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
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
Six-year-old sprinter LAXON shapes as a leading contender in Sunday’s RM24,000 Class 5A Handicap over 1000m at Ipoh.
A four-time winner from 36 starts, LAXON may not be the most consistent performer, but he is more than capable of dominating a Class 5 field on his day. Two starts ago, the son of Darci Brahma attracted strong late betting support and duly delivered, making every post a winning one to score comfortably by 3.25 lengths over 1100m at this track. Things did not go his way last time out, however, as he was slow to begin and failed to show his customary tactical speed before finishing a modest sixth.
Facing a moderate field this week, LAXON looks capable of securing his fifth career win if he can begin cleanly and adopt his preferred on-speed racing pattern.
Five-year-old galloper MAVERICK appears to have recaptured the form he showed twelve months ago and looks well placed to return to the winner’s list in Sunday’s 1600m Class 5B contest at Ipoh.
Trained by Peter Lee, MAVERICK has not won since recording successive victories in July and August last year, but he has shown marked improvement in recent weeks. The gelding comes into this assignment off three consecutive placings over the mile, the latest coming as a beaten favourite two weeks ago after attempting to lead throughout.
With his natural early speed likely to see him race prominently again, MAVERICK looks capable of securing his fourth win over this track and distance.
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.
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
After securing a maiden top-level success in Germany earlier this month, Roger Varian is relishing a shot at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe with the ever-improving Saddadd.
A winner of five of his 10 starts, the Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum-owned four-year-old has taken the step into deep waters in his stride this term, returning with success in the Gordon Richards Stakes before being placed in the Tattersalls Gold Cup and running with credit in the Coral-Eclipse.
He showed further improvement and produced a career best when upped to a mile and a half for the Grosser Preis von Baden and now will attempt to follow in the footsteps of Danedream (2011) and Torquator Tasso (2021) who both won the Baden-Baden Group One before triumphing in the French capital a month later.
Varian told Racing TV: “Plan A is to run Saddadd in the Arc and we’re looking forward to that and very excited to have the chance to run a horse like him in the race.
“He ticks a lot of boxes. He’s a very strong horse who is still maturing and I think he’s getting better and better. His first run over a mile and a half was a career best and hopefully there is more to explore at that trip and we know he handles autumn ground.
“He’s improved throughout his career and we’ve been careful to mind him along the way and allow him to reach full maturity and therefore his full potential.
“He’s getting there and he’s a lovely horse with a great attitude and he’s come out of the race in Germany in great form. I’m very happy with how he is looking at home and we’re looking forward to having a crack at the Arc.”
By Press Association Sport Reporters
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.
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
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).
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.
History was made on both sides of the world as Sheza Alibi dominated at Flemington before Saffie Osborne broke new ground in the St Leger Stakes at Doncaster.
Across the Irish Sea, Leopardstown produced a major upset in the Irish Champion Stakes, while several of Europe’s brightest stars added further Group 1 success to their records during the opening day of the Irish Champions Festival.
Sheza Alibi Stamps Her Authority At Flemington
Australia may have another genuine superstar after Sheza Alibi produced a commanding victory in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) at Flemington.
Sent out as the $1.60 favourite, the Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman-trained mare travelled comfortably for Luke Nolen before accelerating away from a quality field.
Sheza Alibi crossed the line 2¾ lengths clear of Autumn Boy, with outsider Another Wil holding third.
The four-year-old also became the first female galloper to win the race since it was elevated to Group 1 level in 2013.
It was another significant step forward following her Doncaster Mile success earlier in the year and her first-up second behind Autumn Glow in the Winx Stakes.
Connections must now decide whether to remain on a path towards the Golden Eagle (1500m) at Randwick or consider a tilt at the Cox Plate (2040m), which will be staged at Flemington this year.
Osborne Creates History In St Leger
Saffie Osborne became the first female jockey to win a British Classic after partnering Highwayman to victory in the Group 1 St Leger Stakes (2921m) at Doncaster.
The 24-year-old produced a composed ride aboard the Joseph O’Brien-trained colt, who continued his rapid improvement over longer distances.
Starting at odds of 12.00, Highwayman powered clear in the closing stages to defeat stablemate Enceladus by 2½ lengths, completing a memorable quinella for O’Brien.
The result was particularly significant as it came in the 250th running of the world’s oldest Classic.
Osborne had only secured the ride earlier in the week, but she made the most of the opportunity to register her first Group 1 victory and secure her place in British racing history.
Derby winner and race favourite Christmas Day was unable to make an impact, finishing ninth.
Hotazhell Lands Irish Champion Stakes Thriller
The opening day of the Irish Champions Festival delivered a huge result when Hotazhell landed the Group 1 Irish Champion Stakes (2000m) at Leopardstown.
Starting as a 51.00 outsider, the Jessica Harrington-trained runner was brought into the contest by Shane Foley before hitting the front late.
Wimbledon Hawkeye finished powerfully on the outside, but Hotazhell held on by a nose after a lengthy photo finish. Favourite Constitution River was another three-quarters of a length away in third.
The victory confirmed that Hotazhell’s previous Group 1 success in Germany was no fluke and continued a strong season for the durable four-year-old.
Harrington indicated that the British Champion Stakes at Ascot could be his final start before retirement to stud.
Blue Bolt Extends Group 1 Winning Streak
Blue Bolt made it five consecutive victories (Pic: PA Media)
Outstanding mare Blue Bolt completed a Group 1 hat-trick with an authoritative performance in the Group 1 Matron Stakes (1600m).
Colin Keane positioned the Andrew Balding-trained mare just behind the leaders before finding clear running room in the straight.
Once asked to quicken, Blue Bolt took control and opened up inside the final 100 metres, defeating City Of Memphis by 2¼ lengths. Fallen Angel filled third position.
The result was Blue Bolt’s fifth consecutive victory and followed her earlier Group 1 triumphs in the Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket and Prix Rothschild at Deauville.
Her latest performance further strengthened her position among Europe’s leading female milers.
Darkness Falls Announces Himself
(Darkness Falls ridden by Ryan Moore on their way to winning the HKJC World Pool Golden Fleece Stakes on day one of the Irish Champions Weekend at Leopardstown Racecourse in Dublin, Ireland. Picture PA Media)
Promising juvenile Darkness Falls continued his rapid rise by winning the newly upgraded Group 1 Golden Fleece Stakes (1600m).
The Aidan O’Brien-trained colt arrived at Leopardstown following an impressive Curragh victory and handled the rise in class with another professional performance.
His victory established him as one of Ireland’s leading two-year-old prospects and added another potential Classic contender to the powerful Ballydoyle team for next season.
Comanche Brave Produces Flying Finish
July Cup winner Comanche Brave added another major sprint to his record with a brilliant late burst in the Group 1 Flying Five Stakes (1000m).
The Donnacha O’Brien-trained sprinter was travelling strongly under Billy Loughnane but remained trapped behind runners approaching the final furlong.
A gap eventually appeared inside the final 100 metres and Comanche Brave accelerated through it, quickly sweeping past American Affair to win by 1¼ lengths. Rumstar finished another half-length away in third.
The victory was particularly impressive as it came on his first attempt over the minimum distance.
It also earned Comanche Brave an automatic place in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint, with connections considering trips to both Keeneland and Hong Kong later in the year.
Folsom Blues Runs Away With National Stakes
A powerful finishing performance saw Folsom Blues announce himself as a serious Classic prospect in the Group 1 Vincent O’Brien National Stakes (1400m).
The Joseph O’Brien-trained colt travelled comfortably for Joey Sheridan before taking control approaching the final 200 metres.
From there, Folsom Blues stretched clear of the field to defeat stablemate Monogram by six lengths, completing a one-two finish for the O’Brien stable. Florida Bay finished third.
Runner-up to Sun Goddess in the Phoenix Stakes at his previous appearance, the return to 1400 metres brought out significant improvement from the son of Blue Point.
The Dewhurst Stakes and Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf are among the options now available to connections.
Scandinavia Reigns Supreme In Irish St Leger
Scandinavia on his way to winning he Irish St Leger (Pic: Evan Treacy/PA)
Europe’s dominant stayer Scandinavia extended his winning sequence to eight with another relentless performance in the Group 1 Irish St Leger (2800m).
Ryan Moore tracked stablemate Queenstown before asking the odds-on favourite to take control inside the final 400 metres.
Scandinavia initially had to work to gain the upper hand but was drawing clear near the finish, defeating Queenstown by two lengths. Jan Brueghel finished another three-quarters of a length away as Aidan O’Brien trained the first three horses home.
The four-year-old has now won five Group 1 races during his remarkable sequence, including the English St Leger, two editions of the Goodwood Cup, the Ascot Gold Cup and now the Irish St Leger.
His latest success completed an outstanding afternoon for the O’Brien family, with Aidan winning through Sun Goddess and Scandinavia, Donnacha striking with Comanche Brave and Joseph taking the National Stakes with Folsom Blues.
While several autumn options remain available, Aidan O’Brien suggested Scandinavia could be rested and prepared for another assault on the Ascot Gold Cup next year.
By Scott Bailey
Video StarsRace 3 – 4 MADE FOR LIFE
He showed improvement after dropping to Class 5 for the first time last start, charging home strongly to finish fourth over 1200m. With a clearer run in the straight, he may well have finished in the top three.
Following a further rating drop during the off-season, he looks well placed to make an immediate impact first-up.
Race 7 – 4 CALIFORNIA WAVES
A tardy start compromised his chances on his Class 4 debut last time out, forcing him to settle further back than intended. The slow tempo then made matters worse, leaving those racing off the speed at a clear disadvantage, so that effort is best overlooked.
He had previously produced several honest runs in Class 3 and deserves another chance at his second start in this grade.
Sectional StarsRace 5 – 2 KEMPES
From a wide draw last start, he settled patiently off the speed before reeling off a fast final sectional to finish seventh over 1400m in Class 3. Having trialled well for his return, he should relish the drop to Class 4 and can make his presence felt under the right race shape.
Race 9 – 8 THUNDER KIT
After a luckless third two starts ago, when held up from the 400m to the 150m, he produced another eye-catching effort last time out, attacking the line strongly to finish third once again. He has shown that he is competitive in this grade and looks one to follow closely in the new season.
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.
Ka Ying Rising has created history in the wake of his record-breaking performance in the G3 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (6 September) by achieving the highest rating ever awarded to a sprinter and returning to outright number one in the LONGINES World’s Best Racehorse Rankings (LWBRR).
Unbeaten in his past 21 starts, Ka Ying Rising rose to a new career peak mark of 135 – four points clear of Ombudsman (131) – when the latest interim rankings were released on Thursday, 10 September.
Undefeated since February 2024, Ka Ying Rising received the four-point rise after scorching to his sixth course record at Sha Tin, and a fifth over the 1200m turf course, with a blistering 1m 06.11s for a seven-and-three-quarter-length victory.
The ratings panel’s decision to elevate Ka Ying Rising to 135 saw him surpass the previous highest mark achieved by a sprinter – Australian champion Black Caviar, who was assessed at 132 after winning the 2011 G1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) in record time. Black Caviar retired unbeaten after 25 starts.
Trained by David Hayes and ridden by Zac Purton, Ka Ying Rising concluded 2025 rated 128 and, this year, elevated his mark to 130 in May, 131 in July and now 135.
Ka Ying Rising’s latest ranking is the joint-fourth highest mark ever given to a horse in the history of the LWBRR behind Frankel, who scored 136 and 140 in 2011 and 2012, Flightline (140) and Sea The Stars (136).
It puts him on the same mark as Baaeed, Harbinger and Japan’s highest-ever rated horse Equinox (135).
Nine-time Group 1 winner Ka Ying Rising, who travels to Sydney, Australia to defend his G1 The Everest (1200m) crown next month, conceded 20lb to his opposition last weekend as he dominated from the front under top weight (135lb).
The superstar sprinter first broke Sacred Kingdom’s 1200m Sha Tin record of 1m 07.50s – which stood for 17 years – after clocking 1m 07.43s in the 2024 G2 BOCHK Private Banking Jockey Club Sprint (1200m).
The Shamexpress six-year-old then bettered his own record to 1m 07.20s in the 2025 G1 Centenary Sprint Cup (1200m) before lowering it twice more – 1m 07.12s in the 2026 G2 Sprint Cup (1200m) before his 1m 07.10s in the 2026 G1 Chairman’s Sprint Prize (1200m), the previous best before last Sunday’s blitz.
His 1m 19.36s in the 2026 G1 Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (1400m) at Sha Tin is also a record.
Ombudsman, a four-time Group 1 winner, is second behind Ka Ying Rising in the latest LWBRR standings. Recently retired star three-year-old Bow Echo comes next on 127. Hong Kong’s 15-time Group 1 winner Romantic Warrior, French-trained four-year-old Daryz and last-start G1 International Stakes (2051m) hero Item both rate 126.
Ka Ying Rising has entered quarantine at Sha Tin and will travel to Sydney later this month for The Everest – the world’s richest turf race – at Royal Randwick on 17 October.
A Progress Plate over 1200m is the headliner at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday, and it could be won by Duncan Howells-trained Hierarchy.
The Erupt filly caught the eye in the Gr 1 SA Fillies Sprint over this course and distance in her penultimate start, finishing just 2,65 lengths behind in fourth. She is now well weighted after a disappointing start last time at Hollywoodbets Greyville. Comfortably the best weighted runner, she should take a power of beating.
Gimmethegreenlight filly Sweet Green finished just 0,90 lengths behind Palace Of Arvernia in the Gr 2 World Pool With Race Coast Debutante over 1200m last time and should be in the shake-up.
Erik Dubois is a Gr 1 winner over 1600m, making this trip likely too sharp. However, the giant is progressing all the time and should be running on strongly despite the distance.
In the first leg of the Pick 6 over 1600m, Pink Skies has produced some good races and has a fine chance. That’s a Gimme is also in form and should be involved, while Magical Spring is drawn in pole and has been in good form.
Over 1400m, Concierge made a good KZN debut after showing useful Cape Town form and should be hard to beat. Hello Handsome made a fair debut and should be in the shake-up. Owner Of Creation has been knocking on the door and, over an ideal trip, should be thereabouts despite a wide draw.
In the fifth race over 1400m, Nordic Chief went close the last time he raced at this course and has a plum draw. Please Be True is an honest sort who should be right there, while Tam’s Knights won well last time and, although this is tougher, should be in the shake-up.
The sixth race over 1000m sees Stronger Together looking a decent sort who can prove it by winning off an 85 merit rating. Arverni Princess is suited by these merit-rated band races, receiving a gender allowance, and can go close again over her favourite course and distance. Luneluck also enjoys this course and distance and should be involved.
In the last over 1200m, Anushka has plenty of talent and looks the one to beat back in ordinary company. Lady Godiva ran a cracker last time and can go close with a repeat. Blue Lagoon brings decent Cape Town form and should be right there despite running fresh.
In the first race over 1200m, Clean Sweep met good company last time and did well, so can go close in this easier task.
Over 1000m in the second, Champagne Mac gets on well with this apprentice and should be right there.
David Thiselton
Punters looking for a jockey to follow at Turffontein’s Inside track on Saturday should keep Calvin Habib high on the shortlist. The experienced rider has three appealing opportunities on an eight-race Highveld card, and a hat-trick is a realistic proposition if the form holds.
Habib’s first assignment comes in Race 2 aboard Fanie Bronkhorst’s Bold Action, although stablemate Rosy Lemon may have the stronger betting credentials on recent evidence. She finished a solid second last time out from her current mark and brings reliable form into the contest.
Habib’s more likely chance of getting off the mark comes in Race 3, however, when lightly raced four-year-old Knowmore looks poised to make his presence felt. Alec Laird saddles two runners in the opening leg of the Pick 6, but the riding arrangements suggest Habib’s mount may be the stable’s preferred option.
A son of Fire Away, Knowmore opened his account over this course and distance last season and has acquitted himself well in three subsequent attempts over the same trip, despite racing off a higher mark. He stayed on purposefully from the rear when fourth last time behind a well-handicapped older rival and does not need to improve significantly to fight out the finish off a career-low rating from gate No 1.
Habib’s second strong winning chance comes in Race 5, where Clinton Binda’s Whatsdamatterwithu could prove particularly well suited by the return to a more favourable course-and-distance setup. The three-year-old son of Fire Away boasts an excellent record with Habib, having won twice and finished third twice in four starts with the rider aboard. Both victories came over 1160m, making the step up from 1000m to 1200m look more like an opportunity than a concern. Gate 1 again enhances his claims.
The runner capable of turning Habib’s treble into a serious betting result is Bright And Brazen in Race 7. Robyn Klaasen’s speedy four-year-old filly returns to 1200m, the course and distance over which she registered back-to-back victories before finishing a commendable third in last month’s feature. Habib partnered her that day and retains the ride.
Her penultimate start over 1000m can readily be forgiven, particularly in light of how well she performed when returned to this trip in the feature. She is also joint-best weighted on official ratings, giving her a compelling profile from a betting perspective and making her arguably the most interesting leg of the three.
Habib has no ride in Races 4 and 6, but that may ultimately be an advantage. Rather than being diluted by a book full of speculative mounts, his three rides all have credible winning prospects. Knowmore looks the banker material, Whatsdamatterwithu the progressive alternative and Bright And Brazen the value play to complete the treble.
Clive Robinson
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RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: VAAL@2026.09.22
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 1, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R115.000, 12:15GMT+2Race Summary: CHANCELLOR made encouraging late headway on debut as a 2yo in open company and would have benefitted from that experience. He is open to any amount of improvement on his reappearance after gelding, so it could pay to follow his progress. BERRY LANCER has the form and experience to pose a threat, while newcomers SECRET SANTA, BLUNDERBORE and STILO NOVO don’t have to be special to make their presence felt. Betting support would speak volumes about their chances on debut – follow the market moves.
Selections: #4 Chancellor, #5 Secret Santa, #3 Blunderbore, #7 Stilo Novo
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 2, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R110.000, 12:50GMT+2Race Summary: PITERAQ was an encouraging 2nd at this track on her Highveld debut and won’t need to improve much to go one better over this extended trip with the cheekpieces refitted. Lightly raced TREASURE STATE has shown enough to fight out the finish and has scope for improvement too. SATISFIED had legitimate excuses for a disappointing last start over further and is capable of a better showing over this trip after a break. Watch the betting on newcomers RANK AND FILE and STEEL AND SATIN. Experienced MEGHAN’S DIAMOND has earning potential too.
Selections: #1 Piteraq, #4 Treasure State, #7 Satisfied, #10 Rank And File
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 3, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R110.000, 13:25GMT+2Race Summary: WINTER RAINFALL has dropped to a competitive rating and was 4th in a stronger race last time, albeit over 1200m. She could capitalise on this drop in class off a reduced mark if running to a similar level over this extended trip. LOST FOR WORDS is lightly raced and open to improvement stretching out to this distance for the first time, so she has to be respected. BEAUTIFUL RANIA and FIRE IN HER SOUL are closely matched on recent form, and they remain competitive off their current marks. WINDS OF GRACE is also capable of getting into the picture.
Selections: #2 Winter Rainfall, #1 Lost For Words, #4 Beautiful Rania, #3 Fire In Her Soul
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 4, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R115.000, 14:00GMT+2Race Summary: This won’t take much winning. BE THE ONE improved to finish 2nd over 1450m last time and a repeat of that performance over this extended trip should suffice. MADRID and JET PLATINO will know more about it after much-needed educational outings so could improve to have a say, along with GIDDY UP GRACE after a satisfactory Highveld introduction. LANCE ATTACK could have more to offer trying the trip.
Selections: #7 Be The One, #1 Giddy Up Grace, #6 Madrid, #5 Jet Platino
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 5, Gallops, 2000m, Turf, R115.000, 14:35GMT+2Race Summary: CLAIRWOOD BREEZE wouldn’t be winning out of turn after back-to-back recent seconds before joining his current yard. However, preference is for improving ONE EYE ON DUBAI who should have more to offer going this distance after a last-start 2nd over 1700m. SIVAJI, COMIC ARTIST and VERDANDI have the form and experience to also have a say in the outcome.
Selections: #6 One Eye On Dubai, #1 Clairwood Breeze, #3 Comic Artist, #2 Sivaji
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 6, Gallops, 2400m, Turf, R150.000, 15:10GMT+2Race Summary: British import DEEPONE would have needed his local introduction and is open to improvement trying this distance. However, conceding 9kg to last-start winner BELLEROPHON could prove a bridge too far over this trip. SAMUEL SHARPE, FUTUREWOLFF and POSITIVE ATTITUDE are proven stayers with the means to make their presence felt too.
Selections: #2 Bellerophon, #1 Deepone, #8 Samuel Sharpe, #6 Positive Attitude
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 7, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R120.000, 15:45GMT+2Race Summary: BOUNDLESS LOVE was a game-in-defeat 2nd in a similar contest over 1800m last time and should be right in the firing line again over this shorter trip, even off a slightly higher mark. Exciting SHERIFF BILL BROWN won consecutive starts to close out a promising juvenile campaign and is open to any amount of improvement on his reappearance as a 3yo. Fellow-last-start winner PALACE ATTACK remains competitive under a penalty, as do veteran AFTER HOURS and progressive AINT NO DOUBT.
Selections: #1 Boundless Love, #4 Sheriff Bill Brown, #3 Palace Attack, #8 Aint No Doubt
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 8, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R135.000, 16:20GMT+2Race Summary: Cases can be made for several of these but a chance is taken on THE LAST DUKE whose form and consistency at a higher level stands him in good stead, even under top weight. VIBE SA, ANTONIO GAUDI and COLD SHINE have solid course-and-distance credentials and should be competitive on recent form. TITAN OF THE TURF bounced back to form last time with blinkers fitted and could make his presence again with the headgear retained. Well-related STONEYWOOD and returning BELIEVE IN FATE (gelded) aren’t taken lightly either.
Selections: #2 The Last Duke, #4 Vibe Sa, #7 Antonio Gaudi, #12 Cold Shine
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 9, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R100.000, 16:55GMT+2Race Summary: ME AND YOU improved with each outing as a 2yo and confirmed as much with a dominant last-start success over 1600m. With further progress expected during her 3yo campaign, this is a good opportunity for her to make a winning reappearance. EIGHT HATS, CONCORDIA and SECRET LIFE have the form and experience to challenge, especially in receipt of weight from the selection. BEAUTIFUL ONE and CAN’T CATCH ME are others with earning potential.
Selections: #1 Me And You, #3 Eight Hats, #8 Secret Life, #4 Concordia
Best Win: #7 BE THE ONE
Best Value Bet: #2 THE LAST DUKE
Best Longshot: #2 THE LAST DUKE
Download your daily UK express form for FREE:RACE 1: RACING TV APPRENTICE HANDICAP (6) (FROM HAMILTON RACE 1) – 1672M | TIME: 20:43 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7000
APRIL DIAMOND (IRE) Stayed near rear, improved from 400m out, took 2nd 200m out, led final 100m, won 1400m Maiden Handicap at Carlisle by short head in August. HOSTELRY Midfield, moved center from 400m out, chased leaders final 200m, finished 2nd, 2.5 lengths behind Evelyn’s Phoenix at Beverley 1700m Handicap in September. LITTLE TED Slow start, midfield, pushed 600m out, moved up to 2nd in final 200m, finished 2nd, 1.5 lengths behind winner at 1600m Handicap in September. DARING LEADER (IRE) Led, ridden 400m out, headed over 200m out, weakened finishing 7th, 7 lengths behind Starliner in 1600m Handicap at Newcastle in September.
RACE 2: HSBC UK AGRICULTURE NURSERY (5) (FROM LEICESTER RACE 1) – 1658M | TIME: 20:59 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7000
Q T BOY Took lead, pushed 400m out, ridden over 200m, won readily at Bath 1600m 2YO Handicap by 2.75 lengths in September. PEQUENITA Held midfield, challenged in final 200m, close for 2nd, nose to Magnesium at Kempton 1600m in September. PARADING Slow start, advanced over 200m, finished strong, took 3rd by 4 lengths behind winner Poppy Foxy at Lingfield 1600m in August. AGITATOR Mid-division, finished 14th behind Sword Salute at 1400m 2YO Handicap in July.
RACE 3: EVOLUTION, YOUR PARTNER FOR FASTENER SOLUTIONS EBF MAIDEN STAKES (GBB RACE) (4) (FROM HAMILTON RACE 2) – 1012M | TIME: 21:15 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 11500BY JOVE GRACE (IRE) Towards rear, dropped last, outpaced before halfway, rallied from 200m out, finished 2nd, 0.75 lengths behind winner at Musselburgh 1000m in August. KUMHARAS Tracked leaders, ridden over 200m out, finished last, 3.5 lengths behind The Resdev Roman in 1000m 2YO Novice Stakes in September. MRS BLUE (FR) Tracked 3rd, pushed past 200m out, finished last, 7 lengths behind Minster Man in 1000m 2YO Novice Stakes in August. QUEEN OF TEARS (IRE) Always last, lost touch 200m out, finished last, 16 lengths behind Not My Type in 1000m Novice Stakes at Beverley in August
RACE 4: RACING BET-BUILDER AT SPREADEX SPORTS FILLIES’ NURSERY (5) (FROM LEICESTER RACE 2) – 1207M | TIME: 21:31 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7000
LOVEL Y DARK ANGEL (IRE) Prominent tracked wide, took 2nd after 400m, chased winner from 400m out, weakened in last 200m, finished 2nd, 1.5 lengths be hind winner at 1200m in August. BLADEY LADY (IRE) Midfield, pushed and switched right 400m out, led 200m out, won at T hirsk 1200m 2YO Handicap by 0.75 lengths in September. SIOUX MOON Held up, switched right 400m out, pushed past 200m , advanced, finished 2nd by 3 lengths at Southwell 1000m 2YO Filly Novice Stakes in August. TROUBLESOME GUEST (IRE) Led early, pressed until 200m out, headed final 20 0m, finished 4th by 1.25 lengths to Beauty Box in 1000m Handicap in August.
RACE 5: WATCH RACING TV FREE FOR 31 DAYS HANDICAP (5) (FROM HAMILTON RACE 3) – 2428M | TIME: 21:47 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8000
PERSEUS WAY (IRE) Led, tracked leader after 800m, pushed after 600m, led near 200m, won by neck at Hamilton 2600m Handicap in September. SPANISH HUSTLE Tracked early, held rear, pushed past 600m out, st eady progress, 2nd by neck behind Perseus Way at Hamilton 2600m in September. HUMBLE SPARK (IRE) Midfield, close 400m out, challenged entering last 200m, weakened final 100m, finished 5th, 4.5 lengths behind Pearl Eye at Ayr 2600m Handicap in September. YAFREH Midfield, chased leaders until 200m out, finished 5th, 12 lengths behind Per Contra at Redcar 2000m Handicap in September.
RACE 6: BRITISH STALLION STUDS EBF MAIDEN STAKES (GBB RACE) (3) (FROM LEICESTER RACE 3) – 1408M | TIME: 22:02 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 17000
WARRIOR KNIGHT (IRE) Mehmas colt out of Quickstep Lady. POOLE BAY (IRE) New Bay colt out of Knocknagree. ESCALATE Baaeed colt out of Priceless. DENVER SLUICE Iffraaj colt out of Flourishing.
RACE 7: SIR IAN GOOD MEMORIAL HANDICAP (3) (FROM HAMILTON RACE 4) – 1012M | TIME: 22:22 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 25000
LITTLE MI MI (IRE) Wore red hood, tracked rear mid-division, pushed 400m out, no response, finished 14th, 7 lengths behind winner at York 1000m Handicap in September. ARKLOW LAD (IRE) Soon pushed rear, wore hood; outpaced over 200m out, finished last, 12 lengths behind winner at Haydock 1000m Handicap in September . JORDAN ELECTRICS Held up at rear, blocked 400m out, stayed on final 200m, finished 10th, 7 lengths behind Eye Of Dubai at Ayr 1200m Handicap in September. SIR YOSHI (IRE) Midfield, weakened in final 200m, finished 8th, 8 lengths behind Trilby at Beverley 1000m Handicap in August.
RACE 8: S & D BOOKMAKERS LTD 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS – EBF MAIDEN FILLIES’ STAKES (GBB/GBBPLUS RACE) (3) (FROM LEICESTER RACE 4) – 2012M | TIME: 22:37 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 12000
ALLAIRE Led early, briefly 2 lengths clear, weakened after 400m, finished last, 10 lengths behind winner at Newbury 2000m in May. WADOODA Slow start, recovered mid-division, gained 2nd wit h 1.25 lengths behind winner Act Of Kindn over 1400m last October. RAIDER (IRE) Saxon Warrior filly out of Mais Si. SUMMER IN PARIS Prominent, raced keenly, weakened quickly 200m out, finished 6th, 8 lengths behind Lady Dora Mae at Windsor 1600m Handicap in May.
RACE 9: HEINEKEN LOW & NO BAR HANDICAP (5) (FROM HAMILTON RACE 5) – 1012M | TIME: 22:55 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 8000
THORNABY PEARL Close behind leader over 400m out, led then overtaken inside final 200m, finished 2nd by 0.5 lengths at Ripon 1000m Handicap in August. HARB Towards rear, pushed halfway, never involved, finished 15th, 7 lengths behind Oriental Prince in 1000m Handicap at York in September. MILITARY GIRL (IRE) Mid-pack, pushed midway, ridden, led final 100m, won comfortably by 0.75 lengths at Catterick 1000m Handicap in September. VEYDARI (IRE) Led early, ridden 400m out, lost lead 200m out, kept steady to finish 2nd, 1.75 lengths behind Fiscal Poli cy at Pontefract 1200m Handicap in June.
RACE 10: PATTINSON AUCTION WINNING BID HANDICAP (5) (FROM LEICESTER RACE 5) – 1207M | TIME: 23:12 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7000
ACT OF VIOLENCE Prominent led 200m out, headed inside last 100m, finished 2nd by 0.75 lengths to Sergeant Mayer in 1000m Handicap in September. MUMAYAZ (IRE) Held at rear, improved 400m out, pushed 200m out, finished 5th, 3.5 lengths behind Harry’s Halo at Leicester 1200m Handicap in September. TRAVEL AGENT (IRE) Fly jumped well, stayed at rear, pushed over 400m out, slight progress final 200m, finished 5th, 6 lengths behind Classy Clarets over 1200m Handicap in August. DIAMONDINTHEDARK Wore hood, raced wide from 400m out, weakened, fin ished 6th, 12 lengths behind Miracleoftheandes at Wolverhampton 1200m Handicap in August.
RACE 11: GET CLOSER WITH A RACINGTV FREE TRIAL HANDICAP (4) (FROM HAMILTON RACE 6) – 1212M | TIME: 23:30 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 10100
CITY CAPTAIN Led leaders, pushed 400m out, ridden 200m out, stayed well to win Hamilton 1200m Handicap by 1 length in August. FARANDAWAY (IRE) Midfield, switched right 200m out, strong finish to win at Ripon 1200m Handicap by 1 length from Almarada Prince in September. ABDUCTION (FR) Pressed leaders, pushed after 400m, finished strong 4th, 0.75 lengths behind Hunky Dory at Hamilton 1200m Handicap in August. BELSITO (GER) Led but pressured, headed 400m out, battled on; ridden over 200m, held 2nd by head to Hunky Dory at Hamilton 1200m Handicap in August.
RACE 12: FIREWORKS FESTIVAL 7TH NOVEMBER 2026 – BOOK NOW HANDICAP (4) (FROM LEICESTER RACE 6) – 1658M | TIME: 23:47 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 10000
METALLO (IRE) Mid-division, ridden over 400m out, improved over 200m, finished 2nd, 1.5 lengths behind Warrior Mode at Kempton 1600m Handicap in August. BEARIN UP (IRE) Tracked leaders, advanced over 200m, finished 3rd, 1.75 lengths behind Monoceros at Haydock 1600m Handicap in September. TRIO Slow start, mid-pack, ridden 600m out, improved 400m out, kept pace final 200m, finis hed 5th, 4 lengths behind winner at Epsom Downs 200 0m Handicap in August. BREAKDANCER (IRE) Led at start, headed 400m out, faded in final 200m , finished 6th, 11 lengths behind Victory Ace at Kempton 1600m Handicap in August.
RACE 13: START YOUR RACINGTV FREE TRIAL NOW CONFINED HANDICAP (6) (FROM HAMILTON RACE 7) – 1212M | TIME: 00:02 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7000
EDMOND HALLEY (IRE) Soon led, hung left, headed 400m out, pushed 200m out, weakened final 100m, finished 5th, 3.5 lengths behind Novak at Musselburgh 1400m Handicap in August. BAY BREEZE Led, challenged until 200m mark, stayed strong, finished 3rd, 0.75 lengths behind winner Donald at Carlisle 1200m Handicap in September. LESLEY’S BOY Taken down early, outpaced 600m out, steady progress over 200m, finished well inside final 200m, fini shed 4th, 2 lengths behind winner at 1200m in September. IMPRESSOR (IRE) Mid-division, weakened over 200m out, finished 12th, 8 lengths behind Big Apple Jack in 1200m Handicap in September.
RACE 14: VISIT RACINGTV.COM APPRENTICE HANDICAP (6) (FROM LEICESTER RACE 7) – 1408M | TIME: 00:17 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 6000
VIOLET GOLDSMITH Chased leaders, pushed 400m out, ridden and challenged 200m out, stayed on in duel, narrowly held, finished 2nd by a head at Kemp ton 1600m Handicap in September. MIDNIGHT’S DREAM (IRE) Mid- pack, strong progress over 400m out, pushed to 3rd, no extra in last 200m, finished 3rd, 1.25 lengths behind winner at Lingfield 1400m Handicap in September. RIDGER (IRE) Held up, pushed 400m out, late progress to finish 2nd, 1.25 lengths behind Macarone over 1200m at Ffos Las in August. CREDIT FORGEDD IT (IRE) Midfield, advanced over 200m out, kept improving to finish 3rd, 3.5 lengths behind Royal C ounty Glory at Lingfield 1400m Handicap in September.
RACE 15: FREE TIPS ON ATTHERACES.COM EBF RESTRICTED MAIDEN STAKES (GBB RACE) (4) (FROM WOLVERHAMPTON RACE 4) – 1441M | TIME: 00:42 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 11000
ALJOON (IRE) Chased winner, weakened 200m out, finished 3rd, 3 lengths behind winner over 1400m at Lingfield in August. PIGEON PETE Slow start, moved to inner rail, midfield; advanced over 200m out, chased winner in final 200m, finished 2nd by 1.25 lengths at 1400m in August. REICHENBACH F ALLS Led early, briefly led again, weakened inside final 200m, finished 3rd, 2.5 lengths behind Tredegar Square in 1400m 2YO Novice Stakes at Kempton in August. NILSATIS SUPREME (IRE) Always at rear, no challenge, finished 8th, 17 lengths behind My Maria in 1200m Novice Stakes at Wolverhampton in August.
RACE 16: RACE & REST – WOLVERHAMPTON HOLIDAY INN HANDICAP (DIV 1) (6) (FROM WOLVERHAMPTON RACE 5) – 1441M | TIME: 01:12 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 6200
CUBAN FIESTA Handy inside, pushed 400m out, led near final 200m , challenged, stayed strongly to win by 0.5 lengths at Lingfield 1400m in February. JOUD Slow start, midfield, ridden 400m out, kept on final 200m, finished 5th, 10 lengths behind Yordan at Newcastle 1200m Novice Stakes in September. BARRY THE WORM Held rear, improved 400m out, stayed on final 200m, finished 6th, 8 lengths behind Happier at Kempton 1200m Handicap in September. FASTER BEE Mid-division, lost ground over 400m out, finished last, 17 lengths behind Iconic Times at Wolverhampton 1400m Handicap in July.
RACE 17: RACE & REST – WOLVERHAMPTON HOLIDAY INN HANDICAP (DIV 2) (6) (FROM WOLVERHAMPTON RACE 6) – 1441M | TIME: 01:42 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 6200
RAIN CAP Slow start, middle pack, faded 400m out, rallied, finished 4th, 1.75 lengths behind winner at Newcastle 1200m in September. DISTILLATION (FR) Chased leaders wide, led 800m out, battled 400m out, edged last stride, finished 2nd, narrowly behind King Sharja at Wolverhampton 1400m Handicap in September. BUNGLE BAY (IRE) Midfield, gained ground 400m out, lost 3rd 200m out , kept pace, finished 4th, 6 lengths behind winner Shes Got The Blues at Leicester 1400m Classified Stakes in June. BASED (IRE) Held up, blocked 600m out, ridden over 400m, kept on steadily, finished 7th, 9 lengths behind King Sharja at Wolverhampton 1400m Handicap in September.
RACE 18: FOLLOW ATTHERACES ON X HANDICAP (5) (FROM WOLVERHAMPTON RACE 7) – 1739M | TIME: 02:12 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 7600
ESP ANITA (IRE) Held position 2nd, pushed past 200m out, led, won by 1.25 lengths at Lingfield 1600m Handicap in September. AMERICAN STATE (IRE) Led, pushed over 400m out, headed over 200m out, weakened last 100m, finished 4th, 5 lengths behind Hot And Cold at Southwell 1600m Handicap in September. THE HARE RAIL (IRE) Early move, midfield; ridden 400m out, finished 3rd , 3.5 lengths behind Reds And Wolves over 1800m Handicap in July. MOON BEGINNINGS (IRE) Rear mid-division, pushed over 400m out, no progress, finished 9th, 4.5 lengths behind Bold Suitor at Kempton 1400m Handicap in September.
RACE 19: BOOK NOW AT WOLVERHAMPTON-RACECOURSE.CO.UK HANDICAP (6) (FROM WOLVERHAMPTON RACE 8) – 2461M | TIME: 02:42 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 6200
SATYRESS Prominent led 400m out, won strongly by 2.5 lengths at Thirsk 2400m Handicap in September. LAWMANS BLIS (IRE) Wore red hood, mid-division, improved 600m out, challenged 400m out, finished 3rd, 2 lengths behind winner at Newcastle 2400m Handicap in September. ARLECCHINO’S REX Held back, improved over 400m out, ridden strong last 100m, led at finish, won 2400m Handicap at Lingfield by short head in September. GREY SANDS (IRE) Mid-division, ridden over 400m out, no progress, finished 5th, 4 lengths behind Perfect Ruler at Ling field 1600m Handicap in August.
RACE 20: FOLLOW ATTHERACES ON INSTAGRAM HANDICAP (6) (FROM WOLVERHAMPTON RACE 9) – 1225M | TIME: 03:12 | PRIZE MONEY: GBP 9000
TRUST SERGEI Held mid-division, improved 400m out, switched lef t 200m out, battled to win by nose at Wolverhampton 1200m Handicap in September. FAR TOO FIZZY Kept close, led before 400m, headed inside last 20 0m, faded final 100m, finished 5th, 3 lengths behind Watchdog at Lingfield 1200m Handicap in September. MIDNIGHT CALL (IRE) Led, pushed 400m out, ridden and narrowly headed 200m out, finished 2nd, 2 lengths behind winner at Wolverhampton 1000m Handicap in September. GO LOCKERS GO Wore hood, missed break, always behind, finished last, 13 lengths behind Watchdog at Lingfield 1200m 3YO Handicap in September.
RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: VAAL@2026.09.22
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 1, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R115.000, 12:15GMT+2
Race Summary: CHANCELLOR made encouraging late headway on debut as a 2yo in open company and would have benefitted from that experience. He is open to any amount of improvement on his reappearance after gelding, so it could pay to follow his progress. BERRY LANCER has the form and experience to pose a threat, while newcomers SECRET SANTA, BLUNDERBORE and STILO NOVO don’t have to be special to make their presence felt. Betting support would speak volumes about their chances on debut – follow the market moves.
Selections: #4 Chancellor, #5 Secret Santa, #3 Blunderbore, #7 Stilo Novo
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 2, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R110.000, 12:50GMT+2
Race Summary: PITERAQ was an encouraging 2nd at this track on her Highveld debut and won’t need to improve much to go one better over this extended trip with the cheekpieces refitted. Lightly raced TREASURE STATE has shown enough to fight out the finish and has scope for improvement too. SATISFIED had legitimate excuses for a disappointing last start over further and is capable of a better showing over this trip after a break. Watch the betting on newcomers RANK AND FILE and STEEL AND SATIN. Experienced MEGHAN’S DIAMOND has earning potential too.
Selections: #1 Piteraq, #4 Treasure State, #7 Satisfied, #10 Rank And File
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 3, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R110.000, 13:25GMT+2
Race Summary: WINTER RAINFALL has dropped to a competitive rating and was 4th in a stronger race last time, albeit over 1200m. She could capitalise on this drop in class off a reduced mark if running to a similar level over this extended trip. LOST FOR WORDS is lightly raced and open to improvement stretching out to this distance for the first time, so she has to be respected. BEAUTIFUL RANIA and FIRE IN HER SOUL are closely matched on recent form, and they remain competitive off their current marks. WINDS OF GRACE is also capable of getting into the picture.
Selections: #2 Winter Rainfall, #1 Lost For Words, #4 Beautiful Rania, #3 Fire In Her Soul
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 4, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R115.000, 14:00GMT+2
Race Summary: This won’t take much winning. BE THE ONE improved to finish 2nd over 1450m last time and a repeat of that performance over this extended trip should suffice. MADRID and JET PLATINO will know more about it after much-needed educational outings so could improve to have a say, along with GIDDY UP GRACE after a satisfactory Highveld introduction. LANCE ATTACK could have more to offer trying the trip.
Selections: #7 Be The One, #1 Giddy Up Grace, #6 Madrid, #5 Jet Platino
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 5, Gallops, 2000m, Turf, R115.000, 14:35GMT+2
Race Summary: CLAIRWOOD BREEZE wouldn’t be winning out of turn after back-to-back recent seconds before joining his current yard. However, preference is for improving ONE EYE ON DUBAI who should have more to offer going this distance after a last-start 2nd over 1700m. SIVAJI, COMIC ARTIST and VERDANDI have the form and experience to also have a say in the outcome.
Selections: #6 One Eye On Dubai, #1 Clairwood Breeze, #3 Comic Artist, #2 Sivaji
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 6, Gallops, 2400m, Turf, R150.000, 15:10GMT+2
Race Summary: British import DEEPONE would have needed his local introduction and is open to improvement trying this distance. However, conceding 9kg to last-start winner BELLEROPHON could prove a bridge too far over this trip. SAMUEL SHARPE, FUTUREWOLFF and POSITIVE ATTITUDE are proven stayers with the means to make their presence felt too.
Selections: #2 Bellerophon, #1 Deepone, #8 Samuel Sharpe, #6 Positive Attitude
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 7, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R120.000, 15:45GMT+2
Race Summary: BOUNDLESS LOVE was a game-in-defeat 2nd in a similar contest over 1800m last time and should be right in the firing line again over this shorter trip, even off a slightly higher mark. Exciting SHERIFF BILL BROWN won consecutive starts to close out a promising juvenile campaign and is open to any amount of improvement on his reappearance as a 3yo. Fellow-last-start winner PALACE ATTACK remains competitive under a penalty, as do veteran AFTER HOURS and progressive AINT NO DOUBT.
Selections: #1 Boundless Love, #4 Sheriff Bill Brown, #3 Palace Attack, #8 Aint No Doubt
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 8, Gallops, 1200m, Turf, R135.000, 16:20GMT+2
Race Summary: Cases can be made for several of these but a chance is taken on THE LAST DUKE whose form and consistency at a higher level stands him in good stead, even under top weight. VIBE SA, ANTONIO GAUDI and COLD SHINE have solid course-and-distance credentials and should be competitive on recent form. TITAN OF THE TURF bounced back to form last time with blinkers fitted and could make his presence again with the headgear retained. Well-related STONEYWOOD and returning BELIEVE IN FATE (gelded) aren’t taken lightly either.
Selections: #2 The Last Duke, #4 Vibe Sa, #7 Antonio Gaudi, #12 Cold Shine
Vaal, 22.09.2026, Race 9, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R100.000, 16:55GMT+2
Race Summary: ME AND YOU improved with each outing as a 2yo and confirmed as much with a dominant last-start success over 1600m. With further progress expected during her 3yo campaign, this is a good opportunity for her to make a winning reappearance. EIGHT HATS, CONCORDIA and SECRET LIFE have the form and experience to challenge, especially in receipt of weight from the selection. BEAUTIFUL ONE and CAN’T CATCH ME are others with earning potential.
Selections: #1 Me And You, #3 Eight Hats, #8 Secret Life, #4 Concordia
Best Win: #7 BE THE ONE
Best Value Bet: #2 THE LAST DUKE
Best Longshot: #2 THE LAST DUKE
