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South African Racing Moves Towards Greater National Uniformity

September 22, 2026

Arc Countdown Gathers Pace As Daryz Heads Paris Showdown

September 22, 2026

Europe’s finest middle-distance horses are preparing to descend on ParisLongchamp for the Group 1 Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (2400m) on Sunday, October 4. With less than two weeks remaining, the field is beginning to take shape following the completion of the major trials in France, Britain and Ireland. Defending champion Daryz remains the horse they all have to beat after strengthening his position at the head of the market with an authoritative victory in the Group 2 Prix Foy (2400m). Last year’s Arc winner returned to ParisLongchamp following a disappointing performance behind Ombudsman in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot. Back on familiar ground, Daryz looked far more comfortable. Mickael Barzalona settled the four-year-old behind the leader before moving smoothly into contention and taking control inside the final stages. The victory continued his unbeaten record in France this season, following earlier successes in the Prix Ganay and Prix Aga Khan IV. His defeat at Ascot remains the one significant blemish on his campaign, but proven ability over the Arc course and distance is difficult to overlook. Attempting to win Europe’s greatest race in successive years presents another challenge, but Daryz will return to ParisLongchamp as the horse carrying the strongest credentials. Britain’s most prominent three-year-old contender is likely to be Maltese Cross, who has continued to progress since finishing second behind Christmas Day in the Epsom Derby. The William Haggas-trained colt subsequently captured the Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris (2400m) at ParisLongchamp before confirming his improvement in the Group 2 Great Voltigeur Stakes (2400m) at York.

Connections resisted the temptation to stretch him out over the longer distance of the St Leger Stakes, instead keeping the Arc as his primary objective. That decision could prove significant. Maltese Cross has already demonstrated that he handles ParisLongchamp and possesses the stamina required for 2400 metres. As a three-year-old, he will also receive weight from the older horses. His lack of experience against established older champions is the obvious question, but his progressive profile makes him one of the most dangerous runners in the field. Few horses have assembled a stronger body of form this season than Kalpana. Andrew Balding’s mare defeated Calandagan in the Group 1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2400m) at Ascot before adding the Group 1 Yorkshire Oaks (2400m) at York. Her Yorkshire Oaks victory was far less comfortable, with outsider Sparan Nua reducing the margin to a short head. However, the race developed unusually after a runaway leader opened a substantial advantage. Kalpana was forced to begin her challenge earlier than ideal and was left vulnerable inside the closing stages.

She nevertheless found enough to hold on and secure another Group 1 success. A previous attempt at the Arc ended with Kalpana finishing seventh after being dealt a difficult wide barrier. She returns as a stronger and more accomplished mare, with victories over some of Europe’s best middle-distance horses. Her ability to handle rain-affected ground could also prove valuable if Paris receives its traditional autumn weather. The three-year-old fillies receive an important weight allowance in the Arc, bringing Thundering On firmly into contention. Joseph O’Brien’s filly produced one of the standout performances of the British Classic season when powering clear in the Group 1 Oaks (2400m) at Epsom. She subsequently disappointed when fourth in the Pretty Polly Stakes, but it was later reported that she had been coughing after the race. Following a short break, Thundering On returned to winning form in the Group 2 Blandford Stakes (2000m) at the Curragh on September 13. That victory demonstrated her wellbeing, although she will now be asked to step back up to 2400 metres against a significantly stronger field. Her Epsom performance showed that she possesses both the stamina and acceleration required for the Arc. The question is whether she can reproduce that form against older horses on one of racing’s biggest stages. The French three-year-old challenge gained further strength when Varandir captured the Group 2 Prix Niel (2400m) on Arc Trials Day. The Aga Khan-owned colt came from off a strong pace to defeat Alam by a length and a quarter, earning an automatic place in the Arc. The Prix Niel has traditionally been one of the major trials for three-year-olds, although its recent record of producing the Arc winner has been mixed. Varandir must improve again to trouble the leading contenders, but he will arrive as a progressive colt with winning form over the course and distance. Those qualities make him difficult to dismiss, particularly if the ground becomes testing. Another major development from Arc Trials Day was the performance of Friendly Soul in the Group 1 Prix Vermeille (2400m). James Doyle controlled the race from the front before the John and Thady Gosden-trained mare held off Pink Panthera in a new race-record time. The victory answered previous questions about her ability to stay 2400 metres and secured the second Group 1 success of her career.

Friendly Soul winning the Prix Vermeille (Pic: PA Media)

Connections paid a substantial supplementary fee to contest the Prix Vermeille and were rewarded with an automatic Arc invitation. Whether Friendly Soul takes her place remains subject to final confirmation, but her ability to race prominently could make her particularly dangerous if the Arc develops into a tactical contest. Aidan O’Brien’s Arc team remains one of the biggest uncertainties heading towards final declarations. Constitution River looked like a leading contender after winning the Prix du Jockey Club and Eclipse Stakes, but his subsequent performances have raised questions. He was beaten at York before finishing third as the favourite in the Irish Champion Stakes, weakening late after racing prominently. O’Brien later revealed that a low-grade infection had affected horses across the Ballydoyle stable for several weeks. That creates further uncertainty over which runners will travel to Paris and whether they can reproduce their best form. Last year’s Arc runner-up Minnie Hauk also remains in contention. She was denied by only a head by Daryz in the 2025 Arc but has struggled to rediscover that level this season. A return to 2400 metres should suit, although she must improve considerably on her recent performances. Unbeaten filly Diamond Necklace is another fascinating possibility following her impressive victory in the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood. Her acceleration is unquestioned, but she has yet to race over 2400 metres. Connections must decide whether to test her stamina in the Arc or remain at shorter distances. The final field will not become clear until connections confirm their plans and the supplementary-entry stage is completed. The barrier draw and weather forecast will also have a significant influence on the market. A wide starting position can be costly at ParisLongchamp, while soft or heavy ground would bring proven stayers into contention and potentially complicate the challenge of any international runners. For now, Daryz remains the standard bearer after delivering exactly what was required in the Prix Foy. Maltese Cross brings a progressive three-year-old profile, Kalpana owns some of the strongest Group 1 form in the field and Thundering On will receive a valuable weight allowance. Meanwhile, Varandir and Friendly Soul emerged from Arc Trials Day as genuine contenders. Plenty can still change before October 4, but the defending champion has already issued the clearest warning. The road to Paris once again runs through Daryz. By Scott Bailey

Trainer Vaughan Marshall runs CAPTAINS ALLIANCE in Race 7 – the RACE COAST INCENTIVES POWERED BY Hollywoodbets CLASS 4 at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Wednesday 23 September 2026.

Overdue Captains Alliance should be set

September 22, 2026

Somehow, Captains Alliance is a one-time winner, despite teasing his connections that another victory is around the corner. He has kept them waiting since June 2025, but every other factor favours him in race 7 over 1600m at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Wednesday. His consistency and near misses make it difficult for the handicapper to drop his rating. He has finished second in his last two starts and meets both horses who beat him. He was 0,5 lengths behind Bourbon King over this course and distance and is now 2kg better off. He was also 1,75 lengths behind Diamond Rock last time and is 2,5kg better off. He beat Yamazaki and Captain’s Ransom in both races. Sean Veale rides for Vaughan Marshall, with both jockey and trainer among the recent winners. Signor Dante deserves respect on foreign form. James Crawford returns with runners for the first time since 22 August, and Signor Dante has shown solid form. He finished third behind subsequent winner Miami Summer last time, with Callan Murray aboard. Bourbon King and Diamond Rock are place-money contenders, but both may need Captains Alliance to underperform. Captain’s Elect could prove hard to beat in race 1 over 1250m. Drawn No 1, she has Muzi Yeni aboard for Andre Nel. After a fair debut fifth behind World Of Secrets, she improved to finish second, 1,5 lengths behind Red Flag over 1200m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. African Kingfisher, racing in race 2 over 1250m, comes from the Red Flag formline after finishing fifth on debut. Trainer Justin Snaith has spoken positively about the imported daughter of Kingman, and she has scope for improvement. Keagan de Melo rides. Race 3 looks stronger. Gimmethejackhammer showed plenty on debut when fifth behind Ulez Camera despite racing without cover from draw No 10. He should improve with experience and could pay to follow. Time Of Our Lives, drawn No 11, has finished second in both starts and is the main danger. Big City Roller has also finished second twice and gets another chance in race 4 over 1250m. His turn of foot is encouraging, although inexperience may have cost him. Craig Zackey rides for Dean Kannemeyer. Final Call, partnered by apprentice Sifiso Bungane in race 5, appears to have found consistency and faces a relatively shallow field. Boozy Suzie returns in race 6 over 1600m after winning over the same course and distance last time. She beat Amayah by a length and is now 1,5kg worse off, but may have won more comfortably than the margin suggests. Veale rides. In race 8, Balzi Rossi looks overdue after showing renewed form. He has won only once in 15 starts but has hinted that another victory is close. Kabelo Matsunyane rides for Marshall. Scottish Links, Prince Of Tibet, Devil A Saint, Meet The King and Havoc also warrant respect.

Trio Hold The Keys To Vaal Victories

September 21, 2026

Bettors looking for an edge to the Tuesday 22 September nine-race Vaal meeting could do worse than keeping three jockeys firmly on the shortlist. Muzi Yeni, Kabelo Matsunyane and Gavin Lerena each have realistic opportunities to land doubles, and their mounts could prove pivotal to the day’s betting permutations. Yeni could strike first aboard Fanie Bronkhorst-trained Piteraq in Race 2 over 1200m. The four-year-old daughter of Hawwaam made an encouraging Highveld debut over 1000m, finishing strongly in her first start since relocating from James Crawford’s Cape Town base. The extra 200m looks well within her compass, and even modest improvement should put her firmly into the winning picture. She is taken to open her account and get Yeni’s day off to a flying start. Matsunyane could strike back in the next race aboard Tony Peter-trained Winter Rainfall over 1400m. The daughter of What A Winter has made two respectable appearances for the yard since leaving Candice Bass’ KZN satellite stable in mid-May. Her latest fourth in a minor feature over 1200m was more than respectable, and she now returns to peak fitness off a reduced mark. That makes the six-year-old mare the value play in a race where Matsunyane could make an early move. Yeni, though, has another strong chance in Race 4 when he partners three-year-old Be The One for Paul Matchett over 1600m. There is little convincing form to recommend in this maiden event, but the daughter of Futura brings a solid recent effort to the table after finishing second over 1450m on the Turffontein Inside track. The additional 150m in the opening leg of the Pick 6 should present no obstacle and Be The One does not need to improve to go one better. A double for Yeni looks firmly on the cards. Lerena’s first blow could come in Race 5 aboard One Eye On Dubai, a three-year-old Almanzor colt trained by Mike and Mathew de Kock. He confirmed the promise of his 1200m debut fourth by finishing second over 1700m at this venue just 12 days ago. The further 300m should bring another step forward, and with Lerena in the saddle, One Eye On Dubai has all the ingredients to go one better. Matsunyane’s second opportunity comes in Race 6 on Bellerophon, and this impressive last-start winner looks a compelling follow-up candidate over 2800m. The four-year-old Vercingetorix gelding was authoritative under 61kg last time and now carries just 51kg despite a five-point rise in the ratings. That looks unlikely to stop his momentum, particularly as he is unbeaten over this course and distance. Matsunyane could have another winner in the book. Lerena rounds off his strongest claims in Race 8 aboard Tony Peter-trained Vibe SA over 1200m. The six-year-old son of Just As Well boasts an appealing record over this course and distance, with two wins and two placings from five starts. He has maintained his consistency since scoring over 1160m on Turffontein’s Standside track four starts ago and remains capable of running a big race off his current mark. Clive Robinson

G3 Celebration Cup beckons for Invincible Ibis and Helios Express

September 18, 2026

Mark Newnham was pleased with the effort of his 2026 Hong Kong Derby (2000m) hero Invincible Ibis, as the gelding enjoyed a tune-up on Thursday morning (17 September) ahead of his highly anticipated return to action in 10 days. With Luke Ferraris deputising for the sidelined Hugh Bowman, Invincible Ibis eased through his 1200-metre dirt trial fifth in 1m 10.69s under hands and heels. “He’s only out there to stretch his legs and take some fitness from it,” Newnham said. “Comparable to his all-weather trials previously, it was quite a good standard. “He’ll have probably just one more gallop going into the Celebration Cup.” Newnham earmarked the G3 Celebration Cup Handicap (1400m) at Sha Tin on 27 September as the ideal reintroduction for his five-year-old galloper, who won five of his nine outings last season, culminating in his record-breaking win in the Hong Kong Derby. The first two of his wins came on Sha Tin’s 1400-metre course. Newnham believes Invincible Ibis has come on during the off-season break. “I think he’s strengthened up; he’s certainly put on a little bit more weight,” Newnham said. “He’s a more mature horse mentally and physically. He needs to be now that he’s racing all ages and his rating is high. There’s nowhere to hide,” he added.

In the same barrier trial was John Size’s leading sprinter Helios Express, who completed 1200 metres in a typically leisurely 1m 11.20s under Andrea Atzeni.

The Australian handler revealed that the seven-year-old is also due to make his seasonal bow in the Celebration Cup over the 1400 metres, a journey where he’s posted two seconds and a third from three career outings. “He’s not a flash worker, he doesn’t do anything that’s impressive at home. He’s just about race day,” Size said. “Hopefully, he’s fit enough to run a good race on the 27th.” The Toronado gelding has long been considered one of Hong Kong’s leading sprinters. Given that Helios Express is consistently rated above 120, is Size frustrated that, having repeatedly gone up against the colossal Ka Ying Rising, his charge doesn’t have more to show at the top level than a single G3 Sha Tin Vase Handicap (1200m) title? “Someone’s got to do it,” Size said. “He’s not the first one who’s run into a champion, and is frustrated by it. That’s what we’ve been dealt, we just have to live with it.” Answering speculation that Helios Express could be campaigned overseas in an effort to claim Group 1 glory, Size was non-committal. “Anything can happen. You never say never, and you never know what circumstances arise. He’s got the marks to do that,” Size said. “But he’s probably not the first horse I’d pick to be put on a plane.” David Eustace’s progressive five-year-old Colourful King also trialled on Thursday. After completing 1050 metres on the dirt track in 1m 02.29s under Zac Purton, his English handler said: “He’s going great. He’s prepared really nicely and we’ll go to the Group 3 (National Day Cup Handicap, 1000m) on the 1st of October.” By Paul Ryding

Laxon Ready to Go Wire to Wire

September 18, 2026

Exocet eyeing second-up win at Scottsville

September 18, 2026

Monday’s meeting at Hollywoodbets Scottsville is expected to be run on soft going and, as the final meeting before the course’s annual spring treatment, could favour horses that handle the mud. However, conditions may change before race day. The main attraction is Mike and Mathew de Kock’s Exocet in the eighth and final race. Returning from a long break, he showed plenty of pace before tiring late and finishing fourth. That run should have brought him on, and his class could see him prevail unless the going becomes extremely testing. Licence To Thrill and Donquerari are likely dangers, while Mystical Miss could also feature with a light weight despite her wide draw. The B Stakes over 1600m looks competitive. Queue Wing could be suited by a 2.5kg apprentice claim, while Down By The River has strong course-and-distance form. Pinot Grigio makes his local debut after a break, while top-weight Landoftherisingsun remains consistent and comes from a stable in good form. The opening races feature many first-timers, making the betting worth watching. One Pepper, AMC Roy On Fire, Sensei Of Spin and Escape Velocity are among those to consider. In the first leg of the PA, One Flight, Fleur Delacour, Nothing Cooler and first-timer Celeritas could attract support. Joy N Hope looks suited to the longer trip in the Pick 6 opener, while Clever Kid, United Tides and Wo Zai are others to consider. In the fourth, Sparrow Man looks progressive after winning over a mile first time out and could follow up. War Reporter and The Marquee are the main dangers. The seventh is wide open, but French War Lord could follow up after a strong maiden win. Lunch Money, Connoisseur and One Irish Rover are also capable of making their presence felt. In the sprint, Eric’s Legacy will bid to follow up his course-and-distance win, but Fire Chief is better off at the weights and could keep him honest. Into Red Space is another to watch, while Yannakis cannot be dismissed despite a six-point handicap rise.

‘Big three’ target Turffontein success

September 18, 2026

Punters looking for an edge at Turffontein’s Inside track on Saturday should keep three of the country’s leading riders firmly on the shortlist, with Keagan de Melo, visiting Cape-based star Richard Fourie and Gavin Lerena all holding strong hands on a nine-race Highveld programme. De Melo should get the meeting off to a winning start aboard Tenareef in Race 1 over 1200m. The Johan Janse van Vuuren-trained filly has been costly to follow in her three starts, all under De Melo, but the daughter of Rafeef would not be winning out of turn if she finds even the slightest improvement. She attracted market support when fourth on debut, then confirmed that promise with another close-up effort over the same trip at Hollywoodbets Greyville. Her final juvenile appearance came at the Vaal Classic track, where she started odds-on but failed to deliver. Now a three-year-old, she need not improve much on that effort to get punters off to a profitable start. Fourie makes the trip north for a seven-ride book and Jimmy Vega looks his best opportunity to strike early in Race 3 over 1450m. Joe Soma’s three-year-old son of Malmoos has placed in all four starts but has twice disappointed as a short-priced favourite, including his latest effort over this course and distance. A subsequent gelding operation could prove the catalyst. If it has brought about the expected improvement, Jimmy Vega has the class to finally break through. Fourie could then double up aboard Empress Of Peace in Race 4, also over 1450m. Tyrone Zackey’s Declarationofpeace filly has finished in the frame in eight of her 10 starts and was a close-up third over this course and distance a fortnight ago. Unexposed rivals Scented Alley and Storm Avalanche may have greater scope for improvement, but Empress Of Peace brings the one thing punters can never buy – hard-earned experience. That reliability makes her a serious inclusion. De Melo has another compelling chance in Race 5 with Periodic Table. The Van Vuuren-trained son of Danon Platina opened his account in emphatic fashion over this trip at the Vaal earlier this month and appears to have been treated generously with an opening handicap mark. Still lightly raced and now only six starts into his career, the four-year-old gelding has scope to improve again. Bottom-weight of 54kg only strengthens the appeal. He looks one of the day’s more interesting betting propositions. Lerena’s strongest opportunities arrive later, beginning with King’s Express for Fabian Habib in Race 6 over 1800m. The seven-year-old veteran was beaten 5.60 lengths by Palace Prince over this distance on the Standside track last month, but the revised terms give him 4kg back and, more importantly, he returns to a course where he has already won three times over the trip. That Inside-track record should not be dismissed lightly. A repeat of his best form would put him firmly in the picture. Lerena and Habib could then complete a double with the progressive Aint No Doubt in Race 7 over 1800m. The Elusive Fort gelding has finished runner-up in both starts since being gelded, most recently over 1500m at this venue. That latest effort suggested he is crying out for more ground, and the step up to 1800m could bring the improvement needed to go one better. Clive Robinson

Varian dreaming of Arc glory with improving Saddadd

September 17, 2026

Master Du Rouvray is still on the up

September 17, 2026

Winning three races on the bounce is difficult enough, but four with the handicapper on your tail is even harder. Mark Dixon’s Master Du Rouvray has risen to the challenge each time and can take another step forward in the Middle Stakes at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday evening. He switches from Scottsville but appears a late-maturing gelding who is finally finding his way. However, victory is no certainty. Uzwano franked the form by winning next time out and now meets Master Du Rouvray at level weights, while Mohave Prince has beaten Uzwano twice recently and has the best of the draw. Tunguska and Cleartherunway have handy weights and both have strong chances. The betting could prove the best guide. Heavy rain forecast for the weekend could also result in the meeting switching from turf to the poly track. United Tides, in the opener, has improved with every start and was running on late over a mile last time. A claiming apprentice should help. Trip To Venus tries 2000m for the first time, while Judiciary could improve over the longer trip despite Keagan de Melo opting for Yogas Govender’s runner. Predator’s Crown has been consistent in four starts and was close-up over this distance last time, although the widest draw is a concern. Yeah Baby’s poor turf debut can be ignored after two promising poly runs. Sean Tarry’s first-timer Pandora Fort could attract market support, while Blazing Belle should appreciate the extra distance. The Pick 6 opener is a competitive apprentice handicap. War Emperor has been consistent since winning his maiden and gets a claiming apprentice. He can reverse form with Danube, who beat him last time but is only 2.5kg better off. Fort Usher and The Nile Boss, who carries just 48kg, are also serious contenders. Quest Of Valour has a light weight and could go close in the fourth. War Reporter arrives in good form from the Highveld with De Melo aboard, while recent maiden winner Prized Possession and Dricus, who is well drawn, cannot be ignored. Beyond All Doubt has shown promise against stronger opposition despite a wide draw and big weight. Bangkok Magic steps up in trip and will be a major threat if handling turf. Blue Steel has the best draw, while Run Forest Run faces a four-point handicap rise after his latest win. Greek Heritage, a smart second-start winner, returns from a four-month break in the sixth and steps up to a mile. Silver Salute and Pretty Kara, who gets first-time cheekpieces, should challenge, while Arctic Fury could surprise with only 48kg. In the last, Hurricane Flight’s recent win will attract attention, but she received a hefty 10-point handicap rise. Zena Rose, the previous favourite, could be better suited with a non-claiming apprentice. Splash Of Love and Heavenly Mafia have similar records, but Glen Kotzen’s Heavenly Mafia may be the pick over the longer trip.

Vaal victories beckon for dominant duo

September 16, 2026

Punters looking for a profitable afternoon at the Vaal on Thursday 17 September should keep Philasande Mxoli and Calvin Habib firmly on their side. Both riders endured frustrating afternoons at the same venue last Thursday, but the nine-race programme offers ample opportunity for redemption. Between them, they hold the key to several of the day’s most appealing betting propositions. Mxoli was agonisingly close to a winner last Thursday, with his six rides producing three seconds, a third and a fourth. He returns with seven mounts and looks capable of turning those near misses into winners. His best chance comes aboard the rapidly progressive Mission To Mars for Stuart Pettigrew in Race 6 over 2000m. Mxoli has partnered the Northern Hemisphere-bred son of Sea The Stars in all three starts and has seen him improve dramatically with each outing. A fast-finishing second over 1500m on debut was followed by a spectacular 1600m maiden victory, when Mission To Mars powered clear to score by more than 10 lengths. He then confirmed that promise by landing a handicap over this trip in his latest start, off an opening mark of 86. An eight-point penalty is the obvious concern, but the manner of that victory suggests there is plenty more to come. Mission To Mars is taken to complete the hat-trick. Mxoli’s other major betting opportunity comes in Race 9, the Pinnacle Stakes over 1000m, where he partners Karate Kid. The consistent speedster was a creditable third under 60kg in the Listed Spring Spree Stakes over 1200m last time, but his record tells the more important story: four of his five career victories have come over 1000m. Back over the shorter trip, reunited with Mxoli and carrying just 54kg, Karate Kid has conditions in his favour. In a competitive contest, he looks an appealing eachway proposition. Habib, meanwhile, has several opportunities to erase last week’s blank. Polly Plummer could get him off the mark in Race 2 over 1200m. The Erik The Red filly showed enough in three juvenile appearances last season, all under Habib, to suggest she can make a winning three-year-old debut. She finished second over this course and distance first time out and need only reproduce that form to break her maiden. Habib then switches to Redlightgreenlight for Tony Peter in Race 4 over 1600m. The runner arrives with highly relevant form, having won a similar contest over this course and distance last month. A two-time winner over the track and trip, Redlightgreenlight can again have the measure of familiar rival Unsolved Riddle despite conceding a 2kg swing in the weights. Habib’s third standout ride is Cartagena in Race 5 over 2400m. The Heather Adamson-trained mare has won twice and placed twice from five attempts over this course and distance. One of the joint best-weighted runners, she has a strong opportunity to turn her course familiarity into another victory. Clive Robinson

Exciting Le Zonda chases hat-trick in Class 2 feature at Happy...

September 15, 2026

Le Zonda (117lb) made a big impression near the end of last season, and Pierre Ng’s exciting Irish import makes his reappearance on Wednesday (16 September) in a high-quality HK$3.12 million Class 2 Shek O Handicap (1650m) at Happy Valley.

After soaring from last-to-first in both June and July, Le Zonda resumes bidding for a hat-trick tomorrow night under Vincent Ho, who last week slotted a treble and hopes there is plenty more to come from the four-year-old gelding this campaign.

Ho said: “He’s a quality horse. Hopefully, he keeps improving this season and we can get into some Group races. I have to sweat a lot, but it’s worth doing (the weight) for him.”

Assigned barrier four, Le Zonda faces Speed Dragon (135lb), Massive Sovereign (132lb), Sagacious Life (132lb), Helene Feeling (129lb), Huge Wave (129lb), Packing Angel (127lb), Silvery Breeze (127lb), Max Que (125lb), Californiatotality (123lb), Awesome Fluke (121lb) and Armor Golden Eagle (117lb).

“I was confident he could win again last season and, of course, with the handicap it helps him. Hopefully, his form is there and he should perform really well,” Ho said.

Formerly with Ger Lyons, Le Zonda won pre-import at the Curragh and Naas when he was known as Beckman. He has scored two wins in Hong Kong from eight starts, both times by making significant ground over 1800m at Happy Valley.

“He doesn’t need to settle that far back or last. We don’t have to be as far from a decent draw because he just needs to relax and switch off; he has a great turn of foot,” Ho said.

2024 Hong Kong Derby (2000m) winner Massive Sovereign and Sagacious Life are the only two horses in the card-closer yet to secure a win at Happy Valley.

Armor Golden Eagle made five starts at Happy Valley last season, winning three times, and links with Andrea Atzeni tomorrow evening.

“He likes the course and I’m looking forward to getting back on him. We always thought he was above average and it was just a matter of time. Physically, he was just a little bit weak and mentally, he was a little immature,” Atzeni said.

“It took time, but we knew the ability was there once he put it together. He showed that last season when he won his first race and it wasn’t a fluke because he’s won two since.”

Rosewood Fleetfoot (123lb) comes back in trip after victories over 2200m when he reunites with Karis Teetan in the Class 4 Big Wave Bay Handicap (1800m).

“He had a nice last season – those two wins were very good. I feel like he built a bit of confidence after his (first) win and it’s going to be interesting now over 1800 (metres).

“He has preferred longer distances, but he is a bit fresh after his holiday. I sat on him yesterday (Monday, 14 September) and he actually felt really nice,” Teetan said.

Dazzling Fit (135lb) makes his Happy Valley debut in the Class 3 Chung Hom Kok Handicap (1650m), after contesting last term’s Four-Year-Old Classic Series.

Trainer David Eustace, who has a win already this season, said: “I was keen to give him a good break after what was a pretty strenuous four-year-old campaign. He’s ‘prepped’ up really smoothly. I just thought as a five-year-old they need to be a bit more versatile and adaptable to tracks.”

Zac Purton partners Dazzling Fit from barrier one on Wednesday. The nine-time champion jockey was aboard Jimmy Ting’s Group 3 winner Little Paradise, who trialled on the dirt at Sha Tin this morning (Tuesday, 15 September) in 1m 11.21s over 1200m.

Wednesday’s (16 September) eight-race fixture at Happy Valley begins at 7.10pm with the Class 5 Hoi Mei Handicap (1000m).

By Declan Schuster

Pigeon can swoop on males

September 15, 2026

There should be no fear in backing a filly against male opposition when the conditions favour her. Race 8 over 1000m at Hollywoodbets Durbanville is a Middle Stakes where fillies receive a 2,5kg concession, specifically designed to encourage them to take on males. Pink Pigeon is well placed to claim an overdue victory. She has not won since January but has gone close in six subsequent starts, finishing second in her last three. She was beaten by Berry’s Boogie over 1200m, then by 1,5 lengths at Fairview by Song Of Myself. Her latest effort is particularly encouraging, finishing just 0,3 lengths behind Oliver over 1000m. Oliver franked that form by becoming an unlucky loser last week. Pink Pigeon also finished ahead of All About Al, Flying Finley, Magical Place and Un Bel Di despite those rivals being better off at the weights. Keagan de Melo takes the ride, a significant boost for Justin Snaith. Dreamworld is the main danger. Highly regarded as a two-year-old before injury interrupted his progress, he returned after eight months off and later finished third, less than a length behind Sugar Mountain. He should improve with racing and is respected. Nine-year-old All About Al, the last racing progeny of Captain Al, remains remarkably consistent, while Magical Place could finally get the luck he deserves. Made In Chelsea looks well placed to exit the maidens in race 1 over 1000m despite carrying 60,5kg. Returning to a sprint is a positive, and Sean Veale rides for Candice Bass. Final Say drops sharply in class for race 2 over 1600m after contesting the Listed Iridescence Stakes. Richard Fourie rides for Snaith, with stablemate Remuneration the main danger. Catch Me stands out as the best bet in race 3 over 1600m. He has improved with every run and was narrowly beaten by Warrior Of Destiny over this course and distance last time. Further improvement is expected, with JP van der Merwe aboard. Baton Rouge can complete a hat-trick in race 4 over 2000m. His latest win, by two lengths over Balzi Rossi, was particularly impressive. Race 5 over 1400m is open, with Cedar Point preferred over Ferryman, Loving Prague and United Front. Cedar Point had no luck from a wide draw last time and remains capable of further improvement. Ruby Rex gets the vote in race 6 over 1250m. Lightly raced and facing nothing exciting, she can score for Adam Marcus and Kabelo Matsunyane. Gold Dust looks the one to beat in race 7 over 1250m. He has improved since joining Michelle Rix and, from gate No 1 with Sifiso Bungane claiming 2,5kg, has an ideal setup.

The Weekend Wrap Up

September 14, 2026

Massive Sovereign wins the 2024 BMW Hong Kong Derby.

Sha Tin Track Spy: Sunday, 13 September

September 12, 2026

September 12 Selangor Preview By Mark Lydeamore

September 11, 2026

RACE 1 (2 – 5 – 4 – 1) Looks a tough race for punters to kick off proceedings with all nine runners without a win in their past six respective starts. MY DETERMINATION has descended to winnable rating but he can be hard to follow at times. THE WILD CHIEF attracted market support when resuming recently and will be primed third up this preparation. LUCKY FREEDOM was beaten a short head over 1200m three starts back and can break through if he reproduces that form. RACE 2 (6 – 3 – 10 – 1) Another hard race to fathom the form but NAUGHTY KID looks a chance to bounce back. Jockey Jordan Mallyon rode the horse to victory back in April and the pair will be reunited for Saturday’s contest. GOLDEN LIGHTNING can mix his form but was a track/distance winner back in June. GANBATTE has dropped in the ratings and is well served by the 3kg apprentice claim. ROBERTIAN remains a maiden but looks suited dropping back to the “B” division of Class 5. RACE 3 (5 – 7 – 2 – 12) SUN MOON STARS has the best exposed form with two minor placings from as many starts and is a chance to break the egg with Jose De Souza astride. BANKER’S BONUS was slow to begin last start but has been placed on three occasions from five runs and is a definite winning proposition. CAPET CROWN closed off well when finishing 3rd on debut and gains a big weight advantage with 51kg. Former Kiwi galloper, IPOH STAR is a likely improver at start three in the country. GENERAL BARRACK and LUCKY BELLE have shown ability at the trials and should be considered for the exotics. RACE 4 (3 – 1 – 2 – 7) EASTERN BARRACK has won three from six over the 1400m trip and will return to his favourite distance this Saturday. The gelding has been kept up to the mark with a solid trial during the week. PACIFIC ROYAL had no luck over the sprint journey last start and steps up to the 1400m for the first time on the downgrade. WITNESSIMPACT has a good record in Class 4 (2:1-1-0) and has remained competitive in the higher grades recently. WINNING SYMPHONY is aiming for the hat trick and will be freshened up with jockey Joe Kamaruddin looking to maintain his unbeaten record aboard the four-year-old. RACE 5 (11 – 3 – 5 – 1) Despite a solitary win to its credit, Irish-bred gelding PROSPEROUS BABY has been racing well in Class 3 company and looks ideally placed with 54.5kg from the good draw. ARTOIS will be freshened since his unplaced effort in the 4YO Selangor Silver in July and will find Saturday’s assignment much easier. Former Hong Kong galloper YE MAN is yet to deliver in three outings locally and despite going around at prohibitive odds in his past two runs, he should be primed fourth up in the country. CHEVAL PEGASUS broke through in the grade a fortnight ago and tends to retain form. RACE 6 (2 – 8 – 1 – 9) TRIUMPH BANKER’S is in career-best form after completing the hat trick at Ipoh last start where he reeled off the quickest final sectional for the day. Has won two from two over the 1020m and will take beating again. YES BOSS YES is on the seven-day backup following his 3rd placing over 1200m here last Saturday. The four-year-old is a fast beginner and can easily bounce back on the distance drop. FRIGHT is another galloper with an abundance of early pace and was never pressured when leading throughout to win by 3.5L here on August 16. BANKER’S BABY possesses a quick turn of foot and providing she can overcome the wide draw, she can replicate her 1200m win from two weeks ago. RACE 7 (*7 – 6 – 3 – 1) Former Australian WELCOME BANKER’S caught the eye on local debut when resuming from a six-month spell here last Saturday. From the coveted pole position, the gelding should prove hard to beat on the seven-day backup. TO REMEMBER returned to his best form with a fast-finishing 2nd behind the talented TRIUMPH BANKER’S over 1020m last start and should perform well from a short break. Former Australian galloper WAR FINALE has been trialing well against the likes of LUCKY MAGIC recently and is one to watch first-up for the Jason Ong stable. BILLY ELLIOT pulled up lame last start but can improve on the downgrade. RACE 8 (7 – 1 – 11 – 4) BABY TWINS closed off well over the 1150m last start and the booking of jockey CC Wong is a plus also as the gelding seeks to break a seventeen-month winning drought. BOSS BABY started favourite at Ipoh last Sunday and appeared one-paced when placed 5th over the 1200m trip. The gelding drops back to Class 5 for the first time so it may pay to forgive that last start blemish. SIRIUS has been racing consistently and looks well weighted with the 54.5kg while DON’TTELLMYWIFE can quickly atone from a narrow defeat despite coming from the outside barrier. RACE 9 (2 – 5 – 1 – 6) HAPPY WARRIOR appeared plain as a beaten favourite last start but was a 1775m winner prior to that which keeps him under notice. PACIFIC BAOBAO remains a maiden but is on the verge of breaking through after three third placings in succession. The four-year-old closed off well from midfield over the mile here three weeks back and is a chance to deliver a win at start eighteen in the country, WAR CODE received no luck when checked at the start in Ipoh so there were genuine excuses but the gelding did finished runner up over the 1775m trip prior to that. FAMOUS NAME pulled up lame last start and does tend to mix his form. However, he does perform best at this distance range so a vasst improvement is likely.

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