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Sha Tin Track Spy: Sunday, 8 February

February 7, 2026

2026 Abu Dhabi Gold Cup Contestants

February 6, 2026

Racing in the Middle East is not just growing, but surging. Further proof arrives this week with the inaugural running of the US$1 million Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, a race that will draw a field full of depth and quality of international talent rarely seen at this time of year. From its very first edition, this contest announces itself as a major new pillar on the global racing calendar. Headlining a stellar field are two familiar names to UAE racegoers: Maljoom, now trained by Michael Costa, and Quddwah, representing the powerful Simon & Ed Crisford operation. Both horses have made an immediate impact since relocating from Europe, quickly becoming flagbearers for the quality and ambition of racing in the region. For Maljoom, the Gold Cup marks the launch of his 2026 campaign and what a stage to begin on. He heads down the highway to Abu Dhabi just months after a courageous third in the Group 1 Dubai Turf, where he charged home late behind global heavyweights Romantic Warrior and Soul Rush. Formerly trained by William Haggas, Maljoom now joins Michael Costa, a stable renowned for delivering on racing’s biggest occasions. Carrying the famous colours of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, bringing success and expectation that come with them. The colours have become synonymous with elite racing in Abu Dhabi and beyond, and once again they will be central to calculations for anyone assessing this race. Sharing those colours is Quddwah, a colt who has already shown this season that he belongs at the very top. His victory in the Group 2 Zabeel Mile on debut in the region was nothing short of electric, an emphatic statement of intent. The Crisfords knew they had a serious horse when he consistently held his own against Europe’s best across the UK and France, and that belief has been swiftly vindicated on UAE soil. The Abu Dhabi Gold Cup now brings it all together. Stars from Japan, leading contenders from Europe, and the very best of the Middle East will clash on a stage befitting their talent. It is a powerful showcase, not just for these two outstanding horses, but for Abu Dhabi Racing as a whole, as the meeting is broadcast to the world and the region’s strength in depth shines firmly in the spotlight. Pat Comerford speaks with two of the principal contenders ahead of this world-class contest, as the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup positions itself to take UAE racing to the next level and announces Abu Dhabi as an unmissable destination for the global racing audience.

Straight Arron goes for gold in Centenary Vase at Sha Tin

February 6, 2026

Straight Arron (135lb) must overcome a hefty impost in Sunday’s (8 February) HK$4.2 million G3 Centenary Vase Handicap (1800m) at Sha Tin, but trainer David Hayes believes the step back in grade can prove to be a decisive factor for the contest’s highest-rated runner. Preparing to face six opponents, seven-year-old Straight Arron tops the field, rated 110 against Beauty Joy (134lb), last year’s winner Chancheng Glory (132lb), Encountered (126lb), Speed Dragon (126lb), Ensued (125lb) and Numbers (115lb). Three of the past five Centenary Vase winners have carried 115lb or less. Frankie Lor’s Four-Year-Old Classic Series aspirant Numbers, an exciting one-time victor in Hong Kong who placed at Group 1 level pre-import in Australia, carries the featherweight due to his 90-rating. Hayes, a dual Hong Kong Champion Trainer (1997/98 & 1998/99), said of Straight Arron: “I think the class will come through. If he has a good day, he can compete at this level. He’s back to his class in Group 3 racing – he’s probably a Group 3 horse.” Straight Arron was seventh and eighth, respectively, behind Romantic Warrior in the HK$40 million G1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (2000m) and HK$13 million G1 Stewards’ Cup (1600m). He was fourth in successive Group 2 races beforehand. “He was a bit disappointing (last start), but he was racing against the elite. I think he will really appreciate the drop in class, and his trackwork has been good. His work on Tuesday (3 February) was very good,” Hayes said. Raced by Karen Lo, who also owns Cap Ferrat, two-time Group 2 winner Straight Arron clocked 1m 22.5s (31.4, 28.7, 22.4) at Sha Tin on Tuesday morning. The Fastnet Rock gelding has five career wins in Hong Kong for HK$21.76 million in earnings. Straight Arron’s biggest scalps are the 2023 HK$5.35 million G2 BOCHK Jockey Club Cup (2000m) and 2025 HK$5.35 million G2 Chairman’s Trophy (1600m). Dylan Browne McMonagle rides the bay from gate four on Sunday. Hayes saddles four-year-olds Fortune Boy (120lb) and Supreme Mastermind (115lb) in the Class 3 Yau Oi Handicap (1800m). “I think he’ll (Fortune Boy) step up on the weekend – he’s in great form. He’s always strong, and he has form around Invincible Ibis. I think he’s better than Class 3,” Hayes said. Fortune Boy links with Brenton Avdulla in barrier two, while Keith Yeung is on Supreme Mastermind, drawn in six, who finished a fast-closing fourth at Sha Tin two starts ago. Shamus Storm (118lb) takes aim at the Class 3 Yan Tin Handicap (1400m) for Hayes, stepping from gate six with Maxime Guyon aboard. The Shamus Award four-year-old injured his right fore ligament following his first-up fourth last October over this course and distance. Hayes said: “He got injured after his first-up run, and he had an easy time. He’s going in off one trial and a big break, so I would think whatever he does will be improved on.” Hayes also saddles Lucky Secret, All Round Winner, Ryui Kokoroe and Let’s Have Fun. Sunday’s (8 February) 11-race fixture at Sha Tin begins at 12.30pm with the Class 5 Fu Tai Handicap (1400m). By Declan Schuster

February 7 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore

February 6, 2026

It has been a steady start the Banker’s Stable following the first month of the 2026 season with five winners from multiple runners and four-time winner BANKER’S EIGHTYONE is a chance to add to the tally in the 1275m Class 4B contest (Race 3). Posting four wins from twelve starts in Malaysia, the five-year-old was a fraction unlucky when finishing 3rd over 1200m here a fortnight ago. The booking of jockey Nuqman Faris can be viewed as a positive also with the senior hoop riding BANKER’S EIGHTYONE to three successive victories towards the end of last year. CHEVAL PEGASUS and WAIT U KNOW have both scored previously over the track and trip and are proven at Class 4 level. Former Australian galloper QI FU FORTUNE trialed very well behind talented sprinter NOAH KHAN here a month ago and is one to watch when he resumes for trainer HY Cheng in the 1275m Class 4A (Race 5). Starting twice in Australia for one win, the four-year-old has not raced for over twelve months but appears a likely type based on trial form. His main rival will be BANKER’S GLORY coming off a fast-finishing second behind the smart STRONG DRAGON and is a chance despite the wide draw while TAU KEH SOH will strike back soon in this grade. Another galloper who performed well at the January 27 trial session was three-year-old SUPERB WINNER, who resumes in the 1200m Open Maiden (Race 6). Winning his trial by 20 lengths on the sand, the juvenile may be looking forward to a lucrative campaign as he steps out for the first time since making his debut on July 27 last year. The race should provide a reliable form line considering he was beaten a length into 3rd placing behind Singha Bay, a progressive type currently strutting his wares against Class 3 company. Another interesting runner debuting for the Buffalo Stable is NAVARRE, trained by Simon Dunderdale which has also performed well at the trials recently. With strong provincial Victorian form to his credit (6 placings from 12 starts), the Written Tycoon four-year-old is a definite proposition first up since April. PACIFIC ENERGY and SECRET WONDER filled the quinella in a 1200m Class 3 contest three weeks ago and the pair will clash again in Race 7 this Saturday. PACIFIC ENERGY has progressed nicely following two wins from six starts locally and form pole position should receive all the favours in the run. SECRET WONDER carved out a fast final section to finish only a neck behind after sprinting from midfield and returned to the form he displayed when scoring at his first two Malaysian starts last season. BANKER’S VICTORY has performed well in three local runs, including a Class 4 victory in December and is coming off a 3rd placing in a strong Supreme B contest won by Latin Legend here on January 11. Unfortunately for those punters which backed FORTUNE WHEEL here three weeks ago, they were left without a collect but it may pay to stick with the seven-year-old in the 1400m Class 4A (Race 10). Pulling up with a respiratory issue, FORTUNE WHEEL finished out of the placings but his trial win over group winner Lucky Magic during the week places him in good stead for a winning return. FLYING NEMO is close to breaking his Malaysian duck and is perfectly suited dropping back to Class 4 grade while SMART CAT looks a progressive type and is coming off an impressive 1200m Open Novice win here four weeks ago.

Salani Kahle to master his fate

February 6, 2026

The first race on the card at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday, 8th February, gets underway at 11:35pm, and it looks to be a two-horse race between Green Energy and Buffalo King Cody. Green Energy, for Adam Azzie and Serino Moodley, caught the eye on debut when finishing a close second at this venue. Buffalo King Cody is improving with racing and should provide plenty of cheek all the way home. He is from the visiting Tony Peter stable. A good race opens the meeting. Race two, a Maiden Juvenile Plate over 1000m, is at 12:05pm and the firm first pick is the Mike Miller-trained Japura. She is improving with racing experience and looks cherry-ripe for victory today. Sovereign Gem is the selection to take first prize in the third race. She is trained by Alyson Wright and will be ridden by Keagan De Melo. This filly has been catching the eye and her last effort was very good — the one to beat. Peach Melba and Past Is Prologue should fight out the finish of the fourth race on the card, with Peach Melba being the narrow first choice. Calvin Habib rides the filly for the first time. There is a possible banker in the fifth from the Nathan Kotzen barn — Etzebeth. He caught the eye on debut, gets the best draw, tries extra distance, and meets an average field. Salani Kahle has grabbed the attention of many as a very talented and progressive colt from the Gareth Van Zyl stable. He lines up in the sixth race but will start from the widest draw. His maiden win and post-maiden win have been ultra-impressive and he can be followed with great interest. The seventh race over 1750m sees the horse drawn at gate one, French Trip, as the first selection. This son of Trippi ran an absolute cracker in the Michael Roberts Stakes last time and can be given serious each-way claims. He will get valuable weight off his back from claiming apprentice Mxolisi Mbutho, who partnered him last time. Talking of the Michael Roberts Stakes, the winner of that race, Down By The River, lines up in the eighth and has every chance of following up. He impressed when trotting up and beating Queue Wing by nearly three lengths. Talented stayer King Pelles is the obvious danger and can be expected to serve up far more than he did in the Betway Summer Cup on the Highveld on the 29th of November. Amor Fati and Isivivane have strong place chances and must be included in most betting perms. Races nine and ten are competitive, and it is advisable to include as many runners as the budget will allow. All in all, another competitive but exciting day’s racing awaits at Hollywoodbets Scottsville. With ten races on offer, there are plenty of betting opportunities. Punt and play well! Warren Lenferna

Guineas Day sets Classic Agenda at Turffontein

February 6, 2026

The Highveld’s autumn narrative begins in earnest on Saturday 7 February at Turffontein Standside, where a competitive nine-race card is framed around the opening salvos of South Africa’s two great three-year-old journeys. The Grade 2 Gauteng Guineas and Grade 2 Gauteng Fillies Guineas, both over a demanding 1600m, launch the SA Triple Crown and the Wilgerbosdrift SA Triple Tiara respectively. This is the stage where reputations are either rubber-stamped or ruthlessly punctured, and where betting markets often lag behind the deeper classic picture. The road ahead is clearly defined; Saturday 7 March brings the Grade 1 SA Classic and Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Classic over 1800m, before the ultimate stamina tests on Saturday 4 April in the Grade 1 SA Derby and Grade 2 Wilgerbosdrift SA Oaks over a searching 2450m. With a R2-million bonus awaiting any Triple Crown winner in 2026, and R1-million on offer to a filly who can sweep the Triple Tiara, these are not merely prestige races, they are long-term betting puzzles with serious upside. The Wilgerbosdrift Gauteng Fillies Guineas (Race 6) revolves around Eastern Cape star Golden Palm, who sets the standard on her Highveld reappearance. Alan Greeff’s Champion Two-Year-Old filly landed the Grade 2 Fillies Nursery at Turffontein last season and returns to the ‘Big T’ after a slightly deflating sixth as the odds-on favourite in the Grade 1 Cape Fillies Guineas at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth – her first experience of a left-hand bend, so that run is easily forgiven. Golden Palm is unbeaten in three right-handed starts, including victories at Fairview and Hollywoodbets Greyville, the latter coming in the Grade 1 Thekwini Stakes at the end of last term. Back on a right-hand turn, drawn in pole position, and partnered by Craig Zackey, she looks primed to control matters. Her pedigree adds further intrigue: her dam Croisette is a half-sister to 2016 Fillies Classic and Oaks winner Juxtapose, suggesting the Triple Tiara bonus may not be just a pipe dream. She will not have things her own way. Hazy Dazy brings proven course-and-distance form after winning the Grade 3 Fillies Mile, while runner-up Charge It has franked that form by landing the Listed War Of Athena Handicap. Western Cape raider Lowveld Lily, Justin Snaith’s sole runner on the card, finished a length ahead of Golden Palm in the Cape Fillies Guineas and demands respect. The Gauteng Guineas (Race 7) for colts and geldings hinges on whether Trust can bounce back. If he reproduces his Grade 2 Dingaans performance over course and distance, when beating subsequent Grade 1 Cape Guineas winner Jan Van Goyen, he should be very hard to contain. His below-par effort as a beaten odds-on favourite in the Grade 3 Got The Greenlight Stakes over 1400m is a concern. However, the extra 200m suits and he is also 2kg better off with re-opposing rivals Splittheeights, his last-start conqueror, and the latter’s stablemate One Eye On Vegas (runner-up in that race). Sean Tarry, as ever, looms large. Tin Pan Alley improved markedly with a tongue-tie fitted last time (retained), while unbeaten Grand Empire was only just denied in a Listed course-and-distance contest against older horses – his first defeat in four starts and a serious Guineas trial. Away from the Classics, the standout betting proposition on the card looks to be Callmegetrix in Race 8 over 1600m. This Tarry-trained filly won a similar course-and-distance race last time and a three-point penalty is unlikely to halt her progress. Mickaëlle Michel retains the ride and her 1.5kg allowance only sweetens the deal. Clive Robinson

United Nation can keep on rolling

February 5, 2026

United Nation has been flawless on the Hollywoodbets Greyville poly, unbeaten in four starts, and Darryl Moore looks to have found the right race for a fifth straight win when the gelding heads the card in the B Stakes over 1000m. Drawn widest in the nine-horse field, he again benefits from Mxolisi Mbuto’s 2.5kg claim, giving him a handy galloping weight.

The main threat could be Umzingeli Wenyathi from the Clinton Binda yard. A rare Cape raider, he won first up on the poly last time out, has only once finished out of the money in nine starts, and retains 4kg claimer Sifiso Bungane. Poly specialist Good Traveller, a seven-time winner, arrives off a narrow victory but may prefer further, while Jet Legacy brings solid turf form back to the poly.

The card opens with Higher Love, who has improved on the poly and was narrowly beaten last start from a wide draw. Saudi Sweep disappointed on turf last time after good poly form, while Cape debutant Whatastar could improve locally.

Skyline Bell showed marked progress at her second run and makes her poly debut in the second, with steady improver Praise De La Rey also respected. Skipper O’Malley narrowly beat Skyline Bell previously but may be more exposed.

In the first leg of the Pick 6, Black Platina enjoys course-and-distance credentials, while Levitator returns to his preferred surface despite a wide draw. Takeyourbestshot is overdue but has been unlucky at the gates.

Rahhabba has come on nicely since arriving in KZN and has a good draw in a competitive fourth, with in-form Happy Fortune and consistent De Vlugge also featuring. Amafort looks overdue in the fifth, while Mystique Rouge can reverse placings with Izibulo on better terms.

Queue Wing has improved in blinkers in the sixth and looks well weighted, with Wild At War and lightly raced Clever Trevor also in the mix. The finale is tricky, but Acacia’s Blossom, Indecent Proposal and improving Rock Music all have claims.

Overall, a competitive poly card, but United Nation remains the one they all have to beat.

JOCKEY SPOTLIGHT: MATTHEW POON

February 4, 2026

Take us back to the very beginning. Do you remember your first winner, and what emotions hit you crossing the line that day? Yes, a horse called Sutanoc. Can’t believe that I can got my first win in my first meeting! It really was an incredible feeling. Hong Kong is one of the toughest riding environments in the world. What was the moment you realised you genuinely belonged at this level? Everything happened very fast. They are very competitive, aggressive and sharp. Very proud to be amongst this talented group. Every jockey has a ride they still replay in their mind. What’s the greatest moment you’ve experienced in the saddle so far, and why does it stand above the rest? I would say my first Group 2 winner – STRAIGHT ARRON. Completed within my plan and won by a small margin. When the pressure is at its highest – big crowd, big race, small margins – what’s going through your mind in the final 400 metres? I only feel the pressure at the parade ring. Since jump on the horse then all good. Going to the final 400m, I just stay focused and alert. How has riding in Hong Kong shaped you differently compared to other racing jurisdictions, both technically and mentally? Riding against with them I must continuously hone my riding skills to stay competitive. Learn how they ride and determine the strategy before the race and to make a quick decision during the race. The intense atmosphere and high expectations from both owners and fans can foster a resilient mentality. Learn how to cope with pressure and maintain focus under stress. Are there certain trainers, horses, or riding styles that have played a major role in your development as a jockey? Richard Jolly who was my master when I was in Adelaide, Australia. He probably was the major role in my career. He taught me how to read and ride a race. Setbacks are part of the sport. What’s been the toughest period of your career to date, and what did it teach you about resilience? After becoming a professional jockey, it was the most difficult time for me. When I didn’t have an allowance anymore, I needed to regain the support and trust of trainers and the owners. The only way I could do that is work hard, stay positive and rebuild support step by step. Away from race day, what does a typical week look like for you in terms of preparation, fitness, and studying races? Doing physical therapy, doing exercise to control weight, and watching replays. Looking ahead, what ambitions are driving you right now? Is it premierships, Group 1 success, riding internationally, or something deeper? I got a few things want to achieve – Group 1 success of course, represent Hong Kong to ride overseas, enhancing the strength and status of local Hong Kong jockeys in the world. When your career is eventually looked back on, how would you like Matthew Poon the jockey to be remembered within Hong Kong racing? I hope to achieve some success in Hong Kong horse racing so that future local Hong Kong jockeys can take it a step further.

Happy Valley Track Spy: Wednesday, 4 February

February 4, 2026

Last-start winners value for follow-up Vaal victories

February 4, 2026

Punters hunting value on the Highveld’s midweek fare on Thursday 5 February are spoiled for choice at Vaal’s Classic track where an honest eight-race card features several last-start winners who look ideally placed to go back-to-back, alongside a couple of Gavin Lerena rides whose progress it could pay to follow. The follow-up theme kicks off in Race 4 over 1800m with Dimako’s Jet, who did everything right when scoring over the same distance on New Year’s Day. The lightly raced daughter of Ideal World finished off strongly under Muzi Yeni to account for Future Date, who is now 1kg worse off after franking the form with a subsequent 2000m victory. Yeni’s decision to stick with Dimako’s Jet is a telling pointer. Weichong Marwing’s mare absorbed a five-point penalty for that win but she remains progressive, especially with blinkers – worn in her last two starts – sharpening her focus. She looks like a confident banker in exotic bets. A similar profile belongs to Merryweather who lines up in Race 5 over 1800m. Johan Janse van Vuuren’s improving Gimmethegreenlight filly was good value when beating male opposition over 1600m last time and a modest two-point rise shouldn’t stop the roll. This is her first attempt beyond 1600m, but her pedigree screams stamina (her dam is a full sister to 2016 SA Derby runner-up Rocketball) suggesting she’s only just getting started. Off a career-high mark, she still rates a value follow-up play. Never Never Land announced himself as one to follow when justifying solid market support under Lerena four weeks ago. The Stuart Pettigrew-trained Ideal World gelding quickened nicely to win over 1200m and the extra 250m in Race 7 looks tailor-made. There are three other last-start winners in the line-up, but none with the same scope for improvement – save perhaps recent maiden scorer Gulf Of America. Lerena staying loyal is another box ticked. In Race 6 over 1600m, Lerena also reunites with the ultra-consistent Max The Magician, and the return to 1600m could be decisive. Roy Magner’s charge was outsprinted late over 1200m last time when a close-up fourth under Yeni, but the longer trip, a plum draw in gate 2 and Lerena back in the irons make for a compelling winning recipe. Clive Robinson

Kamchatka ready to erupt

February 3, 2026

There is nothing anti-climactic about Wednesday’s Hollywoodbets Kenilworth card, with a competitive 10-race programme highlighted by the Clapham Stakes (1600m) in race 8.

Kamchatka headlines the meeting after a sharp drop in class following two strong stakes efforts. She finished 1,5 lengths behind Cape Town Met runner Legal Counsel over this course and distance before holding her own in the One Voucher Victress Stakes over 1800m. Despite top weight of 60kg, she looks well placed under Serino Moodley for Andre Nel. Notably, she is the only runner older than three in the race, and recent three-year-old form appears some way below the best fillies seen earlier in the season.

Beach Verse continues to improve steadily and remains unbeaten outside the top four. While she has faced modest opposition, her pedigree—by Vercingetorix out of Beach Beauty—demands respect. Educator is another with claims after a convincing last-start win, where she beat Boozy Suzie with something in hand. With Craig Zackey aboard, further progress is possible.

Race 7 sees Empire State as the top choice. Now third run back from a seven-month break, he shaped encouragingly when fourth behind Demanding Dave and should be nearing peak fitness. Three Tigers, Gold Giboski and North Point are promising sprinters who will be well tested here.

Earlier on the card, Sweet Green and Hero’s Journey look the main players in the 1000m opener, with Sweet Green’s early speed possibly decisive. Swift Serenity appeals in race 2, taking on males with a weight concession and Gavin Lerena aboard.

Cantona is expected to build on a surprise debut second in race 3, while Ferryman’s eye-catching debut makes him one to watch in race 4, boasting elite family connections.

Viva’s Liberté returns from a break in race 5 and is highly regarded despite this being a low-pressure run. Supreme Fate stands out as one of the best bets in race 9, while Flying South is a tentative selection in the closing event.

Hot Sauce is an Enchanting Choice

February 2, 2026

Trainer Alan Greeff and stable jockey Richard Fourie have had a quiet time of late. Punters were getting used to three or four winners a meeting but it has dried up this month. Every trainer goes through quiet times and once in a while it does happen to the Eastern Cape champion trainer. That should also start to change very soon and they can have a couple of winners on the Fairview Polytrack on Tuesday. It can start as early as Race 3, a Pinnacle Stakes over 2000m, where Greeff has four of the seven runners. Best of them is clearly Enchanting Choice, booked to jockey Kendall Minnie at the moment. This five-year-old mare is carded to run on Friday 30 January but do not be surprised if Greeff pulls her out for Friday and runs her in this instead. A change of riders could also come into effect. The Rafeef mare has been very good in her two starts on the Polytrack, winning once and finished a close-up third to Splicethemainbrace. The step up to 2000m on Tuesday should play to her strength as she packs a decent finish. Greeff does have decent back-up in the form of First Wish, the ride of Andrew Fortune, Walkonthewildside (Richard Fourie) and Green Isle (Xolane Ndlovu). None of Enchanting Choice’s stable companions would be surprise winners. Filly Hot Sauce represents the Fourie-Greeff combination in Race 7, a MR 86 Handicap for over 1200m. The well-bred three-year-old filly won on debut and has not been disgraced in her three starts since then. The daughter of Canford Cliffs returned from a break and found some speedy fillies and mares a bit quicker than her on the day but was reportedly coughing so that run is easily ignored. She chased home a fast filly in Danish Dynamite in her only run on this surface and that form is good enough to suggest Hot Sauce is worth a bet. Once again Greeff does have back-up in the form of much-improved Happy Wives. If nothing has panned out until the last race it might pay to go each-way on Palancar. Trainer Cliffie Miller has his runners in good shape and Palancar is a course-and-distance winner. He has cracked pole position draw, and his last run is best ignored. Clive Robinson

Sha Tin Track Spy: Sunday, 1 February

January 31, 2026

February 1 Perak Preview By Mark Lydeamore

January 30, 2026

Local trainer Asogan Thangaraja has had a relatively quiet start to the season after posting a personal best 33 winners last year striking at 14%. Seven-year-old mare FLAMING PHOENIX has performed well in four runs for the camp since November and is a chance to break an eighteen-month drought in the 1400m Class 5B (Race 1). Descending to a career low rating of 27 points, she comes off three minor placings in a row and drops back to the “B” division of Class 5. Another Ipoh trainer, William Looi will be represented by a couple of veteran campaigners at ten years of age this Sunday in the form of SALAMENCE in Race 2 (1400m Class 5A) and BIONICS engaged in Race 4 (1100m Class 5B). SALAMENCE has not scored since winning at his first couple of Malaysian runs back in March last year when prepared by Richard Lim and recent form suggests he is nearing a win. The gelding has started seven times recording three placings for the Looi stable and the former Class 2 performer is a definite watch, fifth start back in his grade. BIONICS has won three times from six attempts at the track and distance and like his stable mate, is also searching for his first success since March last year. The Hinchinbrook gelding has also descended to a career low of 26 points and looks well weighted with the 54.5kg. One horse to watch here is LAXON, which resumes and has been working well at the track in recent weeks. The five-year-old races best when freshened and may provide the value. From the trial session conducted at the track here on Tuesday morning, GOLDEN SHOW and SILVER JOY both performed well recording sub-minute performances for the their respective 1000m trial wins on the sand. Both runners clashed in a 1200m contest on January 4 with GOLDEN SHOW finishing 3rd and SILVER JOY 4th, a further 1.5L behind in the race won by Legend Of The Sun. The rematch occurs in the 1400m Class 5B contest (Race 8) as they go up against recent winner, ELECTRONIC BOOM who possesses a good record over the 1400m trip. Former Macau galloper FLAWLESS, engaged in Race 9, created an immediate impact on the local circuit when scoring by eight lengths in a Class 3 on his Malaysian debut back in November 2024 before following up with further success in a Supreme B contest for trainer Ricky Choi. The horse was known as Revue back then before a change in name and ownership developed early last year and the horse was transferred to Wayne Lim for his 2025 campaign. Since then, the seven-year-old has performed admirably without winning against the high graded opposition contested in Selangor and despite a couple of unsuccessful visits to Ipoh recently, the Delago Deluxe gelding may find his niche back in Class 4. His former stable mate, WHO LOVE TO DANCE is coming off a recent 2nd here two starts back will be looking to break his Malaysian duck. The locally trained BRANDENBURG is racing well since joining the Khor Peng Hwa stable chalking up a 5.25L win over this track and journey on December 28 prior to his last start defeat.

Tarry, Zackey to dominate Turffontein card

January 30, 2026

Sean Tarry and Craig Zackey look primed to run the numbers again when Turffontein’s Standside track hosts a competitive nine-race programme on Sunday, 1 February – and from a betting perspective, the pair are hard to oppose for multiple strikes. Fresh off combining to land last Tuesday’s Vaal Classic opener, Tarry can set the tone early in Race 1 over 1160m with Trail Runner, a filly whose form stands out on this card. The lightly raced daughter of Lancaster Bomber has finished second twice in her last three starts, including a bold runners-up effort over course and distance against the boys five weeks ago. Blinkers went on that day and are retained, while the winner has since franked the form by running a close third on handicap debut behind a smart three-year-old. That line is the strongest on offer, and Trail Runner looks ideally placed to finally shed her maiden tag under Keagan de Melo. A similar profile applies to Space Mission in Race 2 over 1160m. Well-related and consistent without winning, the Willow Magic gelding drops back sharply in trip after competing up to 1700m. First-time blinkers could be the catalyst, and with Zackey back aboard, this looks a calculated move by Tarry to strike while the conditions suit. Zackey’s dominance in the saddle remains a major storyline. His two-winner haul at the last midweek Highveld meeting pushed his season tally to an imposing 137, opening up a healthy 29-win gap over Richard Fourie (108). That buffer could grow further courtesy of Paris Fun in Race 7 over 1600m for Tony Peter. The improving Futura filly caught the eye when charging home for second under 61kg on her return from a three-month break. She was beaten just 0.50 lengths over 1400m and now steps up in trip with fitness assured, an unchanged mark, and a much friendlier 57.5kg on her back – all strong positives. The Tarry-Zackey combination resurfaces in the Race 9 finale with progressive Tintin, whose wide-margin last-start victory over dual subsequent winner Quickfreeze marked him as a horse on the up. That said, this is no gimme. Class-dropper Chieftain’s Shield brings stronger exposed form into the 1400m contest, suggesting a straight win bet may be risky. The value play looks to be boxed Swinger and Exacta bets, covering the obvious pair in what should be a competitive closer. Clive Robinson

See It Again can do it again

January 30, 2026

Form Sheets For Singapore Customers

Japan Express Form (Funabashi) – Monday, February 9

February 7, 2026

France Express Form & Race Previews (Pau) – Sunday, February 8

February 7, 2026

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RACE 1: BENJI STAKES (FIBRESAND TRACK) (FROM PAU RACE 1) – 2000M – TIME: 19:29 PRIZE MONEY: EUR16000 Kodyac (FR) Good third in a Condition over 2000m at Pau on 13 January. Can make a bold winning stance. Basheq (FR) Forgivable eighth in a Condition over 1800m at La Teste-Bassin Arcachon on 2 April. Returns after a rest and will be a firecracker . Agandjir (FR) Solid debut finishing second in a Condition over 1600m at Pau on 10 December . Big each way chance. Hm Al Arabi (FR) Credible debut into fourth in a Condition over 1600m at Pau on 10 December . Place chance. RACE 2: BLD PYRENEES HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) (FROM PAU RACE 5) – 2000M – TIME: 21:50 PRIZE MONEY: EUR15400 Lily Ofthe Kingdon (FR) Supplemented Lily OfThe Kingdon finished second in a Class 4 Handicap over 1600m at Pau on 28 January. Well entered and can win. By The Way (FR) Can put a line through when running twelve in a Class 4 Handicap over 2000m at Pornichet on 24 January. Well experienced and can be lethal. Cocoa (FR) A firm winner in a Class 4 Handicap over 2400m at Pau on 16 January. Can follow up on form. Qudillero (FR) Smart second in a Class 4 Handicap over 2000m at Pau on 9 January. Solid each way chance own that evidence. RACE 3: BORDERES HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) (FROM PAU RACE 7) – 2000M – TIME: 23:10 PRIZE MONEY: EUR18200 Jarki (FR) Encouraging second in a Class 4 Condition over 2000m at Pau on 23 January. Strong winning chance. Eye Of The Tiger (FR) Good third in a Class 4 Condition over 2000m at Pau on 23 January. Good each way chance. Lucky D’id (FR) Hearty fourth in a Class 4 Condition over 2000m at Pau on 23 January. Solid place chance. Agamemnon (FR) A winner in a Class 4 Handicap over 2000m at Pau on 18 January. Can continue his positive trend here. RACE 4: BUROS HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) (FROM PAU RACE 10) – 2000M – TIME: 00:57 PRIZE MONEY: EUR22100 Goldensim (FR) Solid second in a Class 3 Handicap over 1600m at Pau on 28 January. Massive winning chance here. El Torero (FR) Promising third in a Class 3 Condition over 2000m at Pau on 20 January. Must have a threatening chance. Chateau Esquiule (FR) Pleasant fifth in a Class 3 Handicap over 2400m at Pau on 20 January. In with a big chance and must be considered. Uppercut (FR) Good third in a Class 3 Handicap over 1600m at Pau on 28 January. Can punch up a bold effort.

South Africa Express Form & Race Previews (Turffontein) – February 8

February 7, 2026

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RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: SCOTTSVILLE@2026.02.08

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 1, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R140,000, 11:35GMT+2

Race Summary: GREEN ENERGY was good on debut and with natural progression, should win. In saying that, plenty of cheek can be expected from the raiding runner, BUFFALO KING CODY He nearly won last time and will be a huge danger here. DOG SOLDIER and BON APPETITE could run well on debut – watch the betting trends as race time looms.

Selections: #1 GREEN ENERGY, #6 BUFFALO KING CODY, #2 DOG SOLDIER, #3 BON APPETITE

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 2, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R125,000, 12:05GMT+2

Race Summary: JAPURA is improving with racing and posting promising performances. She looks hard to beat. AMC ROY’S FANTASY improved at the second time of asking and can go very close to getting it all right. MEKONG and FORCE OF AIR could place on debut.

Selections: #6 JAPURA, #3 AMC ROY’S FANTASY, #8 MEKONG, #7 FORCE OF AIR

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 3, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R120,000, 12:40GMT+2

Race Summary: SOVEREIGN GEM is showing signs of wanting to win. She is lightly raced, her last run excellent and is therefore the first choice. TIPPERARY is taking time to win but is doing well and can be given serious each way claims. I just believe that Sovereign Gem might have more to offer in the improvement department. HEY DIDDLE DIDDLE ran an improved race last time and surely has more to come – strong place chance. BELLIGERENT can be forgiven for the last run – quartet chance.

Selections: #2 SOVEREIGN GEM, #3 TIPPERARY, #5 HEY DIDDLE DIDDLE, #8 BELLIGERENT

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 4, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R100,000, 13:15GMT+2

Race Summary: PEACH MELBA has run two fair races thus far and now gets the services of the Whitehead yard regular rider, Calvin Habib. PAST IS PROLOGUE caught the eye in the second run and should go very close to winning. An obvious inclusion for all bets. LUTHANDO can improve on the debut run and could be the value for the places. SIYABAMBELELA is one for the shortlist – first four claims.

Selections: #9 PEACH MELBA, #8 PAST IS PROLOGUE, #12 LUTHANDO, #14 SIYABAMBELELA

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 5, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R90,000, 13:50GMT+2

Race Summary: ETZEBETH caught the eye on debut and faces a very weak field today and from gate 1 over the extra distance, should be hard to oppose. OWNER OF CREATION is well tried but will not get much more of an easier opportunity at getting it all right and has obvious serious winning claims. QUINCY TIME has a huge place chance and TASTE THE RAINBOW could be the value for the quartet play.

Selections: #1 ETZEBETH, #8 OWNER OF CREATION, #9 QUINCY TOWN, #2 TASTE THE RAINBOW

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 6, Gallops, 1750m, Turf, R150,000, 14:25GMT+2

Race Summary: SALANI KAHLE has won both his maiden and post maiden races in the manner of a very progressive and talented horse. Despite the deep draw, he should reel off the hat trick. BRUH has ability and solid form – each way chance. GOTTA GO EDDIE and ROYAL SWORD are natural inclusions for trifectas and quartets.

Selections: #9 SALANI KAHLE, #6 BRUH, #2 GOTTA GO EDDIE, #3 ROYAL SWORD

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 7, Gallops, 1750m, Turf, R125,000, 15:00GMT+2

Race Summary: FRENCH TRIP ran an absolute cracker in the Michael Roberts Stakes and on that run alone, is the firm first suggestion. He gets the ace gate so should have a smooth run in transit and the weight off will again be a help. The one to beat. CONTINENTALEXPRESS won well last time and it would be no shock if he were to follow up – bright chance. ACTOR has a place chance and if THE MIKADO does not need the run, could finish in the first four.

Selections: #1 FRENCH TRIP, #3 CONTINENTALEXPRESS, #5 ACTOR, #4 THE MIKADO

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 8, Gallops, 1950m, Turf, R200,000, 15:35GMT+2

Race Summary: DOWN BY THE RIVER put the Michael Roberts Stakes to bed with consummate ease and is confidently selected to follow up. KING PELLES needs absolutely no introduction, we know he is good and it would be silly to ignore his chances – strong win chance. Ignore the last run. AMOR FATI showed guts and determination when winning on the Highveld last time and will be a serious runner here. ISIVIVANE bounced back to winning ways last time and should be right there at the finish. Big runner.

Selections: #2 DOWN BY THE RIVER, #1 KING PELLES, #3 AMOR FATI, #4 ISIVIVANE

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 9, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R80,000, 16:15GMT+2

Race Summary: DAWN SURPRISE is in healthy red-hot form currently and showed guts and determination to win last time. She can follow up. DAISY ROCKER is the interesting runner – she could be absolutely anything – watch and include. LITTLEBLACKGEM is taking time for the next win but is ultra-consistent and a must for everything – big chance. RUBY CLAIRE could represent some place value.

Selections: #9 DAWN SURPRISE, #1 DAISY ROCKER, #4 LITTLEBLACKGEM, #6 RUBY CLAIRE

HOLLYWOODBETS SCOTTSVILLE, 08.02.2026, Race 10, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R110,000, 16:50GMT+2

Race Summary: FASCINATION has solid form and is way better than her last run. SCARLET STARLET was impressive on debut and could be anything and might well remain unbeaten after this race. Serious claims. MOSCOW MISS is never far adrift the winners and can give a good account of herself. TLADI MOTHWANA looks useful and has a bright chance. Include in all bets.

Selections: #8 FASCINATION, #11 SCARLET STARLET, #10 MOSCOW MISS, #12 TLADI MOTHWANA

Best Win: #1 ETZEBETH

Best Value Bet: #10 MOSCOW MISS

Best Longshot: #10 MOSCOW MISS

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