Ka Ying Rising Out to Make It 21 on the Opening...
September 5 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore
Look to Lerena for Turffontein punting profits
Group One Double Headlines Star-Studded Arc Trials Day
ParisLongchamp takes centre stage on Sunday with two Group One contests and several leading Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe contenders appearing on one of the most important afternoons of the French racing season.
The Prix du Moulin de Longchamp (G1, 1600m) brings together an accomplished group of European milers, while the Prix Vermeille (G1, 2400m) offers a valuable opportunity for the leading fillies and mares to force their way into the Arc picture.
The nine-race programme also features the Prix Niel (G2, 2400m) and Prix Foy (G2, 2400m), with the three traditional middle-distance trials staged over the same course and distance as next month’s €5 million Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
France Galop has moved the trials four weeks before the Arc, giving horses additional recovery time before returning to ParisLongchamp on October 4. Winners of the three trials also receive a wildcard into the Arc, including the waiver of the €120,000 supplementary fee if they are not already entered.
Aidan O’Brien’s Gstaad will attempt to establish himself as Europe’s leading active miler when he contests the €800,000 Prix du Moulin de Longchamp.
The three-year-old has spent much of the season in the shadow of the recently retired Bow Echo, finishing runner-up to George Boughey’s star in the 2000 Guineas and Sussex Stakes.
However, the son of Starspangledbanner secured his own Classic success with an impressive victory in the Irish 2000 Guineas at the Curragh.
He was forced to miss the Prix Jacques le Marois after suffering a cut, but that setback appears to have been minor and he is now ready to return against older horses at ParisLongchamp.
Victory would give O’Brien a third success in the race following Rock Of Gibraltar in 2002 and Circus Maximus in 2019.
Godolphin provides two major dangers through Opera Ballo and Notable Speech.
The Charlie Appleby-trained Opera Ballo won the Jebel Hatta (G1) at Meydan earlier in the season before finishing third behind Bow Echo and Gstaad at Goodwood.
He was only narrowly in front of Ten Bob Tony on that occasion, with the shock Queen Anne Stakes winner also remaining in contention for Sunday’s feature.
Notable Speech, meanwhile, returned to winning form when producing a powerful late finish in the City of York Stakes (G1) last month.
The five-time Group One winner has built an outstanding international record, with major victories in Britain, Canada and the United States. His previous visit to ParisLongchamp ended in disappointment when he failed to handle testing ground in the 2024 Moulin, making conditions an important consideration once again.
Zeus Olympios adds further strength to the international challenge after going close in the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville.
The Karl Burke-trained four-year-old finished only a neck behind French Guineas winner Rayif, producing one of the best performances of his career.
His earlier victory in the Summer Mile (G2) at Ascot showed his effectiveness around a right-handed bend, while his prominent racing style could prove valuable on the ParisLongchamp circuit.
France’s leading hope could be the progressive Erdenali, who steps into Group One company for the first time.
Trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, the Aga Khan-owned three-year-old won his first three starts, including the Prix de Saint-Patrick, before finishing third in the Prix Messidor (G3) at Deauville.
Connections felt he was unlucky not to win on that occasion and have decided to test him at the highest level rather than seek an easier Group race.
“He was really unlucky and should have won,” Aga Khan Studs racing manager Nemone Routh said.
“We will really find out where he stands at this level in such a high-quality field and it will help us decide what comes next.”
Expanded, Native Warrior, Dreamliner and Nighttime complete the ten horses remaining at the latest forfeit stage.
The Prix Vermeille appears far more open, with Sparan Nua and Sunly sharing the early market lead.
Trained in Ireland by Jim Bolger, Sparan Nua produced the best performance of her career when pushing Kalpana to a short head in the Yorkshire Oaks (G1).
Although she has been beaten in each of her past three starts, the three-year-old has continued to progress and that York performance places her among the leading contenders.
She does not currently hold an Arc entry, but victory on Sunday would provide connections with the option of adding her to the field without paying the €120,000 supplementary fee.
Sunly represents the powerful Graffard stable and already holds an entry for the Arc.
The daughter of Sottsass finished third against the older horses in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud (G1) and now returns to her own sex in search of a first victory at the highest level.
Graffard could also be represented by Rabbit’s Foot, while Pink Panthera brings Classic form after finishing runner-up in the Prix de Diane.
German Oaks runner-up Lapotheose is another with Arc ambitions and is one of only two likely runners, along with Sunly, already entered for next month’s feature.
British interest is strengthened by Survie, who is set to return to France for trainer George Boughey.
The Group One winner had been expected to head directly to the Breeders’ Cup Turf, but her recent work has encouraged connections to give her another opportunity in Europe.
She is no stranger to the race, having finished fourth behind Aventure in last year’s Vermeille when trained in France.
Aventure subsequently defeated Diamond Necklace in last month’s Prix Jean Romanet, form which is particularly relevant to the wider Arc picture.
O’Brien had considered using the Vermeille as the next step for Diamond Necklace, but instead elected to give his French Guineas, French Oaks and Nassau Stakes winner more time following her surprise Deauville defeat.
“We thought if we went to the Prix Vermeille over a mile and a half and she had a hard race, and we decided to go to the Arc, it could come a little bit too quick for her,” O’Brien said.
“She’s going to have a good, long run into either race and I think she should be fitter and tighter than she was going to Deauville.”
Diamond Necklace will instead be prepared for Arc weekend, when she could contest either the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe or the Prix de l’Opera.
Tattycoram, Botagoz, Habibi, Sugar Island, Beautify, Composing and Euboa are among the other fillies and mares remaining in the Vermeille.
While the two Group One races provide the headline attractions, considerable attention will also surround Benvenuto Cellini in the Prix Niel.
Dramatically declared a non-runner after finishing down the field as favourite in the Derby, the Frankel colt quickly put that episode behind him by winning the Irish Derby three weeks later.
He then performed with credit against older horses in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, finishing third behind Kalpana and Calandagan.
Only two lengths separated him from the winner and he now returns to his own age group following a midsummer break.
“Benvenuto goes to France for the Prix Niel and he could then go for the Arc if the ground was nice,” O’Brien said.
“If not, he’d obviously miss there and go on to the Breeders’ Cup, with Hong Kong and stuff like that in mind.”
The home defence includes Varandir, Alam and Pearled Majesty, while defending Arc champion Daryz makes his eagerly awaited return in the Prix Foy.
With two Group One races and several significant Arc trials, Sunday’s programme should provide important clues ahead of Europe’s premier middle-distance contest four weeks later.
Kind Of Blue Chases Third-Time-Lucky Sprint Cup Glory
Kind Of Blue will attempt to turn two years of Haydock frustration into Group 1 glory when he lines up in a fascinating renewal of the Betfair Sprint Cup Stakes (G1, 1200m) on Saturday.
The James Fanshawe-trained five-year-old has finished runner-up in the Merseyside feature in each of the past two seasons, losing by a head to Montassib in 2024 before finding Big Mojo a length-and-a-quarter too strong 12 months ago.
He now returns for a third attempt at the £400,000 contest, which is the final all-aged six-furlong Group 1 of the British season and one of the defining races in the sprint division.
Owned by Wathnan Racing, Kind Of Blue has not won since landing the British Champions Sprint Stakes (G1) at Ascot in October 2024, but his proven record at Haydock and ability to handle different conditions make him a leading contender once again.
The son of Blue Point began his current campaign with a second behind Elmonjed in the Minster Stakes (G2) at York before finishing down the field behind Almeraq in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes (G1) at Royal Ascot.
The race will carry additional significance for Kind Of Blue, who is expected to retire to stud at the end of the season.
Standing between Kind Of Blue and an overdue Haydock victory is a strong group headed by Royal Ascot hero Almeraq.
The William Haggas-trained four-year-old emerged as a leading member of the sprint division when defeating Japan’s Satono Reve by a nose in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, with Australia’s Joliestar close behind in a blanket finish.
That performance earned Almeraq an official rating of 119, the highest among the leading contenders, and he is expected to be suited should the forecast rain produce testing conditions.
Haggas won the race with Montassib in 2024 and confirmed Almeraq is an intended runner, while stablemate Division is more dependent on the ground.
Division is a previous course-and-distance winner and arrives after finishing second to Samangan in the Prix Maurice de Gheest (G1) at Deauville. However, his preference for a quick surface means Sunday’s Garrowby Stakes at York could become the more suitable option.
Defending champion Big Mojo will attempt to become only the second horse to win the Sprint Cup twice.
The race was inaugurated in 1966, but only its first winner, Be Friendly, has managed to return and successfully defend the title.
Big Mojo produced a career-best performance when defeating Kind Of Blue last year and comes into his title defence after returning to winning form in the Phoenix Sprint Stakes (G3) at the Curragh.
Michael Appleby’s four-year-old travelled strongly before taking control during the final furlong and defeating Big Gossey by one-and-a-quarter lengths on good-to-firm ground.
He is proven over the course and distance and will again be partnered by William Buick, although softer conditions could present a different challenge from the one he faced last season.
Irish interest is supplied by Comanche Brave, whose victory in the July Cup (G1) at Newmarket established him among Europe’s leading sprinters.
The Donnacha O’Brien-trained colt has shown his best form on quicker ground, however, and connections could switch their attention to the Flying Five Stakes (G1) at the Curragh if conditions deteriorate significantly.
The three-year-old challenge is headed by Coppull, who drops back to six furlongs after winning the Hungerford Stakes (G2) over 1400m at Newbury.
Trained by sprint specialist Clive Cox, Coppull had earlier finished fourth behind Comanche Brave in the July Cup and receives 2lb from the older male runners at Haydock.
Marvelman is another contender with the form to become involved following his third behind Notable Speech and Lake Forest in the City of York Stakes (G1). The Andrew Balding-trained four-year-old has yet to win at Group level but brings a rating of 117 and should not be inconvenienced by rain.
Wathnan could also be represented by Paborus, who returns to six furlongs after finishing eighth in the City of York Stakes.
The lightly raced five-year-old had previously made an impressive return from a year on the sidelines when winning the Chipchase Stakes (G3) at Newcastle, and connections believe the shorter distance and some ease in the ground could bring out further improvement.
Saturday’s race therefore offers several compelling storylines, from Big Mojo’s pursuit of history to Almeraq’s attempt to confirm his place at the head of the division.
For Kind Of Blue, however, it represents one final opportunity to settle unfinished business at Haydock and turn two narrow defeats into a long-awaited Sprint Cup victory.
The Betfair Sprint Cup Stakes is scheduled for 3.40pm local time on Saturday.
By Scott BaileyInternational Stars Descend On Seoul For Korea Cup And Sprint
Beauty Waves well equipped for Sunday’s Korea Sprint, believes Tony Cruz
Beauty Waves trials on 25 August at Sha Tin under Jerry Chau.
Scots Wae Hae out to make amends
Familiar Vaal victors could keep cash flowing
Pop a cork for Muzi and Nel
Three quarters of the card at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Wednesday are Maiden Plates, but there are some extremely well-bred youngsters with appealing form and reputations. A crystal ball may be needed to know who could end up above average, but there could be some notebook entries by the end of the meeting.
Race 1 over 1000m looks fairly shallow. Nadia Nerina brings a good run on debut into play, having finished third, six lengths behind Magma Flow in April. She was scratched heading to the start on 12 August with an injury reported, but her quick return is a good sign that trainer Justin Snaith is happy with her. Gavin Lerena makes the trip to Cape Town for a good book of rides and takes the mount. Wide draws could make things difficult for Naughty Princess, Workingclasshero and Cape Town Deern.
Winter Blossom ran a ripper on debut behind the huge reputation of Over My Shoulder over 1200m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, finishing a length behind the half-sister to Eight On Eighteen. She runs in Race 2 over 1250m and a repeat should see her in the winner’s box. Callan Murray retains the ride for Lucinda Woodruff. Sabre Wing has something about her too, but Winter Blossom should have more to come.
Race 3 over 1250m is not strong. Kim Chanel gets the chance to maintain her recent good work over 1000m over the extra trip. Her last start was the first indication she might have the tools for the distance when getting going late behind Viridian Ruby. Michelle Rix has her yard in good heart and Kim Chanel should go close.
In Race 4 over 1400m, Time Of Our Lives gets a narrow nod despite gate No 9. He stayed on strongly on debut to finish close-up behind Ile Morris over 1250m and should have improvement to come. Red Hot Rifle, Wreath Of Snow and Gather Quick can also feature. Wreath Of Snow can improve over the extra trip but is still all reputation as a R9-million yearling.
Race 5 over 1400m looks a battle between Big City Roller and California Cat, who both finished second on debut in eye-catching circumstances. Big City Roller came from well back, while California Cat also finished strongly, suggesting further will suit. Big City Roller gets the narrow verdict from a slightly stronger formline.
The next two races are for winners, with Andre Nel and Muzi Yeni holding a strong hand. Cork Bay looks the part in Race 6 over 1250m. He has finished third behind Witch Hazel, then narrowly lost to Lyrical Gangster over the same course and distance before being beaten again over 1200m. With Nel’s yard in good heart, he could finally gain his overdue third career win.
In Race 7 over 1000m, Pushing Limits gets the preference for Yeni and Nel. Her last effort was encouraging when she looked likely to win before Black Erika collared her late. With low mileage, the six-year-old could have more in the locker.
Chinwag should exit the maidens in Race 8 over 1600m. A slow pace cost her last time, but her third in the Listed Iridescence Stakes behind Grapes Of Wrath sets a high standard. Murray is back aboard for Rix, and she could make the running and catch them on the stretch.
Bjorn Ironside Comes Back Fighting in 2026 Spring Spree Stakes
Ka Ying Rising impresses ahead of 2026/27 race return
Zac Purton and David Hayes are confident Ka Ying Rising is poised to extend his remarkable 20-race winning streak after the champion sprinter breezed through a barrier trial at Sha Tin on Sunday (30 August) in preparation for his return to racing in the 2026/27 season-opening meeting on Sunday (6 September).
Jumping from barrier one against 10 rivals, Ka Ying Rising built momentum up the middle of the course before forging clear, clocking 56.73s to score by two lengths from Public Attention and Magic Control as he prepares to chase a third consecutive victory in the HK$4.2 million G3 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m) next weekend.
Rated joint No. 1 in the LONGINES World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, Ka Ying Rising was never pressured to extend by Purton at any stage and his time this afternoon was only marginally outside the 56.45s he clocked in the corresponding trial last season.
Predicting the world’s premier sprinter could still improve, Hayes said: “I feel pretty good. Zac said he didn’t change legs, but he was probably three or four seconds below course record time, so he was doing it very easy, and I just like the way he acted before the trial.
“I think he’s in the right head space and ready to run a race next week. You spell the horses trying to make them bigger and stronger, especially if they’re a sprinter, and he’s bigger and stronger than he’s ever been. So, I still think we have another season of him improving.”
Hong Kong’s reigning joint Horse of the Year, Ka Ying Rising will enter quarantine in Hong Kong for two weeks immediately after his first-up run in the HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup before flying to Sydney, Australia where he will bid for successive wins in the AU$20 million (approx. HK$112 million) G1 The Everest (1200m) at Royal Randwick on 17 October.
Purton, who has ridden Ka Ying Rising in 19 of his 21 victories (with Karis Teetan also scoring twice), said: “It was nice. He jumped out well, he cruised along. He just did enough to tick him over for his race next week. He’s pulled up in pretty good shape. For where he is at the moment, we’re happy with him.
“He’s a bit fitter now, he moved a bit better, his action was a bit better – but he’s back on the grass, too.
“But he was on one leg the whole way, which is frustrating. How does a horse go 1000m up the straight on one leg? Normal horses can’t do it, but he’s got to sort that out when he gets back to the races.”
The 2026/27 Hong Kong racing season starts at Sha Tin on Sunday (6 September), featuring the HK$4.2 million G3 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m).
By Leo SchlinkAugust 30 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore
Exocet is ready to fire
Punters face a testing card at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday, but Mike and Mathew de Kock could provide some relief with Exocet in the Middle Stakes over 1000m, the fifth race on the card.
Now a lightly raced four-year-old, Exocet has an international pedigree and is still an entire. He has won two of his three starts, and the yard has indicated that he is a horse with some ability. He has not raced since winning on the poly in October last year, but the De Kocks are unlikely to send him out half-baked. With only six rivals, he could prove the one to beat.
Gareth van Zyl saddles Vihaan’s Web, who has won over course and distance and seldom runs a poor race. If Exocet fails to fire, he could pick up the pieces. Veteran Donquerari is always dangerous over this trip and has a 4kg claimer aboard, while African Skyline gets first-time blinkers with a 4kg claimer. Both have a money chance.
Big fields face punters in the opening races, including a full house of 16 in the first. One Pepper returns from a break and gelding and, having faced Vibe Check and Kazanoyoni last time, should go close if racing fit. Diaval was well supported on debut but raced green and should improve with experience. Bullet Catch was not far back at long odds and makes his third course appearance, while Maggiano should come on from a promising debut.
Fleur Delacour faces a capacity field in the second. She started at long odds on debut but finished with a flourish, narrowly failing over course and distance, and can go one better. Theleia was disappointing when favourite on her local debut but was returning from a break and can make amends. Abbey’s World improved nicely second time out over course and distance, while Willow Valli has shown up well in two starts under Rachel Venniker.
The De Kocks could hold the key to the opening leg of the Pick 6. Scott’s Bar was a beaten favourite over a sprint last time and now steps up to a mile, which should suit. Stablemate Taranaki Nomad was green and slowly away on debut, also taking a hefty bump, and should improve significantly. Reign Man also steps up in trip after a promising sprint debut and has the best of the draw.
The fourth is a wide-open handicap. Another Dream has joint top weight but has shown up well in two recent course-and-distance starts. Gold Gol Baby is unbeaten in two starts in blinkers, including her latest over this course and distance, while stablemate Heavenly Mafia is 2.5kg better off and gets a light weight.
The final three races are competitive handicaps. In the sixth, Flamethrower gets 4kg relief and could upset some solid handicappers, including Twocantango, who is lightly raced and gets Gavin Lerena. Global Movement is coming down the handicap and looks competitively weighted.
In the seventh, Run Forest Run has the best draw and should go forward. Kitchakal is down in class, while Turbo Twenty has won over course and distance and was narrowly beaten last time. Meerkat Moon improved in blinkers and has a strong money chance.
In the last, Lady Godiva could provide Doug Campbell with the answer. Showgirl should improve from her recent return, while Last Margarita, Dawn Surprise and Rags To Riches all warrant consideration.
Punters have plenty to like at Turffontein
Saturday’s nine-race Inside track programme at Turffontein offers plenty of betting possibilities, with potential doubles for jockeys Gavin Lerena and Calvin Habib, while trainers Tony Peter and Johan Janse van Vuuren have several runners capable of making their presence felt.
The Betway-sponsored Listed Spring Spree Stakes over 1200m is the headline event in Race 7, where Paul Matchett’s Erupt gelding Karate Kid could prove the one to beat. He has the profile to acquit himself well at Listed level and, with a solid pace expected, Blaine Marx-Jacobson could have the right mount to strike when it counts.
The supporting Betway-sponsored The Lady Stakes over 1200m in Race 6 sees Tony Peter throw three chances into the mix. However, punters looking beyond the obvious stable strength may be rewarded by siding with Blizzard Snow, who has drawn gate No 6 for Kobeli James Lihaba.
The Erupt filly has raced three times over this course and distance, winning once and finishing outside the first two only once. She was asked to take on male opposition last time, having previously scored over this track and trip. A repeat of that winning effort from just a two-point higher rating would make her a serious player.
Earlier, in Race 5, stablemate Jack’s Legacy makes her handicap debut over 1200m after opening her account over 1160m on the Standside track. Kabelo Matsunyane retains the ride and further improvement would come as no surprise.
Lerena looks well placed to bag a double, beginning with Stuart Pettigrew-trained Rafeef’s Queen in Race 2 over 1200m. The three-year-old filly has finished runner-up in her last two starts, including a second over this distance, and will not need to find much extra to convert consistency into a first victory. The booking of the former champion rider is an obvious positive.
Lerena returns in Race 8 aboard Van Vuuren-trained Social Graces. The three-year-old daughter of Rafeef won over 1000m on debut before finishing a creditable second over 1100m last month. She conceded 3kg to the winner and was beaten only 1½ lengths, while the fourth-placed runner has since franked the form by winning. There is plenty to like about her prospects.
Habib also has a realistic shot at a double, starting with Two Tigers in Race 1 before partnering Clinton Binda’s progressive Whatsdamatterwithu in Race 3 over 1000m.
The latter is particularly intriguing. The Fire Away gelding has won both starts since being gelded, both over 1160m, and has shown enough natural speed to suggest the sharper 1000m on the Inside track could suit. A favourable No 3 draw is another plus, and a hat-trick bid looks well within his compass.
Clive RobinsonJOCKEY SPOTLIGHT: LACHLAN NEINDORF
You finished last season with 110 winners from 774 rides. What did that consistency teach you about managing your workload and staying sharp across such a long season? It was hard to find a balance to start off with, my workload was high and I was probably running with the tank on empty some race days. Once I was able to find that balance through my manager, having my form man James, a valet and even a driver to and from the races ultimately made me be able to perform at my best race day over a long season. Your move from South Australia to Victoria was designed to create more opportunities. How different do you feel as a rider now compared with when you first made that move? I feel a massive difference as a rider now compared to 12 months ago, I think that has come from riding everyday also. More practice in a way, I’ve been able to challenge myself to get better every day to be able to compete with the best over here, that competition doesn’t go away and it never gets any easier, it’s driven me to fine tune myself as a rider. You have already enjoyed Group 1 success with Phillip Stokes. What makes that relationship work so well, and how important could it be during the spring? I’d say a combination of a few things, we’re both pretty up front no beating around the bush sort of people, I think we both admire hard work and being able to know each individual horse. I know his horses I feel better than any other jockey and those one percenters are going to make an impact for us this spring. After such a strong season, are you now able to be more selective with your rides and focus on horses that could develop into major carnival contenders? I’ve definitely noticed we’ve been offered a larger spread of rides from a number of leading trainers in comparison to when I first moved over from Adelaide. Ultimately riding for those bigger stables, you have a good chance of finding the top-class horses, sometimes it can be hard to pick one in a race come crunch time but it’s not a bad position to be in. What part of your riding has improved most over the past 12 months, whether it is race positioning, judging tempo, strength in a finish or reading a race beforehand? I’d definitely say my pre-race knowledge and being able to dissect a race both before and after the race has been run and won to both trainers and owners has improved. I feel as sharp as I’ve ever been in my career. Split second decisions can be everything and I feel more often than not I’m pulling the right rein. You have shown that your feedback can help trainers unlock improvement in a horse. How involved do you like to be in the development of a horse away from race day? Great question, I love the process that involves a horse getting to the races. The more involvement and knowledge I can have of that horse before I sit in it race day the better. It makes getting the result race day sweeter.
France Express Form & Race Previews (Parislongchamp / Craon) – Sunday,...
South Africa Express Form & Race Previews (Durbanville) – September 6
RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: DURBANVILLE@2026.09.06
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 1, Gallops, 1250m, Turf, R120,000, 12:37GMT+2Race Summary: WAR HAWK is holding form and meets the right field. He is the firm first choice. PREMIER WINTER improved at the second ask and surely has tons more to offer – place chance. KING OF FATE can improve to get a lot closer and has to be respected and THE BIG BANG should get it all right one of these days. Obvious chance.
Selections: #5 WAR HAWK, #2 PREMIER WINTER, #7 KING OF FATE, #11 THE BIG BANG
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 2, Gallops, 1250m, Turf, R120,000, 13:10GMT+2Race Summary: BERT NEL was not far off on debut and with natural progression, should be a serious contender for top honors. SARATOGA SUNRISE is improving and caught the eye at the penultimate start. He has huge each way claims. TEQUILA TANGO has run well in both races thus far and has scope to get way closer. Bright chance. GUNNER GALACTICO is a must for the quartet – fair debut effort.
Selections: #3 BART NEL, #10 SARATOGA SUNRISE, #13 TEQUILA TANGO, #5 GUNNER GALACTICO
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 3, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R100,000, 13:45GMT+2Race Summary: VERSE FOR SUZANNE nearly won on debut. She is excellently bred and should take a power of beating. Banker! Win! DESERT ICE caught the eye first up and surely has tons more to come. Exacta choice. WHAT THE FLUFF showed good progression last time and can be respected and included again for the places. ELUSIVE PROFIT has a first four chance.
Selections: #2 VERSE FOR SUZANNE, #10 DESERT ICE, #9 WHAT THE FLUFF, #11 ELUSIVE PROFIT
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 4, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R140,000, 14:20GMT+2Race Summary: VIVA LA VIDA has returned to better form, has shown plenty ability and rates the one to be with. MENTE ET MANU is knocking loudly at the door for the next victory and it is not impossible that it comes today. Serious chance and danger to the first choice. IT IS MY TIME and MARCUS AURELIUS have serious place claims and need to be included in all trifecta and quartet perms.
Selections: #4 VIVA LA VIDA, #5 MENTE ET MANU, #6 IT IS MY TIME, #7 MARCUS AURELIUS
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 5, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R90,000, 14:55GMT+2Race Summary: Wide open race. In saying that, PACIFIC WATERS, has much in her favour even though she was disappointing last time. She jumps from gate No 1, is well weighted and races for a yard back in form. She is also back over the distance her only win came over. Watch out for the maiden REFINER’S FIRE who is lightly raced and has shown potential. He should relish the step up in distance. JET A ONE hasn’t been far off in slightly stronger heats and could take advantage. LOVERS LANE isn’t out of it either.
Selections: #1 PACIFIC WATERS, #2 REFINER’S FIRE, #4 JET A ONE, #8 LOVERS LANE
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 6, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R110,000, 15:30GMT+2Race Summary: GIN PALACE went very close last time with apprentice Louw whom has come in to town to partner this daughter of Potala Palace again and he will be looking to go one more this time. Plenty of cheek can be expected from DREAM SEARCHER whom can do way better than she did last time. Her overall form is solid and is one for the shortlist. Each way chance. EISTEDDFOD is taking time for the next win but is earning and running well most times. Place chance despite the draw. MONEY EXTRACTOR has been identified as the each way value in the race.
Selections: #7 GIN PALACE, #8 DREAM SEARCHER, #9 EISTEDDFOD, #3 MONEY EXTRACTOR
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 7, Gallops, 2000m, Turf, R90,000, 16:05GMT+2Race Summary: GOLD INDEX is in good winning form and that looks set to continue. He is the one they will all have to fear the most. PHANTOM MAN from the best gate, brings solid post maiden form with him and is one that cannot be taken lightly. Each way chance and Muzi Yeni retains the ride. RUN FOR COVER gets weight off again and should be right there. Strong place chance. ETOILEFILLANTE can be forgiven for the last run and judged on two good efforts before that. Respect and include.
Selections: #4 GOLD INDEX, #1 PHANTOM MAN, #5 RUN FOR COVER, #2 ETOILEFILLANTE
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 8, Gallops, 1250m, Turf, R110,000, 16:40GMT+2Race Summary: FINAL CALL is holding form and is a must for all bets and should be a huge danger. STAR WORLD bounced right back to better form last time and has shown overall ability and looks set to record her third career win. LARK’S SONG caught the eye when winning last time and can go back-to-back. MARITZBURG MEMORY is the suggested place value.
Selections: #5 FINAL CALL, #7 STAR WORLD, #4 LARK’S SONG, #1 MARITZBURG MEMORY
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 06.09.2026, Race 9, Gallops, 1250m, Turf, R145,000, 17:15GMT+2Race Summary: WITCH HAZEL was a narrowly beaten favorite last time but is confidently selected to make amends and is therefore the firm first choice. BLACK CHEETAH showed last time that he is coming right back to himself and should provide plenty cheek all the way home – exacta suggestion. FIERY ROSE has won her last three starts well and there is no reason why she cannot continue on the winning spree. OLIVER shows guts and determination and is a natural for the quartet. His last win was impressive.
Selections: #8 WITCH HAZEL, #2 BLACK CHEETAH, #6 FIERY ROSE, #9 OLIVER
United Kingdom Express Form & Race Previews (Haydock/Ascot/Newcastle) – Saturday, September...
RACE 1: BETFAIR BACKS OPINIONS SUPERIOR MILE STAKES (GROUP 3) (G3) (FROM HAYDOCK RACE 1) – 1602M | TIME: 20:25 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 95000
DANCING GEMINI (IRE) Held up, dropped last 600m, no impression from 400 m, finished last, 14 lengths behind winner at York 2000m in July. PERSICA (IRE) Wore red hood, stayed rear, pushed over 400m out, finished 3rd, 9 lengths behind Archivist at York 1800m in August. HANKELOW (IRE) Prominent, weakened over 200m out, finished 9th, 1 8 lengths behind Archivist at York 1800m Group 3 in A ugust. NEEDLE MATCH Mid-division, 4th halfway, ridden over 200m out, finished 2nd, 1.25 lengths behind Isaac Newton at Leopardstown 1600m in August.
RACE 2: SCHWEPPES HANDICAP (2) (FROM ASCOT RACE 1) – 1408M | TIME: 20:40 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 80000
THUNDER CALL Earplugs off start, mid-pack, gained ground 400m o ut, pushed 200m out, finished strong behind winner, 2nd by 1.5 lengths at Ascot 1200m Ha ndicap in August. ADDISON GREY Wore hood, midfield, progressed between horses over 200m out, led last 100m, won 14 00m Handicap at Newbury by 1.5 lengths in August. GHOST MODE (IRE) Soon led, ridden, headed 400m out, weakened in las t 200m, finished 5th, 5 lengths behind Forty Years On in 1400m Handicap at Goodwood in August. LORD BRITAIN Wore red hood, chased leaders, weakened over 400m out, finished last, 11 lengths behind Lake Forest at 1400m in July.
RACE 3: BETFAIR CELEBRATES BOW ECHO ASCENDANT STAKES (LISTED) (LR) (FROM HAYDOCK RACE 2) – 1602M | TIME: 20:55 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 45000
FIRST LAW (IRE) Wore hood, raced last, improved from 600m out, led in final 200m, held on to narrowly win at Sandown 1600m in August. ROCKET BOY (IRE) Held back, improved from 600m out, finished strong 3rd, 0.75 lengths behind Quest For Stars at Salisbury 1600m i n August. ARTHURIAN Wore hood, led final 200m, headed near 100m, finished 2nd, 2.75 lengths behind winner at Haydock 1600m 2YO Novice Stakes in August. RAFE’S DA MAN Led early, pressed leader at 400m out, took lead at 200m, won Goodwood 1400m Novice Stakes by 1.25 lengths in Aug ust.
RACE 4: TOTE.CO.UK MONEY BACK 2ND HANDICAP (HERITAGE HANDICAP) (GBBPLUS RACE) (2) (FROM ASCOT RACE 2) – 2406M | TIME: 21:10 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 100000
HEYZOOM (IRE) Midfield, bumped and edged left 400m out, kept on final 200m, finished 4th, 3 lengths behind Enceladus at Royal Ascot 2400m Handicap in June. ARCHERS BAY (IRE) Led closely, pushed ahead at 200m, strongly won Ascot 2400m 3YO Handicap, beating King Of Berkshire by 3.5 lengths in August. ANCESTOR Led, challenged past 600m, headed over 200m, rallied, won 2000m Nov ice Stakes at Haydock by neck in August. DECADE OF TIME Wore hood, tracked leaders after 400m, pushed past 400m to go, kept pace, finished 4th, 1.25 lengths behind winner at Goodwood 2000m Handicap in July.
RACE 5: BEST ODDS ON THE BETFAIR EXCHANGE HANDICAP (GBBPLUS RACE) (2) (FROM HAYDOCK RACE 3) – 2816M | TIME: 21:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 100000
GALILEAN QUALITY (IRE) Held back, pushed 800m out, gained ground 400m out despite slight interference, finished strong 2nd, 2 lengths behind winner at York 2800m Handicap in August. MYTHICAL BAY (IRE) Wore red hood, raced wide, weakened over 200m out, finis hed 9th, 8 lengths behind winner at York 2800m Hand icap in August. PIERRE GROSSE Towards rear, pushed 400m out, ran on, never chall enged, finished 8th, 5 lengths behind Archers Bay a t Ascot 2400m Handicap in August. ASIA FORCE (IRE) Led, pushed from 600m out, 3-lengths clear entering final 200m, won comfortably at Carlisle 2800m Handicap, beating Dan ce Time by 6 lengths in August.
RACE 6: TOTE 75K GUARANTEED PLACEPOT TODAY EBF ‘CONFINED’ MAIDEN FILLIES’ STAKES (GBB RACE) (2) (FROM ASCOT RACE 3) – 1207M | TIME: 21:45 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 30000
DANNAHUE (IRE) Mid-division, improved 400m out, strong challenge in last 200m, finished 2nd by head at Yarmouth 1200m Novice Stakes in June. PENSANDO A TE Held up, ridden 400m out, strong finish, just missed by a head, finished 2nd to Speed of Sound at Yarmouth 1200m in August. ASHEYRA (IRE) Held at rear, closed from 400m out, took 3rd, no extra in final 200m, finished 3rd, 3.5 leng ths behind the winner at 1400m in August. LA PITTURA Showcasing filly out of Artemisia Lomi.
RACE 7: BETFAIR EXCHANGE OLD BOROUGH CUP HANDICAP (GBBPLUS RACE) (2) (FROM HAYDOCK RACE 4) – 2816M | TIME: 22:05 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 100000
AEGEAN PRINCE Finished 2nd, 0.5 lengths behind Viking Invasion a t Deauville 2400m 3YO Novice Stakes last October. FINALISE Finished 3rd, 2.25 lengths behind Nastaria over 28 00m at Hoppegarten in August. DANCING IN PARIS (FR) Wore red hood, tracked leaders, switched left 200m out, ran well to win 3200m Handicap at Ascot by 1 length in August. VALEDICTORY Wore hood, slowly away, improved from rear, ridden over 600m out, modestly finished 7th, 8 lengths behind winner Small Fry at 3200m in August.
RACE 8: SILENT POOL GIN ‘CONFINED’ HANDICAP (3) (FROM ASCOT RACE 4) – 2004M | TIME: 22:25 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 30000
GAVRIEL Held up behind leaders, quickened to lead 200m out , headed in final 200m, finished 2nd by 0.5 lengths at 1600m Novice Stakes in August. KAHIN (IRE) Started with earplugs, pressed leader at 400m out, led briefly, finished 4 lengths 2nd at York 2000m in July. LAW COURT (IRE) Held up near rear, waited for space 200m out, ran on to finish 2nd, 2 lengths behind City Of Poets at Winds or 2000m Handicap in August. BALZAC (GER) Wore hood, raced wide early, stressed 400m out, weakened 200m out, finished 14th, 13 lengths behind Lost Boys at Royal Ascot 2000m Handicap in June.
RACE 9: BETFAIR SPRINT CUP STAKES (GROUP 1) (G1) (FROM HAYDOCK RACE 5) – 1207M | TIME: 22:40 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 400000
ALMERAQ Wore hood, raced center, chased leaders, weakened 200m out, finished 9th, 9 lengths behind Comanche Brave at Newmarket 1200m Group 1 in July. KIND OF BLUE Slow start; held back, switched right 400m out, weakened in final 200m, finished 11th, 5 lengths be hind Almeraq at Royal Ascot 1200m Group 1 in June. BIG MOJO (IRE) Tracked leader, 2nd halfway, led early final 200m, kept on well, won 1200m Group 3 at Curragh, beating Bucanero Fuerte by 1.25 lengths in August. MARVELMAN (IRE) Wore red hood, led until final 200m, finished 3rd, 3 lengths behind Notable Speech at York 1400m Group 1 in August.
RACE 10: DOWNLOAD THE TOTE APP BRITISH EBF PREMIER FILLIES’ HANDICAP (STR) (2) (FROM ASCOT RACE 5) – 1609M | TIME: 23:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 40000
ROSA INGLESA Finished 9th, 9 lengths behind Canneza in 1400m Li sted Stakes at Deauville in August. NANINO NIYATI Chased leaders, pushed 400m out, finished strongly , pressed leader late, narrowly 2nd by a nose to Ru mba Numba at Goodwood 1600m Handicap in July. DATE LINE Led, headed 200m out, finished 1.25 lengths 2nd to Gilding The Lily in 1600m Novice Stakes at Newmarket in August. TRYST (IRE) Midfield, blocked 400m out, weakened before last 100m, finished 11th, 10 lengths behind Machadadorp at York 1400m Handicap in August.
RACE 11: BETFAIR BE FRIENDLY HANDICAP (2) (FROM HAYDOCK RACE 6) – 1006M | TIME: 23:15 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 45000
TRILBY Last, shaken up 400m out, kept on well 200m out, clear lead inside final 200m, won Beverley 1000m Handicap, beating Francisco’s Piece by 0.75 lengths in August. ELARA MAY Raced last, waited for space at 400m out, moved to 2nd at 200m, finished strong 2nd inside last 200m at 1000m by 0.5 lengths in August. ARKLOW LAD (IRE) Early pace with red hood, mid-pack, weakened last 2 00m, finished last, 9 lengths behind Corolla Point at Hamilton 1000m Handicap in August. POATAN (IRE) Midfield, progressed 400m out, maintained pace in final 200m, finished 7th, 5 lengths behind Miss Yechance at York 1000m Handicap in Augu st.
RACE 12: CLUB26 HANDICAP (2) (FROM ASCOT RACE 6) – 1207M | TIME: 23:35 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 35000
GOLDEN LONG (AUS) Wore hood, stayed rear, pushed 400m out, shiftedl eft, strong finish in last 200m, won by short head at Doncaster 1200m Handicap in Au gust. DILIGENTL Y Mid-division, pushed over 400m out, challenged 3rd at 200m, finished 1.2 lengths 2nd behind Trefor at Windsor 1200m Handicap in August. HAVANA BLUE Led after close midfield, pressed over 200m out, won well by 0.5 le ngths at Newmarket 1200m Handicap in August. FERROUS (IRE) Tracked leaders, ridden over 400m out, weakened, fi nished 25th, 16 lengths behind Evening Saigon at Go odwood 1200m Handicap in August.
RACE 13: HKJC WORLD POOL HANDICAP (3) (FROM HAYDOCK RACE 7) – 1401M | TIME: 23:50 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 30000
RHOSCOL YN Midfield, improved over 400m out, stayed on in fin al 200m, finished 2nd, 1.75 lengths behind Aurora Majesty at Epsom Downs 1400m Handicap in Aug ust. BRIAN (IRE) Midfield, switched right and ridden 400m out, finished 2nd, 3 lengths behind winner at Newbury 14 00m Handicap in June. BRIGHTON BOY (IRE) Chased leaders, rallied in final 200m, finished 3rd, 0.75 lengths behind St ation Xat Chester 1200m Handicap in August. CAPE ASHIZURI (IRE) Earplugs off at start, led then chased leaders, pus hed 400m out, faded last 200m, finished 4th, 6 leng ths behind winner at 1200m Handicap in August.
RACE 14: TOTE.CO.UK FOR RACING & SPORTS BETTING HANDICAP (2) (FROM ASCOT RACE 7) – 1006M | TIME: 00:10 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 35000
FLUORESCENCE Midfield, improved after 200m, strong finish, led last 100m, won 1000m Handicap at Pontefract by 1.25 lengths in August. MAELSTROM Stayed near rear, improved over 400m, pressed lead ers in last 200m, led near finish, won by head at Newmarket 1000m Han dicap in August. RHYTHM N HOOVES Wore hood, led and pressed over 200m out, briefly headed, regained lead, won 1 000m Handicap at Newbury, beating Hypnotised by nec k in August. CINQUE VERDE Mid-division, weakened 200m out, finished 9th, 8 lengths behind Tuco Salamanca at Ascot 1000m Handicap in August.
RACE 15: BETFAIR.BETFAIR HANDICAP (4) (FROM HAYDOCK RACE 8) – 1602M | TIME: 00:25 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 20000
THE SWEET ESCAPE Prominent, led 400m out, ridden last 200m, won at Newmarket 1600m Handicap by 3 lengths over Currumbin in August. MILITARY LEADER Tracked wide early, mid-division, smooth progress over 600m out, led well over 200m, won by 4 lengths at Thirsk 1600 m Handicap in August. CROWN OFFICE Wore earplugs, slow start, moved up after 800m, chased winner, ridden after 40 0m, finished 0.75 lengths 2nd at Nottingham 2000m H andicap in July. YANIFER Led early, prominent, ridden over 400m out, weakened passing 200m, finished 10th, 6 lengths behind Wh ip Cracker in 1600m Handicap in August.
RACE 16: CHRISTMAS PARTIES AT NEWCASTLE RACECOURSE NOVICE STAKES (GBB RACE) (3) (FROM NEWCASTLE RACE 4) – 1421M | TIME: 00:57 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 13000
GEOMETRY Kodiac colt out of Fountain Of Time. CRYSTAL DARK Mohaather gelding out of Mamma Morton. MR MINZ (IRE) Chased leader, challenged 400m out, kept on final 200m, finished 3rd, 1.5 lengths behind Weleyff over 1400m in July. ST HELIER Slowly away, held at rear, closed near 200m, finis hed 5th, 6 lengths behind Sonic Angel at Newcastle 1200m Novice Stakes in July.
RACE 17: MINI GOLF AT HIGH GOSFORTH PARK FILLIES’ HANDICAP (4) (FROM NEWCASTLE RACE 5) – 1207M | TIME: 01:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 10800
DARK ANGEL LIGHT (IRE) Close behind leaders, improved over 200m, led final 200m, won Doncaster 1200m Novice Stakes, beating Regional Rock by neck in June. PERSIAN SPIRIT (IRE) Chased leaders, hampered early, mid-division, pushed last 400m, no progress, finished 7th, 6 lengths behind Drama at Kempton 1200m Han dicap last September. ORMOLULU (IRE) Slow start, stayed rear, pushed 600m out, ridden 4 00m out, outpaced near finish, stayed on inside, finished 5th, 2.5 lengths behind winner at 1200m in July. LADY KODIAC (IRE) Midfield, weakened 400m out, dropped last before 200m, finished 5th, 6 lengths behind Si ng The Blues at Newmarket 1200m Filly Handicap in July.
RACE 18: DOWNLOAD THE RACECOURSE APP RACEDAY READY HANDICAP (5) (FROM NEWCASTLE RACE 6) – 1207M | TIME: 02:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
GREAT PROFIT (IRE) Led early, pushed to lead 200m out, won well at Th irsk 1200m 3YO Handicap, beating Yellow Diamonds by 2.25 lengths in August. SEA HER EXCEL Early to post with hood, led, pressed 400m out, headed 200m out, finished 3rd, 1.75 lengths behind Whizzy Dizzy at Lingfield 1000m Filliy Handicap in August. MARCH AHEAD Started near rear, improved slightly over 200m, no impact, weakened in final 200m, finished 5th, 8 le ngths behind Tricky Tel at Hamilton 1200m Handicap in May. RILEY ROCKS Wore hood, midfield, pushed after 900m, hung right , raced wide, kept pace, finished 4th, 6 lengths behind win ner at 1200m in August.
RACE 19: FREE TIPS ON ATTHERACES.COM HANDICAP (DIV 1) (5) (FROM NEWCASTLE RACE 7) – 1421M | TIME: 02:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
SUNRISEONTHEBOYNE (IRE) Prominent led after 200m, ridden, led by 1 length with 400m to go; pressed near 200m, won by 0.5 lengths at Newcastle 1600m Ha ndicap in September. JAMAICAN STORM Held back, moved left 200m out, led inside final 200m, edged right, won b y 0.75 lengths at Newcastle 1400m Handicap in July. FEEL THE NEED Wore red hood, stayed rear, pushed 400m out, kepto n, finished 6th, 3.5 lengths behind King Of Fury at Southwell 1400m Handicap in July. CRIMINAL SHORE (IRE) Broke right, keen early, held 3rd, 2.25 lengths be hind winner Sunriseontheboyne at 1600m Handicap at Newcastle in September.
RACE 20: FREE TIPS ON ATTHERACES.COM HANDICAP (DIV 2) (5) (FROM NEWCASTLE RACE 8) – 1421M | TIME: 03:00 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8400
CORAMENTO Held at rear, advanced 400m out, led inside final 200m, won Newcastle 1400m Handicap by 3.5 lengths in July. ANTHROPOLOGIST Midfield, urged 400m out, strong finish in last 20 0m, finished 3rd, 1 length behind Timely Affair at Southwell 1400m Handicap in July. FINN IRONSIDE Led, ridden over 200m out, headed inside final 200 m, one pace, finished 2nd by 3.5 lengths to Coramento at Newcastle 1400m Handicap in July. BENACRE (IRE) Behind midfield, gained ground over 400m, chased leaders at 200m, weakened inside final 100m, finished 5th, 5 lengths behind Hale End at Ayr 1600m Handicap in July.



























