SP Sprint Wednesday 25 October 2023

Wednesday 25 October 2023

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CONTENTS

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BOKS, CHARITY & RACING – ROLL ON SATURDAY! 06 Turffontein – A Big Day At The Races Charity the big winner

12 Devil’s In The Detail

Who remembers this champion?

16 Tarry’s Comet Soars Impressive!

22 It’s Called Raising The Bar Sunday sale enjoys rave reviews

36 Piet’s Daring To Dream Former jockey’s dazzling run

On the cover

Dare 2 Dream stables’ Piet Botha and jockey Richard Fourie celebrate a thrilling win for Tyrion Lannister in the opener at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday. Image is courtesy of Chase Liebenberg.

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THIS IS GOING TO BE A HUMDINGER 6 | 25 OCTOBER 2023

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In what has been billed in some quarters as the sophomore clash of the year, and a possible preliminary to the R2 million Hollywoodbets Gr1 Cape Guineas in the on 16 December, generation leaders Sandringham Summit and Main Defender have drawn alongside each other in the R400 000 Betway Gr3 Graham Beck Stakes to be run at Turffontein on Saturday.

The exciting Main Defender – the drawcard at Turffontein on Saturday | Credit: JC Photos 25 OCTOBER 2023 | 7

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The two 3yo’s stand out head and shoulders in the eleven horse field for the classic yardstick to be raced over 1400m on Allied Steelrode Onamission Charity Mile day.

Trained by David Nieuwenhuizen, the Varsfontein bred Gimmethegreenlight flyer Sandringham Summit has his first start this term after beating Main Defender in the World Pool Moment Of The Day Gr1 Champion Stakes at Hollywoodbets Greyville at the end of last season.

Sandringham Summit stepping out on his home course for the first time over a trip around the turn.

He also has to give his rival a kilo.

A winner of 4 of his 5 starts, Tony P eter’s Main Defender comes in with the benefit of a race under the belt after slamming a quality field of older horses in the Betway Gr2 Joburg Spring Challenge at Turffontein earlier this month.

He has been priced up favourite by Hollywoodbets.

The Jagessar bred son of Sandown Distorted Humor stallion Pathfork will again be ridden by Kabelo Matsunyane.

Having won the Durban Gr2 Golden Horseshoe at his previous outing, also at Hollywoodbets Greyville, the Charity Mile day clash will see

A field of 16 plus 1 reserve accepted for the headline Allied Steelrode G2 Charity Mile on the same day.

The Sandringham Summit connections could well be smiling again on Saturday | Credit: Candiese Lenferna 8 | 25 OCTOBER 2023

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IN THE NAME OF CHARITY! The Charity Mile is now worth a cool R1 million and the final field boasts a stellar lineup, including 2022 Summer Cup winner Puerto Manzano, 2023 Hollywoodbets Durban July hero Winchester Mansion, dual Charity Mile winner Bingwa, Equus Champion 3yo Filly Bless My Stars and Equus Champion Stayer Future Pearl, among others.

Johan Janse van Vuuren’s runners bookend the field with Mr & Mrs C R Stonebridge’s Bingwa,

going for what will be a historic third win, in pole position, while Messrs J F & L M F Wernars & Mrs T J Wernars’ Puerto Manzano drew widest of all.

Winchester Mansion drew 12.

A grand total of twenty-one charities are associated with this year’s event, all of which will benefit a minimum of R20,000.

The draws and Charity pairings are as follows:-

The Charity paired with the winning horse will receive R100,000; the charity paired with the 2nd place finisher will receive R75,000; the third place finisher will earn their Charity R50,000 and the fourth horse across the line R35,000 for theirs. The remaining 17 charities will each receive a donation of R20,000.

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History shows, it not uncommon for excellence in a pedigree to skip a generation Devilish Dancer arrives back at Hadlow | Credit: Supplied

THE DEVIL’S IN THE DAZZLING DETAIL! This weekend it will be a dozen years since Pierre Jourdan made light of his 61 kg impost to land the Gr2 Charity Mile at Turffontein at his second attempt.

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An eye-catching fifth, and the fastest finisher of all, was undoubtedly St John Gray’s homebred champion Dancewiththedevil, who had cornered stone last but closed fast on the outside to finish five lengths behind the winner.

That effort served as a perfect prep for the Gr1 Sansui Summer Cup four weeks later, where the mare turned the tables and exacted a handsome revenge under similar tactics.

Patiently ridden from behind, she turned for home in her customary last position but made smooth progress in the straight, picking off her rivals one by one. Unleashing her trademark turn of foot, she gained the advantage inside the final furlong and powered home to win with plenty in hand.

That was a fourth Gr1 success for the mare, who at four, had established herself as arguably the season’s leading miler with a fine Gr1 treble in the Horse Chestnut, Empress Club Stakes and Gold Challenge, an achievement which earned her a deserved accolade of the Equus Champion Older Filly/Mare.

Dancewiththedevil would add a fifth Gr1 success to her tally when she defended her HF Oppenheimer crown at her favourite racetrack.

Once again, she turned on the afterburners in the straight and it was race over, as she surged into the lead en route to another awesome victory, her winning margin of over three lengths flattering her star-studded male rivals.

The lure of an overseas campaign resulted in Dancewiththedevil’s export to the UK, where she managed just one start for Newmarket trainer Roger Varian. Rising seven at the time, that was to be her first outing in 14 months and not surprisingly, she finished unplaced.

She never raced again and returned to South Africa to start her new life as a broodmare at her birthplace, Hadlow Stud.

Sadly, her second career didn’t match the excitements of her feats on the track and she died all too early at age 14, leaving just four foals, all fillies.

Champion Dancewiththedevil wins the Sansui Summer Cup | Credit: Supplied

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Lady Luck certainly did not smile on the champion’s broodmare innings, considering that her first foal, a filly by Silvano, died of colic, while her last foal fractured a hock and never raced.

In between she produced Devilish Dancer to Silvano and Risky Business to his barnmate Querari. Like their mother, both raced in the Gray silks, the former scoring twice whilst Risky Business has won once and is still in training.

While Dancewiththedevil is no more, Devilish Dancer has returned to the Hadlow broodmare paddocks, where she has joined the mare’s unraced last foal Seek Permission, by Gimmethegreenlight. Hadlow Stud’s Cathy Martin fondly refers to them as “my Devil children, and I love them both.”

She added: “This is the first breeding season for both of them. Devilish Dancer has been covered by Chimichuri Run. She looks just like Mom and is a horse with a wonderful temperament. Seek Permission was in utero when Dancewiththedevil got sick, so she was raised by a foster mother. She is in foal to Eden Roc.” The disappointment of Dancewiththedevil’s broodmare record shouldn’t diminish the bright memory of her racing achievements, besides, as history shows, it not uncommon for excellence in a pedigree to skip a generation.

Let’s hope this remarkable racemare’s daughters will do their bit to maintain family honours.

Devilish Dancer and Seek Permission in the paddock | Credit: Supplied

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TAIL – THIS IS SURELY JUST THE BEGINNING! After the post! Richard Fourie and Tail Of The Comet soar clear | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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While he has followed a different route to some of his contemporaries, Sean Tarry’s Tail Of The Comet, who has an uncanny Jet Master stamp about him, put his hand up as a genuine Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas prospect with a smooth and emotional victory at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday.

A standout on form in the 1400m contest restricted to eligible graduates of the 2022 CRS Ready To Run Sales, the Gr2 placed Tail Of The Comet gave his connections and legion of supporters a few moments of anxiety, before getting his act together in the fashion of a horse with classic pretensions.

Richard Fourie was clearly the man we would all have chosen to rectify any challenges that would arise at the colt’s first start in the Cape.

The outstanding Winning Form rider is as calm as the proverbial cucumber and said that the work had been good.

“He was slightly sluggish out – I liked the fact that he didn’t overrace. I made a bold choice to pull him out and I got lucky. I thought I went too soon on him but he’s turn of foot is phenomenal. I’m learning about him still – he’s an interesting horse for me,” chirped the man who had just booted home his third winner of the day.

A popular winner, Tail Of The Comet beat fellow Highvelder Just Be Lekker (11-2) by an official 4,25 lengths in a time of 83,45 secs – or the numerically fascinating 123,45 secs!

Recent maiden winner Sail To The Moon (40-1) was a length back in third.

Bred by Hassen Adams’ Nadeson Park Stud, Tail Of The Comet is a son of Gimmethegreenlight (More Than Ready) out of the three-time winning Jet Master mare, Comet Chaser, who raced in the Adams silks.

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He has now won 3 of 4 starts for a place and stakes of R450 625.

Tarry paid R425 000 for Tail Of The Comet at the 2022 Cape Ready To Run Sale.

The athletic bay was apparently on a shortlist of five horses given to him by owner George O’Brien last year.

“We narrowed it down to two and were fortunate to secure him. George and I partnered with Gary Harvett, and Arun Chadha’s ASSM Racing Syndicate joined after the Gold Cup meeting.”

Part owner Warne Rippon, who has raced some outstanding horses over his years, was making his first visit to the ‘country club’ as he labelled the country course.

He told of an emotional connection to Tail Of The Comet.

“My late Dad loved Sun Classique and my Mom, who is very ill in palliative care at Constantiaberg, loved Tail Of The Comet’s name and got a twinkle in her eye when we spoke about getting involved. It’s a very emotional time,” he added.

Part owner Warne Rippon – an emotional time at his maiden visit to Hollywoodbets Durbanville | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS!

Last Saturday’s memorable RWC semi final between England and the Boks at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Fan Park was absolutely amazing and the crowd was massive.

This Saturday history will be made, once again!

Springboks as they aim for back-to-back World Cup glory in this high-stakes showdown at Hollywoodbets Greyville.

It’s an evening of camaraderie, celebration, and unforgettable memories.

The final will be broadcast on the massive screens. Kick-off is at 21H00, but they’re opening the gates at 18h00 so make sure to arrive early to secure your spot and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.

The Lightning Shot Bar is ready to serve icecold beverages, and don’t forget about the Happy Hour from 18h00 to 20h00 to kick-start the celebrations!

For those seeking a little retail therapy until the kick-off, try The Market inside the Champions Room. An array of delectable food, snacks, and a variety of products is available for purchase.

A Live DJ will keep the party going from 18h00 to 22h00 and during half-time, ensuring nonstop entertainment.

This event is perfect for the whole family, so bring your loved ones and support the

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NOW FOR THE PREMIER SALE IN JANUARY Topselling colt was One World’s son, One Stripe (#48) | Credit: Wayne Marks

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Buoyed by a wave of positivity permeating every nook and cranny of local racing, coupled with the pulsating victory of Sean Tarry’s 2022 graduate Tail Of The Comet in the associated sales race on Saturday, the second Cape Racing Sales Ready To Run & Unbroken 2yo Sale broke new ground on a sundrenched afternoon at its traditional Hollywoodbets Durbanville home on Sunday.

While all the talk was of Tail Of The Comet’s eyecatching win in the R600 000 CRS Ready To Run Stakes at the same venue on Saturday – and let’s not underestimate the impact of the Springboks’ great escape against England less than 24 hours earlier – there was inspired bidding after some outstanding gallops early on Sunday morning.

Described by one buyer as a tangible show of a ‘new level of professionalism and commitment’, with impressive attention to detail to the hospitality aspect that included catering and the top-class marquee, the sale was a featherin-the cap for Justin Vermaak and his team, and an encouraging precursor to the CRS Cape Premier Yearling Sale on 25 January 2024 in WSB Cape Town Met week.

After hastily convening last year’s equivalent sale at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, following the sudden closure of Cape Thoroughbred Sales, the Cape Racing Sales team saw that the introduction of their various attractive incentives and initiatives in the ensuing year, coupled with the inspiring local ‘Racing Renaissance’, provided the momentum for a next-level stepup and a record-breaking afternoon that saw the year-on-year aggregate up 10,7% to R18 670 000, with similar numbers through the ring.

Sunday’s average of R222 262 was up 13,4% on 2022, while the median of R165 000 most encouragingly showed a 43% increase on 12 months ago.

MJ thriller! Bakkies bid-spotter in action Credit: Wayne Marks

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The recent adverse weather led to the unfortunate withdrawal of Nadeson Park’s draft of 13 horses, and of the 112 originally catalogued, 89 went through the ring with 84 of them finding a buyer.

Veteran Milnerton trainer Vaughan Marshall signed for the top-selling lot (#48) when he went to R1,4 million (last year topseller was R1,1 million) to acquire a handsome son of his 2020 Met winner One World (Captain Al) out of a Spook Express Handicap-winning sister to the Gr3 Winter Derby winner, Gifted For Glory.

The smashing colt was consigned by Julia Pilbeam’s Soetendal Estate, who have really and truly established themselves as the market leaders in prepping horses for this category of sale.

Julia Pilbeam told the Sporting Post that that they could not have done it without their outstanding staff, her loyal clients, and the professional support of the CRS Team.

“I can say without hesitation that the entire show was a step-up from 2022 and we are proud to have consigned both the top colt and top filly! To Vaughan Marshall and Sandy Arundel, congratulations – they are two really smart horses and we will be following their progress with great interest. To all the buyers and underbidders, our sincere thanks. You all made the sale a massive success,” added an exhausted Julia.

Owner Sandy Arundel and her husband Eugene have become a force to be reckoned with in the ‘relatively newbie’ owner ranks, and they added to their powerful string when acquiring the topselling filly (#64), a daughter of reigning champion sire Gimmethegreelight out of the well-related Varsity Girl (Var), for R800 00 (last year female topseller was R750 000).

She was also consigned, as mentioned, as agent by Soetendal Estate.

Topselling filly was Gimmethegreenlight’s unnamed daughter (#64) | Credit: Wayne Marks

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With the power of numbers, Soetendal unsurprisingly led the vendor charts, selling 29 lots at a gross R6 920 000 and averaging R238 621.

The Ridgemont team brought genuine quality to the table, and their 10 grossed R2 125 000, at an average of R212 500.

The ever-reliable Klawervlei were right on their heels, with their 8 lots banking R1 520 000 at an average of R190 000.

Six buyers were responsible for 26 lots, led

by Tony Peter, who saddles the exciting Main Defender in the Betway Graeme Beck Stakes on Charity Mile day this coming Saturday. The Turffontein trainer took home a basket of 6, spending R890 000 at an average of R148 333.

The Hollywood Syndicate picked up 5 lots for a shade under a million, averaging R198 000 each.

Sandy Arundel, Glen Kotzen Racing and Bass Racing bought a quartet apiece, while Vaughan Marshall topped the averages, with his trio

costing R1 670 000 – a healthy average of R556 667.

Drakenstein’s multiple Gr1 winning Captain Al stallion One World was the top grossing sire, with his quintet grossing R2 030 000 at a R406 000 average.

SA champion Gimmethegreenlight topped the averages with his trio averaging R575 000 at a gross of R1 725 000.

Other stallions in demand were The United States, Canford Cliffs, Fire Away, What A Winter, and the Maine Chance duo of Vercingetorix and Querari, while the top-class Trippi’s sole representative sold for R375 000.

THE SPRINT IS INTERACTIVE CLICK AND HAVE A LOOK AT WHO BOUGHT WHICH LOT

Milnerton trainer Adam Marcus was at the sale | Credit: Wayne Marks

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Auctioneers Andrew Miller and Tom Hodgson | Credit: Wayne Marks

The buyers were out in force | Credit: Wayne Marks

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DELIGHTED VERMAAK ON THE SALE Justin Vermaak, Racing Operations and Bloodstock Executive for Cape Racing, said he was delighted with the overall aggregate of R18,670,000, an increase of 10,7% in 2022, supported by a terrific 43% increase in the median (R120,000 to R165,000), and a hike of 13,4% in the average price (R200,174 to R222,262).

Vermaak commented: “The median alone is an important figure for sales performance. It was heartwarming to see a diverse bench of buyers, which included the former stalwart Ebrahim Khan, whose brown-and-white silks

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were hugely prominent in the early 2000’s with runners like Elusive Fort. He is back after a long absence and bought three nice lots.

“We are also pleased with the strong participation of the Cape’s leading trainers, including Justin Snaith, Candice BassRobinson, Glen Kotzen and Vaughan Marshall, while the smaller yards like Greg Ennion and Piet Steyn were also well supported via syndicate buys. Many of the two-year-olds purchased will stay in the Cape, which is great for us.”

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WE CAN’T WAIT FOR SUMMER! Block D – transformation! | Credit: Supplied

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Cape Racing’s Summer Season of Champions is almost here! The seven-feature race extravaganza promises a rebirth of the elegance and glamour of a bygone era, coupled with the thrill and excitement that horse racing delivers.

The Racing Renaissance will usher in the first phase of a new look Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, which is undergoing massive renovations over the next few years, with the vision of becoming a ground-breaking lifestyle destination that will be a first for the African continent.

Donovan Everitt, the Chief Operating Officer of Cape Racing, says: “Cape Racing is thrilled to introduce the 2023/2024 Cape Summer Season of Champions, aptly themed ‘The Racing Renaissance’. The Cape Summer Season of Champions is the start of a new era of lifestyle experiences at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, with much more still to come.”

“Our commitment to innovation is evident in this first phase, as visitors will see with the state-of-the-art digital screens that are being installed throughout the building and on the course – including one of the largest outdoor screens in the country – and upgraded sound throughout the venue, designed to uplift the event and racing experiences, and creating a world-class audiovisual experience that has never been seen before.”

“Stay tuned for more innovation as we gear up to introduce an exciting Sports and Entertainment Experience with our Sportstainment offering during phase two in the upcoming year.”

Cape Racing Chairman Greg Bortz expands on the vision for the iconic venue: “Developments are underway for a 365-day-ayear, 24/7 lifestyle and entertainment complex, where the sport and stakeholders will benefit, as well as the local community.”

Hollywoodbets Kenilworth – recognize the punter’s lounge? | Credit: Supplied

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Pulsating racing action in the pipeline | Credit: Supplied

“The focus will be on a secure and convenient lifestyle centre of excellence, structured around horseracing and providing culinary, sporting and entertainment experiences, conferencing, and event facilities in the near future. Cape Turf Club members will enjoy privileges and access beyond racing events and benefit from all on offer. The Cape Summer Season of Champions is just a prelude to a new era in the industry.”

With most of the Season’s events free and open to the public, the series provides the perfect family-friendly entertainment. Highlights on the Summer Season of Champions include the L’Ormarins King’s Plate on January 6th and the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met – Cape Splendour on January 27th, both of which will be ticketed events.

But the season offers plenty of other options to enjoy all the action at no cost, so mark your calendars for the following: 26 November – Cape Punters Cup: Join us as we jump out the gates into a new era of racing that blends tradition and innovation with the start of the Cape Summer Season of Champions. Prepare for an adrenaline rush as horse racing takes centre stage and delivers excitement like never before. Highlights include Food Trucks, Kids Zone, Live Music, and Horse Racing. FREE ENTRY

02 December – World Sports Betting Cape Fillies Guineas: Celebrate the grace and power of thoroughbred horses as we embrace the spirit of elegance and speed at the first Grade 1 race of the season with the World Sports Betting Cape Fillies Guineas. Indulge your taste buds with a delectable array of culinary delights, from gourmet treats to local flavours. The event is family-friendly, with a dedicated kids’ area to ensure that even the youngest guests have a blast. Highlights: Food Trucks, Kids Zone, Live Music, Horse Racing. FREE ENTRY 10 December – Cape Merchants: Cape Town Festival of Beer celebrates local and global brewing heritage and craft.

Featuring more than 200 beers, this is the premier celebration of all things beer and will be the biggest yet. Experience the horse racing of the Cape Merchants Race while enjoying local brews and live music—highlights: Food Trucks, Kids Zone, Live Music, Horse Racing, and 60+ Local Breweries. Entry is free to the racecourse for those wanting to watch the races. Tickets will be required for the festival.

FREE ENTRY TO THE RACECOURSE

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16 December – Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas: Immerse yourself in Cape Town’s rich cultural heritage at the Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas Day, where the essence of the Mother City comes alive through thrilling Grade 1 horse racing, performances by the Kaapse Klopse, traditional Cape Town cuisine and a colourful festival that’s perfect for the whole family.

Highlights: Food Trucks, Kids Zone, Live Music, Horse Racing, Kaapse Klopse. FREE ENTRY 06 January – L’Ormarins King’s Plate: Showcase your elegant blue and white outfits and capture those stylish L’Ormarins King’s Plate moments that epitomise the 163rd LKP race day that ends with a stylish party.

Highlights: Food, Live Music, Horse Racing, Best Dressed competition with amazing prizes.

TICKETS ON SALE SOON https:// lormarinskingsplate.co.za/ for more information 27 January – World Sports Betting Cape Town Met: The 2024 edition of the World Sports Betting Cape Town MET is themed “Cape Splendour”,

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which encapsulates the breath-taking beauty and unique charm of Cape Town and celebrates its natural wonders, cultural heritage, and vibrant spirit. This will be a bigger, better Cape Town Met with a red carpet to show off those spectacular outfits; dress in your best Cape Town flair, drawing inspiration from the city’s landscapes, colours, and history.

Highlights: Gourmet Food & Food Trucks, Picnics, VIP Hospitality, Live Music, Horse Racing, Best Dressed Competition, Betting into the World Pool.

TICKETS FROM TICKETPRO: https://bit. ly/3LVwxF7 24 February – SplashOut Cape Town Seafood & Jazz Racing Festival: Welcome to an exciting fusion of Grade 1 horse racing, entertainment, and indulgence at the SplashOut Cape Derby: Seafood & Jazz Festival! Set against the illustrious Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse backdrop, this event promises soulful jazz melodies, a delectable seafood feast, heart-pounding horse racing, and endless entertainment for the entire family. Highlights: Gourmet Food & Food Trucks, Live Music, Horse Racing. FREE ENTRY.

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The Dare 2 Dream team lead their big winner in | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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While every winner has always been celebrated like a Grade 1 success at the family friendly operation, it was their first syndicate winner at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday that demonstrated the unbridled joy of racehorse ownership, and had post-race interviewer Vicky Minott considering putting in for some overtime!

The first of four winners for the outstanding Richard Fourie on the sundrenched afternoon, the Millstream Farm-bred Royal Mo colt Tyrion Lannister overcame a wide gate in the opener to break his maiden at his seventh start. He has earned along the way, so has been a terrific starter for the new owners.

The athletic galloper, who was first sighted by Piet Botha at Millstream and then purchased at the Cape Yearling Sale in 2022, did things the hard way from the front, at his first sight of the country course.

Piet tells the Sporting Post that he fancied Tyrion Lannister, who alongside fellow syndicator Sansa Stark, was named by his son Aidan, who is clearly something of a Game Of Thrones fan!

“It’s human nature, I suppose. The anxiety creeps in when one invites 14 owners and they arrive on course with great expectations. One starts thinking of the wide draw, the fact that he had not run in 13 weeks, and then his ability to cope with the track. Not quite Springbok supporter nerves maybe, but you know what I mean,” laughs the likeable Piet, who always has time for the media – and, probably more importantly, answers his phone.

The top-class horseman believes the fact that his charge was seeing Hollywoodbets Durbanville for the first time actually worked in their favour.

“Once he was out front he didn’t grab a hold and was pricking his ears and having a looksee! So he relaxed beautifully and Richard

A thrilled Piet Botha | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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Tyrion Lannister (Richard Fourie) beats Igugulethu (Aldo Domeyer) and Unicorn Alert (Grant van Niekerk) Credit: Chase Liebenberg

always judges things so beautifully!” he adds.

Fourie, who is embroiled in a friendly brawl with colleague Muzi Yeni at the top of the national log, has ridden 3 of the 4 Botha winners over the past week.

“I called his agent Ken Nicol. I said the ride is available if Richard is. We got lucky!” adds Piet.

We put it to him that securing the services of a jockey of Richard Fourie’s talent, must be a boon for a small yard.

“I don’t think the size of the yard matters – big or small yard, it’s a pleasure having Richard aboard. It was his first race-ride on the 3yo.

But he always listens – I’d hardly call it instructions. And then he knows what to do. He’s a thinker and can make trainers look good!”

Piet and his wife Nicole bravely took the plunge with just nine horses out of the Dare 2 Dream Stable’s Barn 9 at Milnerton in August 2018.

They have been innovators, offering a holistic experience of fun, transparency and thrills to new owners, after moving into their new accommodation at Milnerton last year.

Ironically, despite training many more winners, his string has shrunk slightly and now numbers 27.

“Post covid, it has not been an easy economy.

And many guys, who could maybe spend money buying horses, have had to rein in.

Nicole and I were also feeding too many of our own horses. So we are operating leaner, but never meaner! I have no doubt that larger partnerships and syndicates are the way to bring in new owners.”

So after deciding a year ago that he could not keep relying on his traditionally loyal clientele to always be buying him horses, Piet launched his first syndicate with two decent horses he felt would give the new owners some fun.

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“Look at the joy in the winner’s enclosure on Saturday! Wow. That gave me more pleasure than winning a feature race, just experiencing what enjoyment our owners were feeling.

Couple that with the fact that we encourage owners and prospective owners to join us at our yard and enjoy the social and family experience of being part of the sport, and I still feel we are onto a winner,” he adds sincerely.

At the age of 48, and with five Cape winters of training horses behind him since calling it a day as a jockey in 2017, Piet is one of the most sincere and genuine men in the game.

On Sunday Piet was at Hollywoodbets Durbanville for the CRS Ready To Run & Unbroken 2yo Sale, with plans to buy a few nice horses to boost his string.

“We are thrilled with our achievement of four winners in a week and will enjoy and treasure the moment. I am also a realist though, and I think we took our chances at the right time, and I may not always be readily competing against the real hard-knockers at the height of the season. But we are always out to find the Grade 1 winners and to keep improving our performance.”

“We don’t have an open cheque-book, so we always set our limits. But, I was lucky. I managed to buy the one beautiful filly that I had set my heart on. She’s a staying type, but, in my opinion she will win early and is quite an exciting prospect. We will be putting her together, if anybody is interested in getting involved!”

His answer to our question as to whether we can expect the Botha winning run to continue in the summer, sort of highlights his no-frills salt of the earth approach.

Interested in chatting about getting involved?

Contact Piet Botha on +27 73 122 4874 / email dare2dreamracing@gmail.com

THEY DARED 2 DREAM! Nicole Botha John Vertue Nicky Vertue Kaamilah Finch John Steytler Elizabeth Pilbeam Gregory Hart

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Hilton Yutar Gary van den Berg Nicole van den Berg Peter De Beyer Leigh De Beyer Ricky Collins Dev Naidoo

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AZZIE’S KISS FROM A ROSE!

Kiss Me Captain (Richard Fourie) surges clear to beat Countdown and Raymond Danielson | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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While his veteran champion trainer Dad is looking after their Randjesfontein HQ, up-and-coming trainer Adam Azzie made the perfect start to the family operation’s Cape summer campaign with Kiss Me Captain’s impressive victory in the R200 000 Listed Southeaster Sprint at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday.

While the notorious Southeaster wind, or ‘Cape Doctor’ as it’s known by locals, is as much a part of life in the Mother City as bobotie and koeksisters, it is not a regular feature at the country course.

But it added to the homebaked ambience on Saturday, with the day’s only stakes feature named in honour of the ‘breeze that booms’.

By the time of the running of the Listed Southeaster Sprint, the wind speed had dissipated from earlier in the afternoon and it wasn’t a factor as Richard Fourie bounced Kiss Me Captain into lead 200m from home and the smart 4yo accelerated well to register her fifth win from just 10 starts.

Clocking a nippy 57,39 secs, Kiss Me Captain (15-4) beat the talented Countdown by half a length, with the bound-for-stud Kwinta’s Light

(8-1) coming on late a further 1,25 lengths, to shade Mr Cobbs (11-2) into fourth.

The victory allowed Richard Fourie (65 winners) to take the lead over Muzi Yeni on the SA national jockey championship log, for the first time this term.

Kiss Me Captain was bred by the late Kevin Soal and has now won 5 races from 10 starts with 3 places for stakes of R491 750.

A daughter of champion sprinter Captain Of All (Captain Al), she is out of the one-time winning Caesour mare, Bearing Strait.

If our records are correct, this was the first Cape win for the Azzie team since Bohica won the Cape Flying Championship on 31 January 2022.

Adam recently declared that his long-term objective is permanently settling in Cape Town.

He said: “One must change and adapt, push the boundaries. The Cape will become South Africa’s premier racing centre and possibly a destination for international competitors. I have a young family; we’re keen on a healthier and safer lifestyle, and the Cape is just a great place to race. We have done so with significant results, raiding over the years.”

Also see - page 109.

Richard Fourie and Adam Azzie are all smiles after the good win | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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ROYALS SETS THE STANDARD With the blustery South Easter tapering off slightly, Winning Form jockey Raymond Danielson rode a well-judged race from the front to steer the Glen Kotzen-trained Royals to a smooth victory in the R180 000 non black-type Prestige Plate at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday.

Royals charges clear under Raymond Danielson Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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With the blustery South Easter tapering off slightly, Winning Form jockey Raymond Danielson rode a well-judged race from the front to steer the Glen Kotzen-trained Royals to a smooth victory in the R180 000 non black-type Prestige Plate at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday.

Drakenstein Stud and the shareholders in Gold Standard recently decided to give the sire a new opportunity at the historic Vogel Vlei Stud.

Earlier this month his daughter Golden Hostess won the Gr3 Hollywoodbets Diana Stakes at a similarly windy Hollywoodbets Durbanville.

The first of three features on a windswept sundrenched October afternoon at the Country Course, the Prestige Plate saw only 5 starters after scratchings, but made up for the lack of numbers by producing a rousing finish, and a mild Pick 6 knocker.

With recent Listed Irridescence Stakes winner Beach Bomb starting at 5-10, ‘Stingray’ Danielson capitalized on the lack of pace in the small field, and said that, while he had to push to get her to lead, when Royals changed legs at the 400m, he knew it would take a good one to get her.

Despite Beach Bomb’s efforts, Royals had a length to spare at the line and clocked 85,17 secs for the 1400m.

Summer Lily (25-2) was a further 0,40 lengths back in third.

Clearly Royals was a different proposition after the heavy going in the Irridescence Stakes, and she looks a filly worth staying with into the summer.

Now a winner of 2 races with 1 place from 8 starts, Royals took her stakes earnings to R249 575.

Purchased by the astute Glen Kotzen for R100 00 off the 2022 BSA Cape Yearling Sale, Royals was bred by Narrow Creek Stud and is a daughter of the recently relocated Trippi stallion Gold Standard out of the one-time winning Var mare, Royal Sensation.

Breeders John and Rene Everett showed their confidence by retaining a share in the goodlooking filly and race her with Solly Bhana and Glen Kotzen.

Winning Form rider Raymond Danielson shows his delight Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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TATTERSALLS AUTUMN v

HORSES IN TRAINING SALE 1750 Horses/Fillies in Training

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Group/Listed Winners including

7 Gr. 1 Winners Since 2020

ZAAKI winner of Mackinnon Stakes, Gr. 1, Underwood Stakes, Gr. 1, etc. purchased at the Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training Sale for 150,000gns

REGIONAL winner of Sprint Cup Stakes, Gr. 1, etc. purchased as a Horse in Training at Tattersalls for 3,500gns

SALUTE THE SOLDIER winner of Al Maktoum Challenge, Gr. 1, (twice) purchased at the Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training Sale for 380,000gns

Monday 23 - Friday 27 October

FIVE DAY SALE

South African Representative: Joanne Knowles Tel: +27 83 3996353 www.tattersalls.com 50 | 25 OCTOBER 2023

FEV ROVER winner of Beverly D Stakes, Gr. 1, etc. purchased as a Horse in Training at Tattersalls for 695,000gns

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NEAR FIT HONG KONG STAR CAN WIN COX PLATE 52 | 25 OCTOBER 2023

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Hong Kong star Romantic Warrior will attempt to win Australian racing’s most prized weight-for-age contest, the AU$5 million Gr1 W.S. Cox Plate (2040m) at Moonee Valley on Saturday from the race’s most successful barrier.

Romantic Warrior – set to make history on Saturday | Credit: HKJC

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The W.S. Cox Plate allows connections to choose their own barrier and trainer Danny Shum was delighted when his assistant Ben So selected barrier seven, the same gate successfully used by three winners this century – Fields Of Omagh (2006), El Segundo (2007) and So You Think (2009) – and a record 16 winners overall, including the legendary Phar Lap in 1931.

“I think it’s a reasonable draw, I’m happy with it,” Shum said before indicating he will instruct jockey James McDonald to ride an uncomplicated race on Romantic Warrior, who will face 11 rivals including his G1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) conqueror, Gold Trip.

“I will say to James to ride a simple race. If he can settle with some cover, he will hit the line strong. If we handle the sharp turn, I think we’ve got a good chance of winning the Cox Plate.

Danny Shum hopes to become the first Hong Kong-based trainer to win the W.S. Cox Plate.

“It’s a great honour to come here. Actually, I’ve been here 25 years ago when I was an assistant trainer, so it’s a really great honour to send a horse to run in the Cox Plate – one of the most major races in Australia.

“If I can win and create history, that has big meaning for me and The Hong Kong Jockey Club. There is pressure but it’s motivation for me. I like to take the pressure. My nickname is Iron Man in Hong Kong, so pressure for me is not a problem.”

Shum expects Romantic Warrior to improve significantly on his last-start fourth to Gr1

Melbourne Cup (3200m) winner Gold Trip at Flemington on 7 October.

“He hadn’t raced in something like four and a half months, since May 28. He was racing for the first time left-handed, there was long travel and there were a lot of difficulties leading into the race,” Shum said. “He had not a great run in the Turnbull Stakes, but it was an acceptable run.

“I think he was 70-80 percent fit (before the Turnbull). He can’t be 100 percent (now). I think 90-95 percent, something like this. He had two gallops here on the turf and every time James gave me a very positive report. He handled Moonee Valley well.

“My team has done a very good job. He needed to have a run in the Turnbull Stakes to get used to the left-handed track and he will improve from the Turnbull Stakes. He didn’t win, but we didn’t panic because the main target is the Cox Plate.

“I think he should be the favourite, according to form.”

Zac Purton’s mount Fangirl drew barrier nine in Saturday’s showpiece for trainer Chris Waller, while Aidan O’Brien-trained three-year-old Victoria Road will start from barrier six under Blake Shinn.

Romantic Warrior will become the fourth Hong Kong galloper to contest the Gr1 W.S. Cox Plate following David Hill’s River Verdon (11th in 1994), David Hayes-trained Elegant Fashion (ninth in 2004) and John Moore’s Super Kid (seventh in 2005).

“Horse racing, like any sport, is constantly evolving.

But you have to evolve with it, or you’ll get left behind.” - Frankie Dettori

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STALLIONS 2023

CANFORD CLIFFS

PAT H F O R K

(LIVE FOAL)

(LIVE FOAL)

R20,000

R5,000

MALMOOS

P OTA L A PA L A C E

(LIVE FOAL)

(LIVE FOAL)

N E W P R E D ATO R

RAFEEF

(LIVE FOAL)

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

R25,000

R12,500

R5,000

R70,000

REAL GONE KID FEE ON APPLICATION

TRADITION OF CHAMPIONS

Craig Carey | E: craig@ridgemont.co.za | M: +27 (0) 82 654 5169 | www.ridgemont.co.za

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LITCHFIELD STUD SOLD TO LEADING BREEDER 25 OCTOBER 2023 | 57

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A chapter in Cape breeding history closed this week as another opened, with the light of a fresh new dawn appearing on the horizon.

the opportunity arose to purchase the farm and continue its proud legacy, we did not hesitate to enter into discussions with them,” Dr Jacobs told the Sporting Post on Sunday.

The breaking news that Maine Chance supremo and champion breeder Dr Andreas Jacobs has purchased the historic and tradition-laden Litchfield Stud from the Winshaw family will be music to the ears of the South African racing and breeding industry, and a welcome broader vote of confidence in the African continent.

When asked what the plans were for Litchfield Stud, the internationally acclaimed breeder said that a variety of options were being considered.

It is no secret that the Jacobs family have a deep affinity and love for the serenity and rustic beauty of the Robertson valley, also known as the ‘Valley of wine, roses and horses’.

“My wife Natalie and I have known the Winshaws and have been visiting their beautiful farm for over fifteen years. We were privileged to stand the Litchfield-bred Victory Moon at Maine Chance, and in later years also acquired the majority of their broodmare band. When

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“It is our intention to continue with Litchfield as a horse nursery, while incorporating a hospitality aspect to it. We have developed

“Handing over the reins to our friends Andreas and Natalie makes parting so much sweeter”

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a unique facility for seminars at our breeding operation in Germany, combining educational and explorative courses in an equine environment. We envisage replicating something similar at Litchfield.

This will naturally encompass investment and opportunities to uplift the livelihood of the local community,” added Dr Jacobs.

Anybody who has enjoyed a visit to Litchfield Stud, will attest to the captivating beauty and ambiance of the 23 ha farm, situated on Robertson’s well known ‘Golden Mile’.

Geoff and Katherine Winshaw have lived on the farm for 32 years after purchasing it from the Late, successful owner, Ken McKenzie in 1998.

“Handing over the reins to our friends Andreas and Natalie makes parting so much sweeter,” they added.

From a small band of select mares a number of notable big race winners have been produced

on this stud, most notably, the pioneering Dubai Horse Of The Year Victory Moon, who put Litchfield on the international stage winning the Gr2 UAE Derby, Gr2 Maktoum Challenge (Round 3), Gr3 Maktoum Challenge (Round 2) and Gr3 UAE 2000 Guineas in Dubai. He also ran third in the Gr1 Dubai World Cup. He made his mark standing at Maine Chance and despite passing at a young age, was the sire of multiple Gr1 winning champion Princess Victoria, Gr1 Golden Horseshoe winner War Horse, East Cape champion Blaze Of Fire, and the globetrotting Nocturnal Affair, among others.

Geoff and Katherine wound down their thoroughbred breeding operation some years ago, and the first seeds of the present transaction could well have been sown when Andreas Jacobs bought their broodmare band at the time.

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The Jacobs family needs no introduction.

Steeped in international thoroughbred racehorse breeding, they are the proud holders of the reigning South African Horse of the Year trophy via superstar Princess Calla, and have added another winner to the Maine Chance Farms stable with the acquisition of the Litchfield Stud property, that, as observed, has itself been the launching pad of generations of champions.

Walther J. Jacobs, father of Klaus, grandfather of Andreas, founded Gestüt Fährhof near Bremen, Germany in 1960 and developed it into an internationally-recognised and respected stud farm.

Decades of champions first saw the light of day at the Jacobs operation and it was on Walther Jacobs’s passing that Andreas took over the mantle of Chairmanship of the family owned Fährhof, whilst his father Klaus acquired 60 | 25 OCTOBER 2023

Newsells Park Stud in England and set up one of the world’s most progressive commercial breeding operations just outside Newmarket.

Klaus built Newsells Park Stud into a successful breeding and racing operation.

On Klaus Jacobs passing in September 2008, Andreas Jacobs became Chairman of Newsells Park Stud and after a successful 13 years it was sold in the summer of 2021 for an undisclosed sum.

Andreas and his wife Natalie visited Maine Chance Farms in early 2002, and fell in love with the beauty and serenity of the Robertson district and didn’t hesitate at the opportunity to acquire Maine Chance, described by them at the time as ‘one of the most beautiful stud farms in the world’, in the fertile, lime rich Robertson valley.

From the early days of subsequent multiple SA champion sire Silvano, who was a revelation

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becoming SA Champion Sire 6 times, the dynasty has continued with his Champion son Vercingetorix having taken over the mantle in recent years.

Maine Chance Farms is also the home of Champion 2yo Sire Querari, Champion First Season Sire Erupt and up and coming young sire Quasillo, who has produced a few small crops due to infertility problems.

Continuous importation of fillies and broodmares from Europe has supplemented

Maine Chance’s high-quality broodmare band.

Dr Jacobs is always at pains to point out that Maine Chance’s legendary history in the production of multiple champions and five consecutive breeder’s championship titles is a testament to the late founders, Godfrey Gird and Graham Beck.

The proud tradition of excellence has continued into the 21st century and now the addition of the Litchfield Stud name to the Jacobs stable heralds an exciting new chapter!

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HOW’S THIS FOR A PURPLE PATCH!

Mexican Pete (Muzi Yeni) keeps his unbeaten record intact with a courageous victory as he draws past Last One Standing (Deryl Daniels, green cap) | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

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New owner Sid Moodley’s purple patch and associated rejuvenation of the vastly experienced Frank Robinson’s Summerveld yard continued at the weather-delayed Hollywoodbets Greyville meeting on Monday.

The combination enjoyed a double, which included the smart Mexican Pete maintaining his perfect record with a workmanlike victory in the R90 000 Foresight Model Man Mile.

With bigger fish to fry at Turffontein on Saturday, when their unbeaten Sovereign State faces the likes of Main Defender and Sandringham Summit in the Betway Gr3 Graham Beck Stakes, the Monday double would have been a terrific confidence-booster.

Starting a 6-10 favourite in the non black-type feature, Mexican Pete built on his two polytrack victories and showed his class on the turf, when upping his game late and then drawing past the 16-1 shot Last One Standing to 0,90 lengths in a time of 99,19 secs.

The win saw Stone Stamcor-sponsored Muzi Yeni draw level with Richard Fourie at the top of

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the national log, and the Gauteng jockey drew ahead after winning the last on Master Josh.

Concerned that his charge may find the mile on the short side – the ground may have played into Mexican Pete’s hands – trainer Frank Robinson indicated a possible tilt at the Dingaans with a horse he considers Derby material.

An astute R80 000 buy from the 2022 BSA November 2yo Sale, the Hemel ‘n Aarde Studbred Mexican Pete is a son of Master Of My Fate (Jet Master) out of the Gitano Hernando mare La Gitanila, who won twice from 1200m to 1600m.

The dam is a half-sister to Gr 3 Cape Fillies Nursery winner Hot Affair and to the useful Kannemeyer five-time-winning Master Of My Fate gelding Mr Master Starter.

A winner of 3 from 3, Mexican Pete took his stakes earnings to R181 250.

Earlier in the afternoon, maiden winner Master Of The Turf (another Hemel ‘n Aarde-bred son of Master Of My Fate) gave the MoodleyRobinson combination the first leg of a double.

Serino Moodley rode that winner.

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Big Rock wins the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (sponsored by QIPCO) | Credit: Megan Rose Photography

BIG ROCK CRUSHES OPPONENTS French raider Big Rock (5/1) produced a devastating front-running performance to slam his rivals by six lengths in the Gr1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (sponsored by QIPCO) at Ascot on Saturday.

French raider Big Rock (5/1) produced a devastating front-running performance to slam his rivals by six lengths in the Gr1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (sponsored by QIPCO) at Ascot on Saturday.

Always travelling strongly under Aurelien Lemaitre, Big Rock just kept on rolling as the opposition toiled in behind and ultimately had no trouble ending a run of three successive G1 runner-up placings this season.

Facteur Cheval (14/1) kept on from off the pace to make it a one-two for French-trained runners, a neck in front of Tahiyra (7/2) who could never get to grips with the runaway winner.

The 7/4 favourite Paddington was well below par, offering Ryan Moore nothing when push came to shove.

This was a poignant success for trainer Christopher Head, whose father Freddy won 25 OCTOBER 2023 | 67

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the race twice, most recently with Solow in 2015.

Head said: “Big Rock was tremendous. Today was pretty much the best mile race of the season and seeing him win this way is crazy.

What a horse, what a season. He’s really doing very well on that type of ground, but that was very, very impressive.

“I am really happy for the owner [Leopoldo Fernandez Pujals of Yeguada Centurion SL] because he has done tremendous work with the breeding and this horse is the pinnacle of the breeding system.

“You are always a bit scared that the rest of the runners will come on to you but he was always going faster and faster. We had faith because we have known him all throughout the season and he has always been like this.

“It is very nice to see him winning this race, because it is one of the best mile races in Europe. We need to discuss with the owner about whether he will stay in training and Leo will decide what we do.”

Lemaitre, who was riding his first winner in Britain, said: “That was very easy. Big Rock loved the ground today. He is a professional horse – he loved the soft ground, had very good pace and a great turn of foot. It is fantastic to win a Group One at Ascot.

I am very happy.”

didn’t really handle the ground, but she tries so hard. Somebody had to go after the horse in front and she said, ‘I’m going after him!’.”

On future plans, he said: “We will see how she comes out of the race and will make a decision.”

Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (sponsored by QIPCO) (Group 1) 1 Big Rock (Yeguada Centurion SL) Christopher Head FR 3-9-03 Aurelien Lemaitre 5/1 2 Facteur Cheval (Team Valor International LLC & Gary Barber) Jerome Reynier 4-9-06 Mickael Barzalona 14/1 3 Tahiyra (HH Aga Khan) Dermot Weld IRE 3-9-00 Chris Hayes 7/2 11 ran 7/4F Paddington (9th) Christoper Head – 1st winner on QIPCO British Champions Day Aurelien Lemaitre – 1st winner on QIPCO British Champions Day

Mickael Barzalona said of Facteur Cheval: “He raced very well, he travelled easy and he’s been very tough to get second place.”

Tahiyra’s rider Chris Hayes said: “It was an unusual race. Big Rock had us all under pressure; he set a quick tempo on very testing ground. I’m very proud of my filly on ground she hated. She wouldn’t accept defeat, and she kept trying to the line. Hopefully she’s there next year; she is a remarkable filly.”

Dermot Weld added: “Tahiyra has run a brilliant race. We are delighted with her, it’s just the conditions on the mile are very testing. She 68 | 25 OCTOBER 2023

Richard Fourie receives his 50 winner incentive cheque from Winning Form’s James Rich at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Wednesday | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

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Trainer Jacques Strydom (third from right) gives the thumbs up with the thrilled Gallic Tribe connections | Credit: Pauline Herman

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A heartening story of a plan come together, a relieved jockey who watched a replay 1000 times, and happy owners meeting for the first time, characterized a thrilling climax at a wet Fairview on Friday to the 2023 Nelson Mandela Bay Poly Challenge won by the Jacques Strydom trained Gallic Tribe.

The all-weather series was run over 1200m, 1400m and a mile, and it was a case of the consistent and game Gallic Tribe running over his prime trip for the first time.

I won on him previously. But I learnt from my mistakes and then watched the replay a 1000 times. And I also watched Piere Strydom’s ride in the second leg – probably another 1000 times. Then I phoned and begged for the ride,” said the bemused Jason Gates, who, when quizzed about the pressure, responded that ‘pressure forms diamonds’.

Under an animated ride, Gallic Tribe (5-1) stuck gamely to his task to hold off Port Louis (7-2) by a length in a time of 94,53 secs.

Jason Gates rode a well-judged race to get the 6yo home, and recalled being jocked off after the first leg in favour of champion Piere Strydom.

The overall series winner, the Kelly Mitchleytrained Prince Of Fire (33-10), was 0,75 lengths back in third, to make it a 1-2-3 in the all-weather triple crown and bank the R50 000 bonus for leading owner Laurence Wernars and partners.

“Thanks to everybody who helped me get back on. Oom Jacques was a little upset, despite the fact that the 1200m is on the short side and

Formerly based with Brett Crawford, Gallic Tribe is now a winner of 5 races with 12 places from 26 starts for stakes of R442 090.

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A R300 000 National Yearling Sale graduate, he is a Klawervlei Stud-bred son of Vercingetorix (Silvano), out of the two-time winning Black Minnaloushe mare, Jamboree.

The first leg of the Nelson Mandela Bay Racing Poly Challenge was contested over 1200m and won by Prince Of Fire.

The second leg over 1400m was a shock result when Narcos won at any price, beating Prince Of Fire.

A consolation bonus of R50 000 was paid to Prince Of Fire as the highest points earner to run in all 3 legs, and the winner of at least 1.

KELLY’S A HERO!

Trainer Kelly Mitchley (right) receives the 2023 Nelson Mandela Bay Racing Poly Challenge series bonus of R50 000 for Prince Of Fire from 4Racing’s Karen Le Roux | Credit: Pauline Herman

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VETSCAPE GAME CHANGERS An animal hospital in the Western Cape is making ground-breaking progress in equine neck surgeries by customising implants and developing new techniques.

Gary Lemke went along to find out more.

We’re sitting in an office at the Vetscape Animal Hospital in Paarl. There are no

A place of healing | Credit: Supplied 82 | 25 OCTOBER 2023

fancy accessories or lounge chairs, just two Godolphin paintings on the wall. There are book-shelves which hold files, medical records and subjects which relate to, well, specialist veterinary topics. Three computers stand on one side of the room, all warm from the amount of work they are put through. On another side is what looks like a makeshift coffee and tea station, and a small fridge.

This office doubles as a kitchen.

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We gather around the table which is clear, except for a printed schedule and TV times of Rugby World Cup matches. It’s a reminder that even for the most dedicated and hard-working veterinary team, the pressure cooker has to have a lid.

This wasn’t always an office. In fact, it was the ICU room where the five-time South African champion sire Jet Master passed away in 2011 following an operation to help him regain his co-ordination after he had been affected by cervical vertebral instability.

“Unofficially, we call it the Jet Master lounge, in honour of the legend. He made it through the operation but not the ordeal,” says Dr Andrew Gray, a specialist equine surgeon.

Dr Andrew Gray with Kuda’s Jo Campher Credit: Supplied

His career has evolved after graduating from Onderstepoort in 2002, to an emergency night vet at CAMC, followed by a stint at Cape Vets based at Milnerton Racecourse. He spent time in Australia before relocating to Paarl, where he and his wife, Tacita are raising their four children.

“My sister is also a doctor, but a human one,” he laughs. “She works extremely hard, but fewer hours than me, and she earns a lot more money.” There’s a smile on his face as he talks, although the eyes light up when it comes to his work. What is that expression? It’s not a job if it’s a passion?

The stubble around the face suggests he hasn’t shaved this particular morning, but that’s understandable. Long days and nights at work, then going home to fulfill the role of doting father and husband, isn’t going to leave much time for even the basics.

This is the busiest time of the year for the hospital.

“It’s definitely ‘in-season’,” Dr Gray says.

Amasova gets a visit from Kuda’s Josi Marais Credit: Supplied

“It’s foaling season and there are many associated risks, with post-foaling mare issues and sick foals being the most common.”

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Amasova recovering after the procedure | Credit: Supplied

In fact, as we’ve done a tour of the facility, we’ve come across mares with their young, recovering from illness or surgery. Some of whom are household names to those involved in the racing industry, champions on the track who are now producing the champions of tomorrow. Obviously, given the confidentiality between clients and the hospital, we are not naming them, except to say that illness and recovery – and occasionally death – surrounds us.

“It’s no different to a human hospital,” Dr Gray says. “Just like people don’t go into hospital unless they are really ill, horses don’t get admitted into Vetscape unless they have serious issues. People can die in hospitals – and our equine patients carry that risk too.”

The “we” I refer to on the occasion of this visit are the Kuda Insurance team of bloodstock manager Jo Campher and Tammi Grieve, head 84 | 25 OCTOBER 2023

of marketing and branding. My role? To tell it like it is.

This particular connection between Kuda and Vetscape is centred around two horses, a 2021 yearling and a filly now named Amasova.

The yearling was in the process of being prepped for the KZN Yearling Sale when she fractured her neck, which is a more common occurrence than one thinks. Traumatic cervical vertebra (neck) fractures may be caused when a horse rears up and flips over, runs into a solid object like a pole or wall, or suffers blunt trauma from paddock mates, such as a kick or collision. Often there’s immediate fatality, or paralysis.

“Her vertebra collapsed in on her spinal cord.

This caused, severe incoordination and pain and it became difficult for her to get up and move around,” says Dr Gray.

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“After isolating the fracture and site of compression, we carefully stabilised the two affected vertebrae with a custom-made titanium cage, reinforced with a broad plate and screws at the level of C5, C6. When fusing two bones it takes about six months before a solid boney bridge forms. If you stress the implant in that time, the bones move and the screws become loose. The challenge is getting that boney bridge between the two vertebrae to fuse,” he says.

The other case involves Amasova, a confirmed Wobbler.

“She presented to us when she got a virus that affects the central nervous system,” says Dr Gray.

Spinal cord compression in Amasova | Credit: Supplied

“Wobbler cases are much more sensitive to neurological viruses. When Amasova remained severely ataxic (often struggling to get to her feet) after recovering from the virus, we investigated further. X-rays and a myelogram of her neck confirmed focal compression on the spinal cord due to intervertebral instability (referred to as a Wobbler). The decision was made to operate and a C4, C5 vertebral fusion was performed. For this particular surgery, a titanium cage, rods and pedicle screws were used.”

This was also a resounding success and Amasova recently tested in foal to former Horse of the Year and multiple Equus winner Legislate.

Cervical vertebral fracture repair | Credit: Supplied

An agreement between Kuda insurance and clients Cheveley Stud, and an arrangement with Vetscape to “meet in the middle” from a cost perspective, led to Dr Gray’s involvement.

“Amasova was very unstable, and had no chance of a racing career,” explains Janine Koster, Kuda’s division head of niche products.

“In the case of Amasova, there had to be willing parties to move forward with surgery.

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Cheveley Stud, Vetscape and SA Spine, who manufacture the spinal implants. All angles needed to be explored, and it helped that in making the decision it was with parties who have an intimate knowledge of the industry, in order to partner,” Koster said. “This was a case of our life saving surgery and critical care offering being utilised to help create a success story,” she added.

Again, we won’t reveal the extent of the cost of the operations and add-ons, suffice to say that both Kuda and Vetscape were working towards a common goal. That goal is to ensure end-result surgery and recovery for similarly affected horses with Wobblers as much more of a standard procedure.

“We are constantly trying to advance the scope of our work. At Vetscape, we’re always looking to push the boundaries in equine surgery and medicine. Cervical (neck) surgery is well established in other equine centres across the world and what we are doing here is novel.

We’re customising implants and developing new techniques. Gert Bekker, engineer and owner of SA Spine, is instrumental in the process. He knows implants. He custom manufactures everything in Pretoria. It has created a unique relationship between us as vets, Kuda as insurers and SA Spine, the suppliers. Every operation we now perform improves on the previous one.”

“Historically, there were different techniques with less favourable outcomes and higher “We are already mortality rates. Now making great it’s all changed, with We are constantly progress,” says Dr custom-made implants.

Gray. trying to advance the If you engineer something specifically scope of our work.

“The first to fit the bone, it’s operation took much better than a four hours and straight plate on curved the second was about half that. The more of bone. We are reaching the stage of acquiring these procedures we perform, the shorter the 3D images of horse’s cervical vertebrae, operating time will be until we get it down to which helps, because necks aren’t all the between 90-120 minutes. It’s an extremely same. This is a whole new frontier that we’re intricate operation, so the horses have to be encountering.” under general anesthetic and completely immobilised and secured.”

Frontiers, challenges and progress are what Vetscape is all about.

He explains what a Wobbler is in layman’s terms. “There are four grades to the condition.

“There was a time when any horse that Grade 1 is when it is only felt when ridden fractured a limb would be euthanized,” Dr Gray at work. The jockey may say that the horse says. feels unstable behind. It’s difficult to motivate surgery at this stage, although overseas they “Now we frequently repair limb fractures and do operate quite often at this stage. Grade 2 is can almost guarantee a reasonable success when the horse is uncoordinated while walking. rate, when it’s a fracture ‘realistic’ enough to Grade 3 is when it’s dangerous for a person operate on. That is what we are striving for with to walk next to it, and euthanasia is often cervical vertebral surgery, and post-operative discussed. Grade 4 is when a horse can’t get success rate. If we can do that, it’s going to be up, it is recumbent (laying down).” Amasova better for the horse and better for the owners”. was hovering between Grade 3 and Grade 4.

In short, Dr Gray, with help from other roleDr Gray explains what is ground-breaking players, is determined to make strides forward about the yearling and Amasova. in equine surgery. And, he’s doing it with untapped enthusiasm and a smile on his face.

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FAIRYTALE ENDING – NOW FRANKIE HEADS TO THE STATES Frankie Dettori said farewell to British racing in fairytale fashion as he lifted home King Of Steel in the feature Gr1 QIPCO Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.

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Frankie Dettori said farewell to British racing in fairytale fashion as he lifted home King Of Steel in the feature Gr1 QIPCO Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.

Sent off the 3/1 favourite, King Of Steel had work to do turning for home but Dettori galvanised his mount, who finished powerfully to run down Via Sistina (11/2) and score by three-quarters of a length. French challenger Horizon Dore (4/1) was two lengths further back in third.

It was a significant success for the Amo Racing’s King Of Steel, who finally secured his Gr1 win after three near-misses at the highest level this term, most notably in the Derby.

The victory completed a double on the afternoon for Dettori, who was given a

rapturous reception as he came back into the winner’s enclosure.

Dettori said: “My emotions are all over the place, I can’t believe it. The crowd got this horse over the line. I was doing my best on top but the feeling that I got was incredible; thanks to all of you, you made me win this race and it’s fantastic. I love you, a Hollywood script, I love you. I don’t know how to feel at the moment, I don’t know if it’s real or......it was incredible.

“I struggled from the beginning of the race. I couldn’t really get King Of Steel to travel, he was stumbling – and then he started to come good. Then I got behind Mickael [Barzalona on Horizon Dore], who I thought was the horse to beat. Then I thought, ‘Oisin [on Via Sistina] is going pretty good’, so I got on his tail. When they kicked, they left me a little bit, but King Of Steel just found a second wind, dug deep, the crowd got behind me and we got him over

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the line. What a feeling, I thought the first race the crowd was good but this was another level honestly, it was incredible. A fairytale ending for me, Ascot is my home.

“It is very hard to explain what I’m feeling now.

I had the same surreal moment when I won my first Group One with Mark Of Esteem, when everything went dark. I know it’s quite dark anyway, so that’s not an excuse, but there’s a feeling that, ‘this can’t be right’. It is very hard to explain my feeling. I thought I would cry, but I’m too happy to cry, to be honest with you. I didn’t expect it – it’s fantastic. What a day.

“The first race was mad; this was another level, to be honest with you. It was incredible – everyone was cheering for me. This was my last race, so they were all up for it. Amazing.

After the race, people were singing, ‘Oh, Frankie Dettori!’. That’s one thing I’ll miss and I can’t take to America with me – I’m fairly new over there. But it’s been memorable; from the beginning of the season, it’s been tremendous.

I wanted to finish at the top and I can’t be more at the top than that. I’m very proud of my career and this year, it’s been phenomenal. Can I go and have a beer now?

“I go to Santa Anita on Wednesday. I’ll regroup, go to the States, and like I said, I’m moving there for good.”

“King Of Steel is a very agile horse – I don’t think his size has stopped him; I think the ground is hard for all of them. Big engine, big set of lungs – he’s got to the line, hasn’t he?

Big heart, big effort.”

Kia Joorabchian of Amo Racing said: “I am sorry, I’m so emotional. Frankie the king of Ascot, King Of Steel, he deserved that. What a ride, what a ride. Why is he retiring? What a ride. What an emotional moment, my family is here.

“I am so happy for Frankie, he deserved this more than anything in the world. To finish like that, I mean, he called me and said ‘can I ride King Of Steel?’ and I said ‘what can I say to that? of course you can’.

It’s wonderful, what an incredible atmosphere.

This is all for Frankie and he deserves it. What a career he has had and what an incredible performance. This guy King Of Steel deserves it too, he’s come second in the Derby and we’ve put him in some really tough tests and he’s come through. I am so happy for the both of them. What an amazing training performance

by Roger Varian, and Alex Elliott who first bought the horse.”

Asked about whether, if King Of Steel stays in training, he’d like to ride him again, Dettori said: “At the moment I’m focusing on my American adventure. I’ve got to make myself well known there and be there every day. I have no plans to come back to England.”

Winning trainer Roger Varian said: “King Of Steel is a good horse, isn’t he? And a tough horse. He has run great all year. He’s done well to come from the back. Very tough. Good performance. Good ride, good effort by all the team. I haven’t really had a debrief [from Dettori] – I’ve had a few hugs, but we’d need to watch it again.

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GREEN ‘N GOLD A BOK FAN CAPTURED AT HOLLY WOODBETS DURBANVILLE BY CHASE LIEBENBERG

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The handsome Wootton Bassett in his paddock | Credit: Coolmore

WHAT A YEAR FOR WOOTTON BASSETT

When King Of Steel won Saturday’s Gr1 Qipco Champion Stakes, he crowned a great year for his sire Wootton Bassett.

When King Of Steel won Saturday’s Gr1 Qipco Champion Stakes, he crowned a great year for his sire Wootton Bassett.

One of the most exciting stallions in the world, Wootton Bassett has enjoyed tremendous success this season with both his two-year-olds and older runners.

Runner up in the Gr1 Betfred Derby earlier this year, King Of Steel is his sire’s eighth G1 winner overall, with Wootton Bassett also the sire of this year’s Gr1 Phoenix Stakes winner Bucanero Fuerte.

The Coolmore sire’s previous Gr1 winners include Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf winner Audaraya, Gr1 winning sprinter Wooded, French champion Zellie and Almanzor. The latter preceded King Of Steel in winning the Qipco Champion Stakes, with Almanzor landing the 2016 renewal, and also capturing the Gr1 Prix du Jockey Club and Gr1 QIPCO Irish Champion Stakes.

Now a popular shuttle stallion, Almanzor has made his mark in the Southern Hemisphere as the sire of Gr1 Penfolds Victoria Derby winner Manzoice.

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Wootton Bassett shares his sire Iffraaj with outstanding miler Ribchester, whose son Facteur Cheval ran second in Saturday’s Gr1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (Sponsored by Qipco).

Himself unbeaten in five starts at two, where he was victorious in the Gr1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, Wootton Bassett, who failed to win after his two-year-old campaign, has proven himself a sire of the highest class who has enjoyed success with mares by a host of different stallions.

The stallion, who began his stud career at a fee of 4,000 euros, and who had a fee of 150,000 euros in 2023, has already been responsible for 38 stakes winners, and was crowned France’s Leading Sire of 2YOs in 2021.

He has sired Gr1 winners out of mares by a range of stallions namely Maria’s Mon, Green Tune, Verglas, Elusive City, Azamour and Galileo, with the Gr1 winning siblings

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Bucanero Fuerte and Wooded both sons of the Elusive City mare Frida La Blonde.

Bucanero Fuerte, winner of both the Gr1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes and Gr2 GAIN Railway Stakes in 2023, is one of four group winning two-year-olds for his sire this year, with this tally including Gr2 Coventry Stakes winner River Tiber and the French group winners Grey Man and Zabiari.

Yet another two-year-old son of the stallion, Islandsinthestream ran second in Sunday’s Gr1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud, having finished second previously in the Gr1 Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes, while fellow Wootton Bassett son Unquestionable was beaten just a short-head when second in the Railway Stakes.

One can but speculate as to how far Wootton Bassett will go as he covers a higher quality of mare than he did previously. But his success story looks a long way from ending.

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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.

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Exciting Diego Velazquez leads the pack at Leopardstown | Credit: Racing TV

£2,5M FRANKEL CAN BRING BRIT GR1 CURTAIN DOWN Saturday sees the running of the final Group 1 of the British flat season the Kameko Futurity Trophy.

Run at Doncaster over the straight mile it is an informative contest for the following season’s Classic’s with all of Magna Grecia, Kameko and Auguste Rodin going on to glory in their respective three-year-old career’s.

With Ryan Moore banned for five days after his ride in the Oh So Sharp at Newmarket, James Doyle has been booked for the plum ride on the Ballydoyle trained favourite Diego Velazquez.

A £2.5m purchase, the son of Frankel is unbeaten in two starts and is very highly regarded by his stable. He is one of five declared by the Irish Champion trainer out of the 11 possibles. They also have Battle Cry,

Chief Little Rock, Capulet, and Henry Adams engaged.

James Doyle has tasted Group 1 success with Ballydoyle this season aboard Warm Heart in the Yorkshire Oaks and Prix Vermeille. With Frankie gone to Hollywood, Doyle got the nod.

“Diego Velazquez looks the main one for the Futurity Trophy on Saturday,” said O’Brien. “We are very happy with him since his last run and James Doyle has been booked for him. We will probably run one other horse in the race, and we are looking forward to it.”

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Wisdom (£17,500) as expected after he pleased in a weekend workout at Newmarket.

Appleby said: “He has come out of that piece of work in good shape, so we were keen to supplement this morning. The ground is looking like it will be soft at Doncaster, and I feel like he is going to be a very strong contender.”

Roger Teal is looking forward to taking on the big guns with Dancing Gemini, who followed up a Newbury maiden win by romping away with the Listed Flying Scotsman Stakes on Town Moor.

“Everything seems spot on with him and it’s all good at this stage,” said the Lambourn trainer.

“He was very impressive at Doncaster last time and we’re looking forward to giving it a go. I think the mile will suit him, as he certainly wasn’t stopping there over seven furlongs.”

John and Thady Gosden could be represented by debut winner God’s Window, a course and distance winner on soft ground who got the better of Ben Brookhouse’s Redhot Whisper, who could reoppose. God’s Window is owned

by Cayton Park Stud, and Drakenstein Stud in the Western Cape.

Winning Form rider Raymond Danielson shows his delight | Credit: Racing TV

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Sight Success beats Lucky Sweynesse in a rousing finish | Credit: HKJC

LONGINES SPRINT ON RADAR FOR SIZE SPEEDSTER Overshadowed by Hong Kong’s sprinting elite for the past two seasons, Sight Success was rewarded for admirable consistency with victory in the HK$5.35 million Gr2 Premier Bowl Handicap at Sha Tin on Sunday afternoon as Brenton Avdulla and John Size combined in spectacular fashion.

A Group 1 runner-up, Sight Success slotted his maiden Group 2 triumph in a time of 1m 08.27s under an inspired ride by Avdulla, who had snared only one win from 52 rides this season before taking the reins on Sight Success and delivering the Magnus seven-year-old’s ninth win of his career.

Sight Success (121lb) prevailed under a heady display from Avdulla, who first forced 1.4 favourite Lucky Sweynesse (135lb) to cover

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ground early under Zac Purton before driving late to down the favourite by a short head.

Duke Wai (117lb) was third, while Victor The Winner (118lb) faded to fifth after setting the pace. Adios filled fourth position.

“I was able to hold my spot and just force Zac to go on a bit further than he probably wanted to. I just let Zac and Karis do what they wanted to do and I thought the only way I could beat them was late. Full credit to John and his team,” Avdulla said.

“I had a number of frustrating seconds (this season) and lost a little bit of support through the way, but John has always been one who’s thrown me some good rides. You’ve got to make the most of these opportunities and I’m very thankful.”

Second to Wellington in the 2022 G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (1200m), Sight Success will be given another tilt at the HK$26

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million feature on 10 December after contesting the Gr2 BOCHK Private Banking Jockey Club Sprint (1200m) at Sha Tin on 19 November.

“These small fields are always a bit tricky but I think he (Avdulla) chose the right option and just followed the two leaders and he got a lovely run into the race,” Size said after Sight Success took his prize money earnings beyond HK$25 million.

Size has now won the Premier Bowl four times after previous triumphs with Rich Unicorn (2011), Mr Stunning (2017), Hot King Prawn (2018) and now Sight Success.

Invincible Sage earned a PP Bonus of HK$1.5 million with an eye-catching victory for David Hall in the Class 3 Hong Kong China’s Asian Games Medallists Cup Handicap (1000m) under Hugh Bowman.

“He’s a very consistent horse, very honest, always puts in a good run and he seems to be able to sustain a long preparation. Last season, he ran very well in the international race (LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint) and I’m hoping he’ll do the same again.

“I think there’s more to come with him, he’s a very uncomplicated horse. He has a perfect temperament and racing style for Hong Kong – he’s got a bit to offer. It’s lovely to see him do that, but it comes as no surprise,” Bowman said.

“He (Avdulla) is a good jockey and when you come to Hong Kong it’s a very tough venue to perform in but now he’s won a nice race like that, and ridden so well in other races, I think he’ll be underway now.”

Brenton Avdulla celebrates the win.

Hall sealed a double with Keagan De Melo when Atullibigeal landed the Class 2 Equestrian Handicap (1400m). De Melo earlier posted his first Sha Tin win when Rising From Ashes gave Francis Lui a double with success in the Class 2 Swimming Handicap (1800m).

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SOUTHEASTER WINNER BLOWS TO A 111 Kiss Me Captain surges ahead under Richard Fourie at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

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The Azzie-trained Kiss Me Captain has had her merit rating raised from 109 to 111 by the NHA handicappers after winning the Listed Southeaster Sprint (handicap) run over 1000m at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday.

The Handicappers believed that 2nd placed COUNTDOWN made for the most suitable line horse, leaving him unchanged on a mark of 107.

When deciding on a line horse, the Handicappers considered that KWINTA’S

LIGHT was unable to secure a clear run at the 300m mark and MR COBBS had to switch in for a clear run at the 150m mark, and deemed them to be unsuitable line horses.

Two horses were given drops. Last year’s winner, RESONATE was dropped from 110 to 108, and TEMPTING FATE was dropped from 107 to 105.

Also see race report - page 46.

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results up to: 2023-10-25

TRAINERS Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Other Places

Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

Mr S J Snaith

217

22

10.1

24

27

42

93

42.9

1,442,188

2,488,406

Mrs C L Bass-Robinson

151

22

14.6

16

17

37

70

46.4

1,645,625

2,344,488

Mr A C Greeff

197

25

12.7

22

12

39

73

37.1

1,455,313

2,115,975

Mr A P Peter

97

23

23.7

20

11

20

51

52.6

1,560,938

2,092,938

Mr G D Smith

256

23

9.0

21

31

52

104

40.6

1,170,863

1,918,025

Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

Mr M A Yeni

404

66

16.3

64

52

97

213

52.7

4,072,813

6,136,350

Mr R D Fourie

296

65

22.0

48

32

65

145

49.0

4,033,438

5,597,975

Mr G J Lerena

228

39

17.1

38

40

42

120

52.6

2,383,000

3,771,950

Mr S Khumalo

200

30

15.0

25

34

35

94

47.0

1,872,188

2,728,025

Mr C Zackey

320

29

9.1

38

28

82

148

46.3

1,680,000

2,963,544

JOCKEYS Other Places

BREEDERS Name

Runrs Runs

AEPR

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

Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein

213

470

26,944

57

65

26.8

201

1

1

5,739,113

Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)

118

226

30,523

33

39

28.0

101

3

3

3,601,750

Klawervlei Stud

169

369

20,307

34

39

20.1

149

0

0

3,431,925

Varsfontein Stud

97

230

23,675

20

22

20.6

100

0

0

2,296,450

Ridgemont Highlands

96

186

21,498

20

22

20.8

74

0

0

2,063,781

Name

Runrs Runs

AEPR

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

Master Of My Fate

136

312

25,934

33

37

24.3

142

0

0

3,527,025

Querari (GER)

128

286

24,305

30

32

23.4

126

1

1

3,110,988

Gimmethegreenlight (AUS)

129

269

22,403

22

25

17.1

133

0

0

2,889,950

Vercingetorix

119

241

22,625

28

31

23.5

91

0

0

2,692,388

Flower Alley (USA)

73

183

35,821

26

28

35.6

81

2

2

2,614,963

SIRES

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