak success when overcoming an impossible draw of 16 out in the wilderness, to score an eyecatching victory in the 2017 Gr2 Gauteng Guineas.

A half-sister to the Jallad stallion Russian Sage, Smiling Blue Eyes is by Ridgemont’s iconic late stallion Dynasty (Fort Wood) is out of the five-time winning Badger Land mare, Sage Blue – who won from a mile to 2000m.

With loads of stamina on both sides of her pedigree, and a clear touch of class about her, one wonders where to now for the aptly named Cheeky Wink?

Interesting to note that she holds entries for the Tattersalls Irish 1000 Guineas to be run at The Curragh on 26 May and the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Gowran Classic to be run at the same venue of her Tuesday victory, on 3 June 2024.

Cheeky Wink’s success comes hot on the heels of the Barnane Stud and Hollywood Syndicate owned grey Il Etait Temps who was victorious the Close Brothers Manifesto Gr1 Novices’ Chase at the Grand National Festival just weeks back.

Ben Coen has Cheeky Wink in control to beat Total Look | Credit: Supplied

TWO DAYS THAT CHANGED SA RACING

The arena of dreams! | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

New record highs and a market buoyed by many bright lights at the end of the tunnel. That was the state of play when the curtain came down after two days of frenetic National Yearling Sale bidding on Friday evening as economic challenges, and the memory of the dark days of the Covid-19 pandemic, felt well and truly buried.

The TBA Sales Complex on 18 and 19 April 2024 may well be looked at in the years ahead as two days that firmly placed South African horseracing back on the road to a sustainable recovery.

After the 2023 twelve year high aggregate of R153 750 000, the stakes were raised further as 344 of the 393 catalogued yearlings sold on Thursday and Friday for a scintillating aggregate of R200 190 000, with an average of R 581 948 (2023 – R4442 672) and a median of R400 000 (2023- R300 000).

The nearest comparative aggregate was back in 2008, when R201 050 000 was the total

spend, but with 170 more yearlings going through the ring, producing an average of R391 148 and median of R250 000.

The top lot for the 2024 renewal remained the Day 1 cracker, lot 175, Man Of His Word, a Gimmethegreenlight colt out of Honorine by Redoute’s Choice and consigned by Wilgerbosdrift, which was bought by the Hong Kong Jockey Club for R6 million.

Mauritzfontein consigned the top filly, lot 88 named Cherry Bakewell, who fell to a bid of R3,6 million by Form Bloodstock also on Day 1.

A three-parts sister to former Horse Of The Year and Wilgerbosdrift Triple Tiara queen Summer Pudding, her dam is a Gr3 winning half-sister to Triple Tiara winning champion Cherry On The Top.

Top vendors were champion breeders Wilgerbosdrift, whose 19 yearlings sold for R25 525 000 at an average of R1 343 421.

Form Bloodstock bought 18 lots for a gross R25 325 000 at an average of R1 406 944.

While the retired Drakenstein star Trippi had 8 yearlings selling for R11 300 000 at an average of R1 412 500, the sires charts saw Vercingetorix’ 34 yearlings selling for R39 475 000 at an average of R1 161 029.

Varsfontein champion Gimmethegreenlight had 39 sell for R35 450 000, an average of R908 974.

Both What A Winter and fast ascending star Rafeef had their supporters, with the Drakenstein sire selling 25 for R14 380 000 at an average of R575 200, while the Ridgemont hero sold 21 for R11 415 000 at an average of R543 571.

Speaking to the Sporting Post , a delighted BSA CEO Michael Holmes said that the EU export gateway announcement in late March came 13 years after South Africa was last able to export registered equines directly to the EU, and the timing thereof, in tandem with great things happening in the various racing jurisdictions countrywide, has set the tone for a return to establishing our rightful place in the global village. Our buying bench included a mix of local and international buyers, and the quality was impeccable. Our breeders have done a great job at all levels, and we look forward to the future with great anticipation,” said Holmes.

The Sprint is interactive – please see all the BSA National Yearling Sale prices here.

Sandy Arundel purchased the handsome # 162, named Trip To Camelot for R5,25 million

DRAKENSTEIN FILLY SOARS ABOVE THE CLOUDS

The Drakenstein bred and raced 3yo Winter Cloud booked her ticket for the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on 1 June with a facile victory over some serious opposition in the R250 000 Gr3 Champagne Stakes at a sun-drenched Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on the Community Fest raceday on Saturday.

Winter Cloud was returning to action after a five week break and produced an eye-catching performance to give Anthony Andrews a perfect 3 rides for 3 winners record aboard her.

Candice Bass-Robinson saddled five of the eleven runners, and it was left to two of her really smart 3yo fillies to fill the exacta as Winter Cloud moved forward after Captain Fontaine had tried to make every post a winning one.

Winter Cloud (13-2) accelerated through the field from near last and made it a Gr3 treble as she drew off without any encouragement to easily account for stablemate October Morn (52) by 1,25 lengths in a time of 71,38 secs.

There were some schools of thought that Grant van Niekerk had not covered himself in glory on the runner-up, but there is no detracting from Winter Cloud’s performance, despite her 2kg pull at the weights.

Questioning (20-1) flashed up late for third, with the consistent Dance Variety (9-2) rounding the quartet off.

A runner-up in the Gr1 Allan Roberston Championship at the Pietermaritzburg speed meeting in 2023, Winter Cloud will be aimed at the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint.

A daughter of Equus Champion What A Winter (Western Winter), who proved a popular choice at Nationals on Thursday and Friday, Winter Cloud is out of Irish-bred Montelissima, a Montjeu half-sister to Listed Summer Juvenile Stakes winner Arria and Gr2 Senor Santa Stakes third Pivotal Pursuit.

Her second dam Issa is a full-sister to unbeaten Yorkshire Oaks winner Catchascatchcan, dam of Breeders’ Cup Mile winner, and former Highlands Stud sire, Antonius Pius.

Winter Cloud has now won 6 races with a place from 11 starts for stakes of R1 117 939.

A REMARKABLE FAMILY

The powerful equine armoury of Drakenstein Stud was out in full force at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth last weekend, where homebred filly Winter Cloud got one over her rivals with a sparkling victory in the Gr3 Champagne Stakes.

The three-year-old is yet another feather in the cap for resident stallion What A Winter, sire also of her Gr1 winning older sister Clouds Unfold.

Drakenstein imported their dam Montelissima as a four-year-old maiden mare. By Montjeu, she was quick off mark with her second foal, Clouds Unfold, a winner of the Gr1 Majorca Stakes at three and again at four, when she defeated Celtic Sea in an epic finish.

A repeat mating to What Winter four years later resulted in Winter Cloud, who likewise joined the stable of Candice Bass-Robinson.

Winter Cloud showed as a juvenile that she too, lacked nothing in talent and put together a fine treble of wins, which included both the Gr3 Cape Of Good Hope Nursery (a race her sister had won before her) and Gr3 Strelitzia Stakes before earning Gr1 black type with a second behind Mrs Geriatrix in the Allan Robertson Championship.

Her Champagne victory has no doubt earned her a return trip to the Pietermaritzburg track and a tilt at at the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint.

Winter Cloud’s grandam Issa followed Montelissima to Drakenstein and arrived in South Africa carrying the Pivotal colt Pivotal Pursuit, who was destined to become a Gr2placed winner of nine races.

Sadly, Issa died all too early at age ten, but left the best for last. Her final foal, the Antonius Pius filly Arria became her dam’s sole stakes winner in an all-female finish to the Listed Summer Juvenile Stakes.

Winter Cloud stamps her authority under Anthony Andrews | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

‘Incestuous’ is probably a fitting word to describe the mating which produced Arria, as Issa is an own sister to the dam of Antonius Pius, the Yorkshire and Lancashire Oaks winner Catchascatchcan.

Winter Cloud’s female line may be totally British, yet it has enjoyed a good deal of success in this country.

Winter Cloud traces to Ribblesdale winner Ostrya, a grandaughter of the non-winner Silvery Moon, who did much better in the paddocks as the dam of two stakes winners: Coronation Cup winner Oncidium, who became a champion stallion in Australia and New Zealand and Ostrya’s dam Malcolmia, a winner of Epsom’s Ebbisham Stakes.

Interestingly, Silvery Moon has exerted her influence in South Africa in more than one way, given that her half-sister Donah is the grandam of Sleeping Partner, who swept to victory in

the 1969 Epsom Oaks under none other than South African John Gorton!

Fast forward to 1981, when the late Pat O’Neill imported the accomplished racehorse Averof. Out of Silvery Moon’s Gr3-placed daughter Argentina, he had won all of the Gr2 St James’s Palace, Gr3 Diomed and Gr3 Dee Stakes. A handsome bay of great balance and symmetry and a grand walker, the son of Sing Sing swapped England for Broadlands Stud, having stood six seasons in the UK.

Whether it was the African sun on his back or access to a different cross-section of mares, Averof absolutely blossomed in his new home. During his decade-long stint at Broadlands, he gave us the likes of Foveros, Priceless Asset, Pedometer, Milleverof and Dynamite Lady and to this day, his name still pops up reguarly in pedigrees through the likes of Pomodoro and of course the daughters of Foveros, who became a king amongst stallions, leading

Candice and Mark Bass welcome the smart winner | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

the General Sires list on no less than nine occasions, eight of which consecutively.

Incidentally, Averof’s older full brother Buffo also stood in South Africa and while he never reached similar heights, he did sire champion juvenile Creator and the outstanding filly Sistematic.

Then of course there was the phenomenal Flaming Rock.

Bred in Ireland and imported as a foal at foot, he was out of Averof’s half-sister Flogera. Chris Snaith trained “The Rocket”, who blazed a glorious trail across the skyline of South African racing, carrying the late Shirley Pfeiffer’s silks to 18 victories, amongst which the Gr1 Rothmans July, Queen’s Plate and three renewals of the Schweppes Challenge.

Twice voted Horse of the Year, the handsome bay retired to his owner’s Arc-En-Ciel Stud, but left just three crops before his untimely death at age nine. Sire of Gr1 Cape Paddock winner Savannah Queen, he also features as the broodmare sire of Horse of the Year Irish Flame and Gr1 winning juvenile Talahatchie.

Antonius Pius, mentioned above, stood at Ridgemont Highlands. A Gr2 winner who placed in both the Gr1 Prix du Moulin de Longchamp and Gr1 St James’s Palace Stakes, he counts Drakenstein matron My Sanctuary amongst his stakes winners.

She too has become a treasured member of the farm’s broodmare band as the dam of Champion three-year-old and Gr1 winner Safe Passage and his stakes winning Silvano full sister Silver Sanctuary, who boasts seconds in this season’s Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas and Gr1 Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Classic.

Juvenile colt Winds Of Change, by What A Winter, became My Sanctuary’s latest black type performer when runner-up in the Gr3 Cape of Good Hope Nursery.

Meanwhile, Winter Cloud is the horse driving this remarkable female family at present.

She will continue in her quest for a coveted Gr1 success, one which will further enhance its legacy in this country.

WRIGHT SIGNS FOR RIDGEMONT

Things are happening for jockey Gareth Wright. He’s enjoying riding in the Cape. His young family have settled in well. He turned 34 on Monday. And he was recently signed up by the Ridgemont operation as a retained jockey.

The former Maritzburg College graduate spoke to the Sporting Post on his birthday and, while he is just not the personality type inclined to outbursts of gregarious shows of emotion, he said confidently that he believed that his career was poised to take off – not least of all, due to the Ridgemont endorsement of confidence.

“I am very honoured and proud to have been given this opportunity by Ridgemont. It’s a prestigious and high-performance brand that

demands excellence at all quarters, and I well realise that I have big boots to fill after Anton Marcus and Greg Cheyne,” said the quietly spoken Gareth.

He is, of course, referring to the previous Ridgemont riders. Both multiple champion Gr1 winning jockeys, Marcus retired quietly after a persistent injury last year, while Cheyne, who dominated the landscape in the Eastern Cape for many seasons, emigrated to the UK in 2023.

Gareth Wright proudly wears the famous Ridgemont flag | Credit: Supplied

Ridgemont’s Craig Kieswetter welcomed Gareth to the team, and said that a dedicated rider meant that he would get to know the individual horses and their quirks, and then be in a position to provide optimal assistance and valuable feedback.

“We are delighted to welcome Gareth into the Ridgemont team – and are very excited as we look to the future development of our racing division. In the past we have had great success with both Anton Marcus and Greg Cheyne as Ridgemont retained riders and Gareth, as an established jockey with an extremely professional outlook, is a fantastic fit for us.” added Kieswetter.

While he had some excellent grounding as an apprentice with the Snaith Racing team in the Cape, Gareth Wright’s career has taken some character-building twists and turns since he joined the SA Jockey Academy at the age of sixteen on 11 January 2007.

He rode his first winner, the Modern Day filly Flying Day, at the track we know today as Hollywoodbets Scottsville, on 22 July 2009.

He then rode his first Gr1 winner on Camphoratus, when the Robbie Hill trained filly won the Empress Club Stakes as a 50-1 shot at Turffontein, almost five years ago to the day.

He has spent time in Johannesburg, and then been back to his home province of KZN, with mixed success, including a rewarding stint with the Plattner Racing Team.

Gareth’s also had his share of injuries and suspensions – occupational hazards in the rough and tumble of racing.

But it was the move South in 2023, and the chance to ride some ‘better horses’, that have boosted Gareth’s confidence.

We asked how he dealt with pressure, and the personal and external expectations that go with it.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the chances I was given at the Candice Bass-Robinson yard. I was riding nice horses regularly, and I have found that having grown up, I am handling pressure better – in fact I am relishing it and thriving on it.”

Gareth tells how seeing a quote by tennis legend Billie Jean King, which hangs on the wall in the Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queen’s New York, made him ponder.

“I actually saw it on the series BreakPoint on Netflix – it suggests that ‘Pressure is a privilege’. It’s so apt for me in my life as a sportsman striving to do my best. It’s human nature to try and duck pressure, as it makes us uncomfortable. But all the top guys have stared pressure in the face, taken it on and beaten it. Pressure and opportunity go hand in hand, and it’s a very real part of horseracing, and raceriding, in particular.”

He says that now that things are falling into place professionally, his happy family life is an important support structure. He enjoys enthusiastic backing from his wife Kerrin, and his daughter Alexi-Lee, who turned 3 in January.

Besides spending his down time with his family, Gareth enjoys Go-Karting and Action Cricket keeps him in shape, while providing a social outlet.

He rides comfortably at 54kgs, but can get down to 52,5kgs, where the ride justifies it.

“There are no excuses not to do well. I have the support of a top sponsor in Ridgemont, my family are content and happy in the Cape, and I am enjoying riding some really nice horses. I am in a good space. I intend to make them all proud,” concluded Gareth.

FORTUNE

– POSITIVE AND FOCUSED!

Former SA Champion Jockey Andrew Fortune says he remains positive and focused on a comeback to the saddle, after the National Horseracing Authority’s licencing committee provided him with feedback on his application when they convened on Monday 22 April. Fortune has received a request for further information from the committee and told the Sporting Post on Monday evening that he will gladly provide any information that may be required.

“I remain determined to start riding again and will respect the process. The committee has a job to do, and I will provide whatever information that they need to reach this decision. I am confident of succeeding and am, by this time of my life,

used to overcoming challenges!”

He added that he had been inundated with whatsapp messages and phone calls from associates, friends and colleagues.

“Can I please send a shoutout via the Sporting Post to thank everybody for the interest, the love and passion shown. I read the social media comments, and it’s been amazing,” he added.

The 55-year-old last rode professionally eight years ago and his comeback story has gripped the public’s imagination like none before.

It is not known how long the process will take from here.

Andrew Fortune at the National Yearling Sale last week | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

KEY WEST

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GREEF FILLY REGISTERS REGIONAL NURSERY DOUBLE

Splicethemainbrace (Richard Fourie) registers a dual sex regional Nursery double

Credit: Pauline Herman

The Varsfontein-bred Master Of My Fate filly Splicethemainbrace showed her class to register a dual sex regional Nursery double when she proved a touch too classy for her eight rivals to win the R175 000 Listed East Cape Fillies Nursery at Fairview on Friday.

Sent off an even money favourite, Splicethemainbrace raced covered up in midfield as Silvonian led the charge from Family Law, with Cliffie Miller’s handsome chestnut Play Act outpaced early under replacement rider, Denis Schwarz.

Richard Fourie got to work on Splicethemainbrace inside the 350m, and she took command rather easily to go on and hold the challenge from Kingdundee (6-1) by 1,50 lengths in a time of 68,65 secs.

Silvonian (10-1) held on for third a further 1,50 lengths away, with Family Law (5-1) rounding off the quartet.

“She’s a skinny little whippet. But when you ask her she goes. A lesson to the professionals looking for the best looking horses, maybe” said the unstoppable Richard Fourie, who registered a race-to-race double after Three Rocks won a half hour earlier for the Greeff stable and the same owners, the ASSM Racing Syndicate (Nom: Mr Arun Chadha)

Bred by Varsfontein, the winner is by Master Of My Fate out of the Sail In Seattle mare, Summer Cruise.

The unbeaten filly has now won four on the trot and took her earnings to R296 250.

She was a R200 000 purchase from the 2023 August Two Year Old Sale and is a full-sister to the useful Summer Odyssey, who ran fourth in last year’s Listed East Cape Fillies Nursery.

VARSFONTEIN’S INVESTMENT IN EXCELLENCE REWARDED

Few studs boast as rich a haul of high-class three-year-olds this season as Varsfontein. At latest count, no less than a dozen stakes performers have emerged from the 2020 crop born and raised at the revered farm, amongst which no less than four Gr1 winners.

The recipe to this success? Well, it’s no secret that the Kalmanson family has built its broodmare band on solid foundations and have always strived to purchase fillies and mares from top families, a practice which has rewarded them time and time again.

In addition, Varsfontein is currently home to reigning champion stallion Gimmethegreenlight, backed up by two superbly-related homebreds, top-five stallion Master Of My Fate and the as yet unproven Erik The Red.

To give an idea of the quality which abounds amongst its dozen black type sophomores, all but four boast stakes-performed dams.

Pride of place must go to future Varsfontein stallion Sandringham Summit. Voted champion juvenile when he captured the Gr1 Premier’s Champion Stakes and Gr2 Durban Golden Horseshoe, he has this season added both the Gr2 Gauteng Guineas and Gr2 Hawaii Stake. His dam Townsend won the Gr2 Odessa Stud Championship and previously produced Gr1 Tsogo Sun Medallion winner Eden Roc, who is doing stallion duties at Clifton Stud in the KZN Midlands. Not many mares produce two stallion sons, so hats off to this daughter of Captain Al. Imperial State, a Gr3-placed daughter of the

stud’s former stalwart Caesour is the dam of last season’s Gr1 Gold Medallion hero Lucky Lad. She is out of Gr1 winner State Treasure, who has established her own dynasty at Varsfontein. Dam of Gr1 winner State Coach, she also features as the grandam of a host of graded stakes performers.

Second to his former paddock mate in the Gr1 Premiers

Champion Stakes, he turned the tables in the Gr3 Graham Beck Stakes, with third-placed Gimmeanotherchance making it a Varsfontein trifecta.

Silvano mare Star Express, who proved her prowess on the track in the Gr3 Victress Stakes and twice ran second in the Gr1 Majorca Stakes, has made a stellar stud to her broodmare career as the dam of Gr1

Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Classic queen Bless My Stars. By Gimmethegreenlight, she ran the race of her life to run third in last year’s Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July and has left these shores to continue her career in the States.

Her younger full sister Let’s Go Now, a winner of this season’s Gr3 Mother Russian Stakes, and like her sister before her, contested the Gr1 Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Classic but like so many others, proved no match for the amazing Gimme A Nother and had to settle for third.

Master Of My Fate features as the sire of two grand fillies, Sweet Chestnut Stakes victress Princess Izzy and the Varsfontein-retained My Soul Mate, who recently chased home Frances Ethel in the Gr2 Wilgerbosdrift Bridget Oppenheimer SA Oaks.

The former is out of an unraced daughter of Broodmare of the Year Akinfeet, while the latter is a half-sister to the stakes winning brothers Salvator Mundi and Bunker Hunt.

Silvano’s son Vercingetorix is the sire of the splendid Varsfontein-breds Double Grand Slam and Golden Sickle.

The former made light work of the Gr3 Umzimkhulu Stakes in her most recent start, whilst stakes winner Golden Sickle went down by a neck to Thunderstruck in the Gr1 Computaform Stakes.

Both fillies possess pedigrees out of the very top drawer. Double Grand Slam’s dam Princess Peach won the Gr3 Debutante Stakes and is one of five stakes winners produced by stakesplaced Princess Tobin.

Golden Sickle hails from the legendary Mystic Spring clan. The regard in which this family is held by Varsfontein is quite evident, it has collected an envious array of the little grey blue hen’s descendants, including Golden Sickle’s stakes winning dam Victorian Secret.

Equally as fleet-footed as Golden Sickle is Lancaster Bomber’s daughter One Fell Swoop,

who this season completed a Gr3 double in the National Currency Sprint and Sycamore Sprint, and has as her dam a winning half-sister to dual Horse of the Year Legal Eagle.

By the way, the stud’s clients have also benefited from its expert service.

Lady Laidlaw’s Khaya Stables boards her Galileo mare Miss Coco at Varsfontein where in 2020 she foaled a future Gr1 Cape Derby winner in the Gimmethegreenlight colt Green With Envy.

On behalf of Jagessar Limited, Varsfontein foaled and raised the Pathfork gelding Main Defender.

Second to his former paddock mate in the Gr1 Premiers Champion Stakes, he turned the tables in the Gr3 Graham Beck Stakes, with third-placed Gimmeanotherchance making it a Varsfontein trifecta.

Main Defender subsequently earned his own Gr1 spurs with a hugely impressive victory in the Gr1 H F Oppenheimer Horse Chestnut Stakes. His dam is the Varsfontein-bred mare Alessia, a Judpot grandaughter of another notable matriarch in Alexandra Bi.

The calibre of broodmare material Varsfontein has at its disposal goes to show that continuous upgrading brings with it rich rewards.

Judging by the success of its 2020 crop, that much is clear.

WINTER CLOUD AT A COOL 114

Winter Cloud has seen her rating increased from 111 to 114 after winning the Gr3 Champagne Stakes over 1200m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday.

The Handicappers were of the view that second placed October Morn made for the most suitable line horse and her rating remains unchanged on 115.

Two runners received an increase in their ratings. Third placed Questioning went from 110 to 116 after finishing a short head behind the 115 rated October Morn.

Questioning conceded 0.5kg in weight to the 115 rated line horse and was only beaten by a short head, hence his adjustment to 116.

Fourth placed Dance Variety went up 2 points from 106 to 108.

The only runner to receive a drop in ratings was Captain Fontane who went down one point from 110 to 109.

Media release by the NHA on Tuesday, 23 April 2024

CONGRATULATIONS!

Sporting Post sponsored Apprentice Kobeli James Lihaba received his white jacket after registering the 50th winner of his career when steering Soldier’s Eye to victory at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Sunday 21 April. Images are by Candiese Lenferna.

JAMES MAREE IS TRANSFORMING RACING

James Maree, at 78 years of age, is as passionate about his Thoroughbred Racing Development Centre as he was when he launched the project nearly 25 years ago with the support of Mary Slack and the Thoroughbred Racing Trust.

Charl Pretorius writes on his Off The Record column that Maree’s farm at Eikenhof in the countryside to the south of Johannesburg remains the home of Gauteng’s Programme for Work Riders, now funded and administered under the 4Racing umbrella. Its graduates are in demand around the world, and the centre is poised for more success in its teaching of riding skills and its commitment to the process of transformation.

Leading work riders including Joe Gwingwizha, Daniel Cooper, Daniel Baase and Charles Ndlovu, have all accepted lucrative work riding contracts in places like Japan, China, Malaysia and the UK.

Maree reckons the demand will grow stronger.

He said: “When you listen to trainers around the world, one of their main concerns is the lack of qualified work riders. They have a preference for South Africans because of their riding abilities and horsemanship. That our riders can double as grooms is an additional advantage. Trainers also feel that the South Africans have a better work ethic, hence their popularity. Our televised races reach a good global audience, so the work riders are being watched all the time. This is wonderful exposure.”

He added: “You can’t blame the top work riders for leaving South Africa. They earn good salaries, live and work in good conditions. They’re improving their own lives and the lives of their families at home, because they send money back to South Africa. Our task is to keep training riders to high standards, so as to keep our local trainers happy and supply in the demand that now exists abroad.”

James Maree with an aspirant work rider, and the ‘Plastic Horse’ | Credit: 4Racing

Maree, assisted by former jockeys Marthinus Mienie and Piet Nhlapo, manages an intake of up to 40 grooms, three times a year. They complete a basic course in horsemanship, a basic course in riding and an advanced course in riding. They’ve never had the use of a mechanical horse, the so-called racehorse simulator.

They use a big, sturdy plastic model which Maree says is more than adequate for their needs. “When the riders are ready, we put them on real horses. We make a video of each ride and then we study the videos together so we can correct faults.”

“The system works perfectly well. We teach two or three times a week, between 11am 2pm, which is the grooms’ leisure time after work at their respective centres.

We alternate between groups of riders from Randjesfontein, Turffontein and the Vaal. Piet drives our combi and collects the grooms at the various centres. Others travel to us at their own cost, but our courses are free of charge.”

Each graduate gets a certificate on completion of a three-month learning period and the best students receive further training with the eventual goal of riding races. Of those who don’t make the grade, a handful always return to try again. “One has to admire the courage of some of these grooms. There are some with natural talent, but simply no motivation or dedication. They fall by the wayside. Then there are others who don’t have much talent, but they try their hearts out and improve their skills. We get involved on the mentoring side now and then, to help them along.”

Maree, who was SA’s champion jockey in the 1965/66 season and won the Durban July, the Cape Met and the SA Derby multiple times, took up training in 1980 and developed his

farm into a fully equipped training centre complete with tracks, stables and paddocks. Some 20 years later he started the Work Rider programme with the help of Mary Slack and the Racing Trust.

“At the time horse prices were going up dramatically and I felt we needed to improve the skills of those who ride them every morning. They were battling as they didn’t know what they were doing. Something needed to be done to help grooms and horses.”

The programme was streamlined over time, emphasizing the importance of hold, balance and the correct seat. Respect for the thoroughbred, the correct approach towards a horse and personal conduct around horses, owners and trainers are the principles taught as party of the theory instruction.

Maree’s “10 Points For Successful Race Riding” places emphasis on the correct use of the whip.

He said: “In today’s times it is clear that people dislike the whip and I think eventually its current use will be phased out so that jockeys will only be allowed to tap their mounts on the neck. There won’t be any whipping of horses behind the saddle.”

“Despite our efforts we still see work riders using the whip too heavily. Some are

desperate, they need to earn money and will try anything to get into the first four. But we work on that all the time. They need to be patient as race riders, focusing on judging the pace instead of punishing their mounts with the whip.”

The Work Riders Challenge, introduced in 2008, brought a competitive edge to the work riders contests.

It has produced winning riders of quality including Patrick Matshokotsa, Abram Makhubo, Sam Mosia, Joe Gwingwizha and more recently Anathi Feni and Maree said: “Work riders earn the same stake purse percentages as qualified jockeys. Some get carried away when they ride a spate of winners and they can go off the rails, so we have to monitor that and assist where we can to keep them conscientious.”

THE SPRINT IS INTERACTIVE

A TOP-CLASS BROODMARE SIRE

Fastnet Rock, Champion Sire in Australia in 2011-2012 and 2014-2015, has established himself as a truly top-class broodmare sire.

The son of Danehill is currently Australia’s Leading Broodmare Sire for 2023-2024, with his daughters having produced no fewer than 18 black type winners in Australia alone this season.

At the time of writing, progeny of Fastnet Rock mares had claimed an impressive 29 black type races in Australia this season, and had already amassed more than AUS $30 000 000 in stakes ‘Down Under’.

Among the top performers racing this season who were produced by Fastnet Rock mares are Gr1 TAB Golden Slipper winner Lady Of Camelot (Written Tycoon), Gr1 Coolmore Classic/Gr1 Grainshaker Vodka Queen Of The Turf Stakes heroine Zougotcha (Zoustar), Gr1 Schweppes 1000 Guineas heroine Joliestar (Zoustar) and rG1 The Agency George Ryder Stakes victor Veight (Grunt).

Fastnet Rock daughter Miss Debutante is dam of 2024 Golden Slipper winner Lady Of Camelot and has also produced the group winning fillies Platinum Jubilee (Zoustar) and Queen Of The Ball (I Am Invincible).

Fastnet Rock mares have also made their presence felt in South Africa. The much missed New Predator (New Approach), winner of both the Gr2 Drill Hall Stakes and G2r Charity Mile in 2016, made a considerable impact with his first crop.

This crop, now three, is headed by Purple Pitcher and Pure Predator, the first two home in the recent Gr1 TAB SA Derby.

Purple Pitcher won the Gr2 Jonsson Workwear Dingaans and Gr1 TAB SA Classic prior to his Derby triumph.

New Predator was produced by the Fastnet Rock mare Head Over Heels, a winning halfsister to multiple stakes winner Presently (Unbridled’s Song).

Another daughter of Fastnet Rock is Little Fastnet, whose daughter Little Ballerina (Vercingetorix) won this season’s Gr2 Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Nursery.

Fastnet Rock is also the sire of Carraig Anoair, whose five South African winners include 2019 World Sports Betting Grand Heritage winner Riverstown (Byword) as well as Saturday’s winner Green Isle (Gimmethegreenlight).

Fastnet Rock shares his legendary sire Danehill with fellow top-class broodmare sires Dansili,

Redoute’s Choice, Flying Spur, and Danehill Dancer among others.

Remarkably, Dansili, Redoute’s Choice and Danehill Dancer all made their presence felt, as broodmare sires at the recently held National Yearling Sale.

The Redoute’s Choice sired Gr2 Camellia Stakes winner Honorine is the dam of 2024 National Sale topper Man Of His Word (Gimmethegreenlight), who was knocked down for R6 000 000 last week. Already the dam of both Protea Prince and Japanese Rose, the well related Honorine, a three-parts sister to the Redoute’s Choice sired Gr1 performer Military Expert, hails from a remarkable family responsible not only for the ill-fated Cheltenham star Best Mate (Un Desperado) but also the likes of French classic winners Almanzor (Wootton Bassett) and Darjina (Zamindar) among others.

Dansili’s Gr2 Betting World 1900/Gr2 Ipi Tombe Challenge winning daughter Espumanti, already dam of the July winning Equus Champion Sparkling Water (Silvano), made headlines at the National Sale when her Hawwaam colt Sparkling Rose was knocked down to the Hollywood Syndicate at the National Sale, while the Danehill Dancer mare Miss Khaya had a colt by The United States fetch R425 000 at the auction.

MULLINS ON CUSP OF MODERN HISTORY

Willie Mullins struck a potentially decisive blow at Ayr in the UK trainers’ championship when Macdermott (18/1) won a thrilling renewal of the Coral Scottish Grand National.

The six-year-old could be seen travelling strongly, a few lengths off the leaders, under the trainer’s nephew Danny Mullins. He was in front two out and from there it was a straight shootout with 20/1 runner-up Surrey Quest, with never more than half-a-length between the pair.

At the line, the commentator could not split them, and the judge took four minutes to separate the principals.

During the post-race celebrations, Mullins admitted he feared the worst as the front two

crossed the line, saying: “I thought we were beaten, but then one of my owners opened up the betting on his app and we were favourite, and the second horse was 14-1. The odds changed a bit in their favour, but then the result came out.”

He told Racing TV: “To me, the way he jumped was spectacular, I’d have no problem aiming him for Aintree next year or for the Irish National, we’ll see but we’ll be aiming for all those chases. He’s got age on his side, so it’s fantastic. He just got experience every day he went out; we started him off at two miles and just kept running him for experience, because he hasn’t got runs under his belt and last year it took me all season to get him fit enough.”

Reflecting on the dramatic contest Mullins observed: “We had one go before the first and one fall at the first, then we had two up the front

Ayr Racecourse – the battleground for the UK trainers’ championship | Credit: Ayr Racecourse

and two out the back, so I said, ‘well we’ve both ends of the race covered’.”

“The two up fronts finished first and fourth and Spanish Harlem came on to be sixth, so he ran a great race and there’s going to be a good race in him too. The sun’s out, it’s a fantastic crowd and it’s just turned out to be an amazing day.”

The feature wasn’t the only success for the Closutton based powerhouse, with stable

jockey Paul Townend striking aboard Sharjah, Chosen Witness and finally Quai De Bourbon.

The 4462/1 four-timer moved Mullins almost £180,000 clear of Dan Skelton at the top of the British jump’s trainers’ championship. With a week to go, bookmakers now make the 17-time Irish National Hunt Champion trainer 1/50 to be the first Irish-trainer to land the British crown since the great Vincent O’Brien 70 years go.

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100 UP FOR ZACKEY

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Mauritzfontein-sponsored jockey Craig Zackey became the fifth SA rider this term to reach the 100 winner marker when he booted Green Isle to victory for Milnerton veteran Eric Sands in the fifth race at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday.

The Khaya Stables retained jockey raised his bat after an inspired ride to get the hanging out Green Isle home to register her maiden win at her eighth start.

The red-hot Richard Fourie could have been forgiven for thinking he had the race in the bag on Sansa Stark, but Zackey let his mount drift towards the outside rail, and then pushed her out to get the verdict by half a length in a time of 102,48 secs for the mile.

The winner races in the internationally renowned yellow and black of Mauritzfontein and is a home-bred by Gimmethegreenlight (More Than Ready) out of the Fastnet Rock mare, Carraig Aonnair.

Trainer Eric Sands confirmed that

the winner is not a quirky sort, and that her hanging behaviour is a result of being slightly ‘mouthy’.

Zackey joins the 2023/24 season centurion quintet of Richard Fourie (258), Muzi Yeni (147), Gavin Lerena (119) and Calvin Habib (108) this season. Ed – correct as per Saturday evening.

A cucumber cool and talented jockey, Craig Zackey had no idea he was on the cusp of 100 winners today.

“I’m not a numbers guy. I look for the big races. But it’s a great feeling – I just wish it was doubled,” he laughed.

He was the National Champion Apprentice in the 2014/2015 season, riding 58 winners, and scarped through the 100 winner mark the following season, riding 101 winners.

Zackey’s best season was 138 winners, and that milestone looks very attainable this term, with over three months left.

Craig Zackey gives

happy salute | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

BREAKING NEW GROUND BY BELIEVING

George Boughey has quickly established himself as one of the most ambitious trainers on the global stage and the Briton will bid for his own slice of history when saddling Believing for the HK$22 million Gr1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize at Sha Tin on Sunday 28 April.

Boughey, who is in his sixth domestic season, has already speared a British Classic courtesy of Cachet’s Gr1 1,000 Guineas strike in 2022 and is an established name in Europe and the Middle East. He will bid for a ground-breaking first win in Hong Kong on 28 April.

“It has never been done and it might never be done, but I’m really interested to give it a go,”

the trainer, 32, said. “I’m not underestimating the task we’re setting ourselves but I’m looking forward to it. It’s the most prize money I think we’ve run for and that’s key.

“I think it’s almost the pinnacle of racing to travel horses. It’s something I’ve set out to do and the racing is almost perfect in Hong Kong. It’s always fascinated me. They’ve been fantastic in inviting us and we’re looking forward to it.”

In Believing, who came within three quarters of a length of striking in the Gr1 Sprint Cup at Haydock in September, Boughey has a fascinating contender.

Believing is Group 1 placed in Great Britain | Credit: HKJC

“Statistically, two or three of her best efforts have come around a bend on fast ground and there’s not many chances to do that in England. Watching her train on fast ground and looking at her action, she hardly picks her feet up, so I think she’s best suited to fast ground,” he said.

Believing only turned four at the turn of the year and Boughey is confident she has more to offer at the elite level this campaign. He has his sights on trips to Royal Ascot and the Breeders’ Cup now she’s at her physical and mental peak, with no issues anticipated ahead of her scheduled flight to Hong Kong on 19 April.

“She had her quirks earlier in her career,” he said. “She used to kick the horsebox the whole way to the races and now she stands as quiet as a lamb. She’s maturing and she’s much better in the gates than she used to be. All the signs are right that she should be able to handle the journey and the event. This year she looks like a different filly, she’s got a full summer coat and she’s glowing.”

It is easy to draw comparisons between Believing and Boughey’s former stable star Cachet, who also ran in the pale blue silks of Highclere Racing, and hopes are high the owners’ latest star can deliver a victory of similar magnitude.

“She lives in Cachet’s box and she has a very similar attitude,” the trainer said. “She’s got a low head carriage, wants fast ground and is fast. They were both bought from the same sale and run for Highclere. She’s got to go and do it, but all the suggestions are that she may well have improved again.”

Despite the absence of reigning champion Lucky Sweynesse, Believing will still face four Group 1 winners in the Chairman’s Sprint Prize.

Al Quoz Sprint winner California Spangle will bid to make a victorious return to his home city against Japan’s Takamatsunomiya Kinen

winner Mad Cool, January’s Centenary Sprint Cup hero Victor The Winner and the Blue Diamond Stakes winner Little Brose, who will make his Hong Kong debut.

However, Boughey is keen to seize the lucrative opportunity and believes the likely setup of the race will play to the strengths of his strong-staying filly.

Assessing the opposition, he said: “California Spangle has been a miler and they’ll be looking to make plenty of use of him, and the stronger the pace for us the better.

“There’s a couple of Japanese horses in there and Victor The Winner, who was third in the Takamatsunomiya Kinen the other day. It’s a Group 1 and we’ve got to give it the respect, but I wouldn’t be sending her if I didn’t think she had a legitimate chance.”

George Boughey is chasing history in Hong Kong Credit: HKJC

MASSIVE SOVEREIGN IS DOING IT RIGHT

Unbeaten after a meteoric start to his Hong Kong career, Massive Sovereign tuned up for the HK$28 million Gr1 FWD QEII Cup at Sha Tin on 28 April with an eye-catching Happy Valley trial last Friday.

Allowed to settle at the tail of the field by Zac Purton, the BMW Hong Kong Derby winner scythed along the inside of the 10-horse field to finish second behind Senor Toba, who clocked 1m 50.30s over 1700m.

“Massive Sovereign did everything right, as he always does. Cruised around, enjoyed it and pulled up well,” Purton said of Dennis Yip’s former Irish galloper, who will challenge fellow BMW Hong Kong Derby victor and six-time Group 1 winner Romantic Warrior on Sunday week.

“He feels good and he’s come through his run well. Dennis gave him a nice little break after the Derby. He’s been blowing a little bit in his work, so it was nice that we had the opportunity to trial him this morning.

“The FWD QEII Cup is an opportunity to see how he stacks up against those horses. There was nowhere else for him to go, so he has to take that step and hopefully he’s able to. We’ve got to get him to the race, in the race and see how he measures up.

Massive Sovereign stretches out at Happy Valley last Friday | Credit: HKJC

“On ratings he’s a long way off them but he’s only at the start of his career and the other horses have been around for a while.”

Yip is content with Massive Sovereign, who advanced to a stunning Derby victory after a spectacular debut win at Sha Tin on 3 March.

“I’m very happy. I think he’s still improving. This morning after the trial, Zac reported to me that the horse go quite easy. Purton didn’t ask him to go, but the horse still wanted to go in the straight. It was easy work – very easy.

“I think there will be two more gallops for him –one on the grass, not too hard, just easy,” Yip said.

Caspar Fownes says Straight Arron has coped well with his return to Hong Kong after a fine sixth in the Gr1 Dubai Turf at Meydan on 30 March and is shaping well for the FWD QEII Cup after finishing seventh in a 1200m trial this morning behind Storming Dragon in 1m 13.46s.

“Just brought him out on the track with a nice bit of give in it this morning and decided to trial him over 1200m just to keep him on the fresh side and I was happy with it. He closed off nicely,” Fownes said.

“Everything is good, he’s in good form. Obviously, it’s going to be a little bit tough when they don’t have much of a break between runs and travelling back and all that but he’s in good form, his coat is very shiny, so he presents well that way – you just have to hope he brings it to the races.”

David Hayes-trained Little Brose will tackle the HK$22 million Gr1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize after finishing seventh over 1200m in the third batch of trials behind Packing Power (1m 13.24s).

“He’s an interesting horse, he comes to Hong Kong with a good reputation overseas as the winner of a Group One (Blue Diamond Stakes, 1200m for two-year-olds), so he’s a really good horse and he gives you a good feel when you’re sitting on him,” Teetan said.

“He’s in good shape, but it’s a tough ask for him. The Sprint, with Lucky Sweynesse being out, California Spangle is going to be the horse that stands out but among the other Hong Kong horses, it’s really open.

“So, if he gets the right run and he goes to the races feeling good, he’s going to be an interesting runner.”

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STALWART CAPE OWNER PASSES AWAY

The Sporting Post regrets to report the recent passing of longstanding Cape owner Mrs Mary Zoccola.

Mrs Zoccola won the Met in 1981 with Queen’s Elect.

She raced a number of very decent horses over many decades, including Django, Gamlingsgay and Gin Rummy.

Our condolences are extended to her family and friends.

Queen’s Elect (late Kenny Michel) is led in by Piet Steyn and Mary Zoccola after winning the 1982 Alderman Abe Bloomberg Handicap | Credit: Supplied