One of the highlights of the British Flat racing season returns on Tuesday when the Qatar Goodwood Festival begins five days of top-class action across the famous Sussex Downs. Affectionately known as Glorious Goodwood, the meeting runs from Tuesday, 28 July through to Saturday, 1 August and combines elite racing with one of the most picturesque settings found anywhere in the sport. Goodwood’s sweeping track sits among the rolling West Sussex countryside and provides a very different test to the more conventional racecourses in Britain. The festival has long been recognised as one of the great social and sporting occasions of the British summer, but the quality on the track remains its major attraction. Tuesday’s opening card is headlined by the Group One Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup over 3200 metres. The race has developed into one of the most important staying contests in Europe and once again sits at the centre of the long-distance championship picture. It is scheduled for 3.35pm local time and follows the Group Two Vintage Stakes and HKJC Lennox Stakes earlier on the programme. Scandinavia is set to be one of the leading names after defeating Trawlerman in a memorable edition of the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot. That victory also gave trainer Aidan O’Brien his 100th winner at the Royal meeting and established Scandinavia among the leading stayers of the season. Goodwood’s tight turns, downhill sections and relatively short straight can make the Cup a very different assignment to Ascot. Positioning and balance are crucial, particularly when the tempo increases approaching the home turn. Tuesday also features the Group Two HKJC Lennox Stakes over 1400 metres, a race that regularly attracts horses dropping back from the mile alongside specialist sprinters stepping up in distance. Sussex Stakes takes Wednesday’s spotlight The Group One Visit Qatar Sussex Stakes is the main event on Wednesday and is traditionally one of the defining mile races of the European season. Staged at 4.10pm, the Sussex Stakes brings the leading older milers together with the strongest three-year-olds under weight-for-age conditions. The race has built an outstanding honour roll and has often produced clashes between established champions and emerging stars. The Group Three Oak Tree Stakes and Molecomb Stakes form part of a strong supporting programme, with the Molecomb providing an important test for the leading two-year-old sprinters. Goodwood’s mile begins with a run around the bend before the field straightens for home, placing increased importance on the barrier draw and early tactical position. Horses caught wide or too far back can quickly find themselves facing a difficult task. Nassau Stakes headlines Ladies’ Day Thursday is Ladies’ Day, with the Group One Qatar Nassau Stakes over 2000 metres the feature. The Nassau Stakes is restricted to fillies and mares and has developed into one of the most prestigious races of its kind in Europe. It gives the leading three-year-old fillies an opportunity to take on the older mares, with the weight allowance often playing an important role in the result. The race was won by Whirl in 2025 under unusual circumstances after severe weather forced officials to use a flag start rather than the starting stalls. The 2026 running is scheduled for 3.35pm and is supported by the Group Two Richmond Stakes and Group Three Gordon Stakes. The Gordon Stakes is another important race on the programme and regularly identifies horses capable of progressing towards the St Leger later in the season. Speed takes over on Friday Friday’s card is built around the Group Two Qatar King George Stakes over 1000 metres. The downhill five-furlong course at Goodwood is one of the fastest and most distinctive sprint tracks in Britain. It demands natural speed, balance and the ability to hold a position when the field begins to roll down the hill. The Golden Mile is another major betting race on Friday, with its large field and strong emphasis on the draw making it one of the most competitive handicaps of the week. The Thoroughbred Stakes for three-year-olds and the staying Goodwood Handicap also feature. Stewards’ Cup provides the traditional finale The festival concludes on Saturday with the Coral Stewards’ Cup, one of the most famous sprint handicaps in British racing. Run over 1200 metres, the race regularly attracts a capacity field and can be heavily influenced by the draw, track position and where the strongest early speed develops. Picking the correct side of the track can be just as important as finding the best horse. The Stewards’ Cup is scheduled for 3.35pm, with the Group Three Glorious Stakes and Group Two Lillie Langtry Stakes also forming part of the final-day programme. More than 200 years of racing history Racing at Goodwood dates back to 1802, when the course was established on the estate of the Duke of Richmond. The meeting quickly became an important part of the British racing and social calendar, combining leading thoroughbreds with the unique atmosphere created by its location on the Sussex Downs. Over the years, Goodwood has hosted some of racing’s greatest horses, trainers and jockeys. Its major races have been won by names including Frankel, Battaash, Stradivarius and Yeats, while legendary figures such as Lester Piggott, Sir Gordon Richards, Frankie Dettori and Sir Michael Stoute have all enjoyed significant success at the course. The modern festival may feature greater prize money, international runners and worldwide television coverage, but it has retained the charm that made it famous. From the staying power required in the Goodwood Cup to the pure speed of the King George Stakes and the unpredictability of the Stewards’ Cup, every day offers a different challenge. With five Group races headlining the programme and many of Europe’s leading horses expected to descend on West Sussex, Glorious Goodwood once again promises to be one of the most exciting weeks of the British summer. By Scott Bailey – iRACE

Tony Peter and Gavin Lerena look poised to dominate Saturday’s 25 July eight-race Turffontein Standside programme, with the leading trainer and jockey presenting punters with several of the day’s standout betting propositions. Value hunters could get off to a flying start in Race 1 over 1400m with One State, a Peter-trained son of Grade 1 Met winner One World. This well-bred two-year-old, out of the Listed and Grade 3-placed Ideal World mare Free State, shaped with plenty of promise when finishing an improved fourth after returning from a break during which he was gelded. That career-best effort came over this course and distance, and after a subsequent 97-day break to strengthen and mature, One State looks capable of taking a sizable step forward on his reappearance. With Muzi Yeni aboard, he appeals as one of the day’s better value plays. Race 4 over 1160m offers an opportunity for Geostorm to reverse recent form with stablemate Winter In Auckland. The former, a Peter-trained Buffalo Bill Cody gelding, was narrowly denied by his rival over this course and distance a fortnight ago, but apprentice Girish Samo-Burthia’s valuable 2.5kg claim swings the weights decisively in Geostorm’s favour. On revised terms, he is the one to side with. Another son of Buffalo Bill Cody, Umzingeli Wenyathi, could exact revenge of his own in Race 5 over 1000m. Clinton Binda’s inmate, an improving three-year-old gelding, renews rivalry with last-start conqueror Plus Four on just 1kg better terms for a recent two-length defeat but the booking of champion jockey Gavin Lerena catches the eye. Few riders are better at extracting every ounce from a willing sprinter, and that could prove the decisive factor. Peter and Lerena reunite with arguably the meeting’s standout runner, Precocious, in Race 6. Although the classy Ideal World filly concedes weight to battle-hardened older males, she is the best-weighted horse in the race. Since relocating to the Highveld she has won four of her six starts, developing into one of Peter’s most reliable performers. She tackles further than 1160m for the first time under his care, but being out of a Vercingetorix mare, there is every reason to believe the extra trip will suit. Lerena can complete a lucrative afternoon aboard Winds Of Grace in the finale (Race 8 over 1400m). Mike Azzie’s charge, a consistent Act Of War filly, attracted solid market support in a stronger contest last time and now drops into more suitable company from the same handicap mark. If she reproduces that effort, she should prove difficult to deny.   Clive Robinson

Hollywoodbets Greyville hosts South Africa’s premier race meeting on Sunday, featuring a 10-race card headlined by three Grade 1 contests and the Grade 3 World Pool Gold Cup. The meeting is boosted by Hong Kong Jockey Club co-mingled pools, which often produce attractive betting dividends. The Grade 1 HKJC Champions Cup (2000m) brings together many of the country’s top middle-distance stars. Last year’s Hollywoodbets Durban July winner The Real Prince has been aimed specifically at this race by Dean Kannemeyer and looks primed for a big run. See It Again returns to a venue where he has mixed form but remains a major threat at his best, while Justin Snaith’s Eight On Eighteen is expected to improve after a quiet campaign. Defending champion Gladatorian also commands respect. The Grade 3 World Pool Gold Cup promises a fascinating staying contest. Defending champion King Pelles arrives in excellent form after finishing third in the Durban July and looks the horse to beat over his preferred distance. Continentalexpress could be a value contender carrying bottom weight, while Master Redoute, Ahead Of The Facts, Shoot The Rapids and Enflame all have strong staying credentials. Sprint honours are contested in the Grade 1 Mercury Sprint, where the versatile Questioning bids to continue his outstanding season despite a wide draw. Buffalo Storm Cody, Jet Force, Asiye Phambili and Tenango all have realistic winning claims in a high-quality field. The Grade 1 Champion Stakes for two-year-olds looks wide open. Green Energy, Vibe Check, Moana and Kazenoyoni all bring compelling form into the race. The supporting Grade 2 Douglas Whyte Stakes features Alice B Toklas, who steps up to a mile after an excellent second in the Golden Slipper. Royal Tiara is expected to improve, while unbeaten Eastern Cape filly Marchland adds further intrigue to an outstanding day of racing.

The Durban July may carry the title of Africa’s most famous race, but Sunday’s Group One HKJC Champions Cup at Hollywoodbets Greyville could prove to be the strongest weight-for-age contest staged in South Africa this season.

Only eight horses have accepted for the 1800-metre feature, but there is no shortage of quality among them. The field includes defending champion Gladatorian, Cape Town Met winner See It Again, L’Ormarins King’s Plate winner The Real Prince and fellow Group One performers Eight On Eighteen and Dave The King.

The change from handicap conditions in the Durban July to weight-for-age racing is an important factor.

Three-year-olds dominated the Durban July after receiving a significant pull in the weights from the older horses. That advantage disappears on Sunday, giving the established weight-for-age performers an opportunity to reassert themselves.

Gladatorian will attempt to win the race for a second consecutive year after producing a powerful late finish to claim the 2025 edition.

His preparation has followed a remarkably similar path this season. The six-year-old entered last year’s Champions Cup after finishing seventh in the Durban July and arrives this time following the same finishing position in the 2200-metre feature.

Gladatorian carried 61.5 kilograms in this year’s Durban July and was beaten five lengths after racing in midfield. He now returns to a course and distance where he has won from his only previous attempt.

That proven Greyville record makes him one of the leading contenders, although his earlier meeting with several of Sunday’s rivals in the Group One Gold Challenge may provide the most important form reference.

Legal Counsel finished second to Questioning over 1600 metres that day, with Gladatorian running third. The Justin Snaith-trained four-year-old raced on the speed and was denied by only the narrowest of margins, while finishing two lengths ahead of Gladatorian.

Legal Counsel then led the Durban July field at a strong tempo before weakening to finish 12th. The early work and demanding 2200-metre distance appeared to take their toll, rather than the performance representing his true level of ability.

The return to 1800 metres should suit, while the move back to weight-for-age conditions provides him with an opportunity to reproduce his Gold Challenge performance.

Legal Counsel has already shown that he belongs at this level. He finished runner-up to stablemate See It Again in the Cape Town Met earlier in the season and has won his only previous start over 1800 metres.

See It Again is the highest-rated runner in the field and remains one of South Africa’s most accomplished middle-distance horses.

The six-year-old defeated Legal Counsel in the Cape Town Met before adding another 2000-metre victory at Turffontein in April. His latest appearance came in the Gold Challenge, where he started ahead of several of Sunday’s rivals in the market but finished eighth after enduring a difficult passage through the race.

He is entitled to improve over the longer distance and arrives fresh after bypassing the Durban July. However, his Greyville record is an interesting consideration. He has placed in all three starts over the course and distance without winning, while many of his strongest performances have come at Kenilworth and Turffontein.

Snaith also saddles Eight On Eighteen, Legal Counsel and the lightly weighted Malmesbury Missile, giving the stable half of the field.

Eight On Eighteen has not won since May 2025 but remains capable of producing a major performance on his best form. He finished runner-up in last year’s Durban July and reunites with Richard Fourie, who has ridden him to all five of his career victories.

His recent Gold Challenge run was disappointing, but the step up from 1600 to 1800 metres should be more suitable.

The Real Prince is another runner with the credentials to win.

He defeated See It Again, Eight On Eighteen and Gladatorian in the King’s Plate at Kenilworth in January before finishing third behind See It Again and Legal Counsel in the Cape Town Met. His two runs at Greyville this campaign have been solid without being outstanding, but trainer Dean Kannemeyer has reportedly had the Champions Cup as his main target.

Dave The King adds further depth to the contest. He has won over the Greyville 1800-metre course and distance, although he will need to improve sharply after finishing down the field over 1200 metres in the Post Merchants Stakes.

Main Defender and Malmesbury Missile complete the field, with the latter receiving 1.5 kilograms from his older rivals as the only three-year-old engaged.

The Champions Cup has regularly influenced South Africa’s end-of-season honours, and this year’s edition should be no different.

Gladatorian has the ideal course profile, See It Again brings the highest rating and The Real Prince has already defeated several of these horses at Group One level.

However, the Gold Challenge appears the key form line.

Legal Counsel finished ahead of every rival he meets on Sunday in that race and his Durban July performance can be forgiven after he went too quickly in front over a longer distance.

Back to 1800 metres and returning to weight-for-age conditions, he gets the opportunity to bounce back and claim his first Group One victory. By Scott Bailey – iRACE

The barrier draw for the second edition of the RM1,000,000 4YO Selangor Mile has arguably created more questions than answers as predicting the winner has become more challenging following Tuesday’s barrier draw. The race has become more open with several of the pre-draw main fancies drawing wide in the 16-horse lineup. The four place-getters in the 4YO Sprint Championship will be stepping up to the more lucrative mile version with DUMA (10) (Br1) fairing best with the draw. PACIFIC ENERGY (1) (Br6), who won the sprint, steps up to 1600m for the first time while BANKER’S HAPPY (6) (Br8) has drawn best of the Banker’s Stable contingent. G1 Tunku Gold Cup winner FORTUNE TREE (2), which finished 2nd in the sprint, will have to contend with barrier 15 after scratchings second up from a spell. The Banker’s Stable, reeling from their 3YO Mile Championship success with Banker’s Boss last Sunday, will have five representatives including three last-start winners which have drawn deep. BANKER’S SMILE (3) (Br14) has struck form at the right time with three successive victories and a good record over the journey (4:2-0-0). BANKER’S KINGDOM (4) is also a two-time winner at the mile and has been a consistent performer for the Banker’s string this year. BANKER’S HONOR (5) (Br16) may have been the pick of the Banker’s quintet pre draw but will require plenty of luck from the outside gate. BANKER’S HONOR (5) has won three from five locally, including his dominant 2.25-length win over stable mate BANKER’S KINGDOM (4) on June 6 and his 1600m record (4-2-1-0) stands him in good stead also. Despite his first run at the mile, the previously mentioned BANKER’S HAPPY (6) reeled off a fast sectional when resuming in the 1200m 4YO Sprint Championship and was a 1500m winner prior to spelling. The Simon Dunderdale pair of ANJOU CROWN (11) and NAVARRE (12) finished 1st and 2nd respectively in an 1100m Class 2 contest two weeks back. ANJOU CROWN (11) has risen to prominence very quickly after breaking its maiden tag in a Class 3 earlier this month prior to winning on the upgrade over 1600m. NAVARRE (12) led and set a fast pace on that occasion so providing he relaxes better in the run, a top three placing is not out of the question. Both horses will be partnered by Australian jockeys Liam Riordan and Jett Stanley, who took out the G2 Adelaide Cup back in May, makes his Malaysia riding debut this weekend. Trainer Frank Maynard teams up with the RC Stable as DUMA and TREES OF VALINOR (15) have both drawn well in one and three respectively. DUMA (10) is yet to win from three attempts at the trip but worked home well when placed 6th behind ANJOU CROWN (11) last start and will be reunited with inform hoop Bernardo Pinheiro. TREES OF VALINOR (15), winner of the 2025 3YO Mile Championship, has been prepared to the minute and judging by his recent 3rd to ANJOU CROWN (11), the gelding is on track to win another aged feature. No doubt the sleeping giant is a galloper which has progressed nicely and remains unbeaten in three race track appearances. The Lawson Moy-trained CHOICE IS MINE (9) arrived with a New Zealand maiden win to its credit and has since taken out successive Max Two Stakes races in Malaysia. He defeated fellow Selangor Mile combatants NAVARRE (12) and AQUITAINE (14) on his local debut back in May by three lengths and from the good draw, will attract plenty of market support. 4YO Selangor Mile Selections: (9) CHOICE IS MINE (6) BANKER’S HAPPY (12) NAVARRE (15) TREES OF VALINOR FORTUNE RISING (1) appears ideally handicapped to win the RM100,000 Trinity Selangor Silver (1300m) (Race 6) and enters Sunday’s semi feature as the highest rated performer with 86 points, 15 points clear of his nearest rival FRIGHT on 71. FORTUNE RISING (1) dominated in his race track return with a resounding 4.25-length win against Class 2 company a fortnight ago. The gelding not only maintained his local unbeaten record of three from three but also provided rookie apprentice WH Lim with his first victory. JINLING STARBLITZ (7), emergency runner for the Selangor Mile, cannot be left from calculations following successive wins back in April and June. Coming off an unplaced effort in the 4YO Sprint Championship last start, the gelding has the potential to pick up more races in the future and will have to be at his peak to strike on Sunday. KOONDAKAARA (8) draws the pole and was a recent runner-up to Mile aspirant Choice Is Mine two starts back prior to finishing 2nd again as a beaten favorite in a Class 2 contest on July 5. BANKER’S BEAUTIFUL (3) is rarely far off the mark and looks better suited returning to her own age group, while SECRET WONDER (4) was well supported to win at Class 4A level last month, his first victory since taking out the Singapore Pools Trophy (Ipoh Version) in November last year. Trinity Selangor Silver Selections: (1) FORTUNE RISING (7) JINLING STARBLITZ (8) KOONDAKAARA (3) BANKER’S BEAUTIFUL

Race 3 No.3 AFTERMATH A talented type who has found Class 4 company beyond him in recent starts, but the drop back to Class 5 is a major positive. He has not raced at this level since October 2024, when he defeated Golden Dash by just over four lengths. He is getting on in age, but his previous form in this grade demands respect. With the significant class relief, he is capable of producing a much stronger performance. Race 4 No.4 SUPERB WINNER He gets another good opportunity to break through for his maiden victory after being freshened since his latest run 110 days ago. His recent Selangor trial was encouraging, with the gelding moving nicely without being asked to do too much. His second placing in February reads particularly well, having finished behind Navarre, who is considered a genuine chance in the Selangor Mile. That form gives him a strong platform here and he should be ready to run well fresh. Race 5 No.2 SOUSUI Keeping him to the sprint distances appears to be the right approach. From a wide barrier last start, he was pressured through the early stages but continued to travel strongly, while the runner sitting outside him weakened to finish last. The 1200m should pose no concern and he looks capable of maintaining his recent form. With a more economical run, he should again prove difficult to beat. Race 8 No.1 FIGHT TO WIN He made things difficult for himself last start, over racing after being shuffled back into a midfield position. He never appeared comfortable through the first half of the race, but there was still plenty to like about the way he finished off over the final 400m. His best performances have come when allowed to roll forward. Securing an early position will be important and could bring significant improvement.

The Group One King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes has assembled a field worthy of its position as one of the great weight-for-age contests on the international calendar. Run over 2400 metres at Ascot this Saturday, the £2 million feature brings together established champions, Classic winners and two fascinating Japanese challengers in what shapes as the strongest middle-distance race staged this season. Defending champion Calandagan will attempt to win the race for a second consecutive year, while 2024 winner Goliath and last year’s runner-up Kalpana bring proven Ascot form in the contest.

The younger generation is also well represented. Last season’s Derby winner Lambourn and Oaks winner Minnie Hauk are among the major names, while Irish Derby winner Benvenuto Cellini receives an important weight advantage against the older horses. However, much of the international attention will fall on Japanese star Masquerade Ball, who has made the long journey from Tokyo to Newmarket alongside fellow Japanese contender Wurttemberg. Masquerade Ball has been based at James Horton’s Beech Hurst Stables after travelling to Britain through Alaska and Amsterdam. Trainer Takahisa Tezuka has reported that the entire journey went smoothly and that his stable star has settled into his new surroundings better than expected. The four-year-old has been seen exercising on Newmarket’s Long Hill and appears to have handled the change in environment without any concern.

Tezuka believes Masquerade Ball has made significant physical and mental progress since his three-year-old season. The trainer has described him as considerably bigger and stronger and feels there may still be further improvement to come. That assessment makes his return to 2400 metres particularly interesting. Masquerade Ball recorded his biggest victory in the 2000-metre Tenno Sho Autumn before producing a memorable performance in last November’s Japan Cup. He went down by only a head to Calandagan after the pair separated themselves from the field in a thrilling finish. That performance earned both horses a rating of 128, placing them among the highest-rated racehorses in the world during 2025. Masquerade Ball has raced only once this season, finishing one length behind Hong Kong champion Romantic Warrior in the Group One FWD QEII Cup at Sha Tin in April. Tezuka was encouraged by how well the horse recovered from that performance, particularly after he had shown signs of fatigue following his demanding Japan Cup campaign. The trainer has indicated that Masquerade Ball continued to thrive after Hong Kong and believes he is now better equipped to handle 2400 metres. While Tezuka previously considered 2000 metres his ideal distance, the horse’s continued development has given the stable confidence that a mile and a half may now be even more suitable. Ascot will present a very different challenge to the generally flatter racecourses found in Japan. The undulating track, downhill sections and demanding run to the finish will test Masquerade Ball’s balance and stamina, but his connections believe he has the ability to overcome those obstacles. Regular rider Christophe Lemaire will again take the mount as Masquerade Ball attempts to reverse the narrow Japan Cup result with Calandagan. Although that rematch provides one of the major storylines, Tezuka is under no illusion about the overall strength of the race. The trainer has stressed that the challenge extends well beyond Calandagan, with several Group One winners capable of producing a performance good enough to win. Masquerade Ball’s owner Teruya Yoshida has long held an ambition to have a runner at Ascot and encouraged the stable to target the King George following the horse’s performances last season.

Tezuka regards Masquerade Ball as the best horse he has trained, placing him ahead of former stable star and multiple Group One winner Fierement. More importantly, he believes the colt may still have another level to reach despite already establishing himself among the world’s leading performers. The King George will be the biggest test of his career, but it also provides Japanese racing with another opportunity to claim one of the few major international prizes that has so far remained out of reach. With former winners, Classic champions and elite visitors from Japan all converging on Ascot, Saturday’s feature has all the ingredients to become one of the defining races of the season. By Scott Bailey – iRACE

Jockey Richard Fourie has some very good mounts this Friday and the pick of them could be Kleinzee, who runs in Race 5, a MR 76 Handicap over 1600m. The meeting is carded to be run on the turf and it is worth noting that Kleinzee has won her last four starts, and they were all on the Polytrack. The Gimmethegreenlight filly has won all four of those starts since joining trainer Alan Greeff, and they have been full of merit. Kleinzee did win twice on the grass earlier in her career, so that should calm those fears. She does, however, continue to add to her merit rating with those wins and is at a career-high mark of 90. She will be giving weight to all her rivals. Fourie has sat on the four-year-old filly twice and won both times. The feature of the afternoon is Race 7, the Champion Juvenile Cup (Listed), and of the eight runners carded, trainer Alan Greeff has five of them, Dean Smith has two and Kelly Mitchley has a sole entrant. Greeff, having five runners, would suggest that the best of them could be Chatterbox, with Richard Fourie possibly on the right one. This well-bred filly has only had two starts so far. The Canford Cliffs filly was well backed to win on debut in a feature race. Inexperience was shown and she proved no match on the day for unbeaten Marchland. That was back in March and Chatterbox was next seen when scoring very easily on the Polytrack in May over 1000m. Chatterbox quickened nicely that day and the runner-up has won since. Fourie has been aboard all five of the Greeff winners, so he will have a good idea of who is the best of them and how he can get the best out of Chatterbox. Rival and Champion Jockey-elect Craig Zackey has also ridden and won on both of the Smith-trained runners, and he rides Global Thriller and not Just Carter. That is a very interesting choice, as Just Carter quickened nicely last time out and should contest the finish yet again. Jockey Andrew Fortune likes upstaging his more fancied stable companions, so one must take note of his ride, Gimmethatworldcup. The gelding impressed when winning his second start and could be anything. Clive Robinson

The well-travelled gelding got back to winning ways last time out.

Connections of Calandagan are confident their superstar gelding is back to his brilliant best as he tries to add a second King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes to his glittering collection of international prizes.

Don’t be fooled by the “Work Riders Raceday” tag.

Thursday’s seven-race Vaal meeting is far from a novelty. These meetings regularly reward punters who recognise that stable knowledge, horse familiarity and rider-horse chemistry can often outweigh exposed form.

Work Riders Racedays are dedicated to the experienced stable staff who do the hard work behind the scenes, giving them the opportunity to showcase their riding ability while competing for recognition, prize money and, in some cases, launching future careers in the saddle. For punters, they are often among the most rewarding meetings on the calendar.

Three riders stand out as the day’s strongest betting prospects – reigning Champion Work Rider Phenisile Mongqawa, consistent performer Chamu Mabaya, and in-form Savanna Valjalo, who won the only Work Riders race at Turffontein last week.

Mongqawa looks to hold the key aboard Astrophile in Race 2 over 1000m. The Tony Peter-trained daughter of Heavenly Blue caught the eye when finishing a promising second on debut over this course and distance after attracting strong market support, eventually starting at 9-4 after opening at 15-2.

That effort suggested the confidence was well placed and natural improvement should make her difficult to beat. Mongqawa’s partnership with the Peter stable is another major positive. Their last 13 combinations have produced four winners and four placings, highlighting a profitable association built on stable confidence rather than coincidence.

If Astrophile runs to expectations, she shapes as the standout banker on the programme.

Mabaya, meanwhile, continues to deliver whenever given competitive opportunities, boasting an impressive 22% winning strike-rate. He looks capable of adding another success aboard Royale Jacket in Race 5 over 1500m.

The son of Ideal World can be forgiven his latest run over an inadequate 1160m. His previous two starts over 1500m both produced placings and the return to his preferred distance should bring about a much-improved performance.

Valjalo can continue her good form in Race 6 aboard Be All You Can Be, one of the more interesting runners on the card despite two disappointing recent outings.

The Fabian Habib-trained daughter of Vercingetorix made an encouraging debut when runner-up over 1400m before failing to build on that promise in her next two starts. Still lightly raced, she now drops back to 1300m with first-time blinkers, a combination that could spark significant improvement. If the headgear has the desired effect, Valjalo could take advantage aboard a filly that still appears to have more ability than her recent form suggests.

Work Riders meetings often reward punters prepared to trust stable confidence over conventional form, and Thursday’s Vaal programme looks no different.

  Clive Robinson

Rising Australian jockey Jett Stanley will achieve another important career milestone when he makes his international riding debut in Malaysia’s RM1 million Selangor Mile at Selangor Turf Club on Sunday. The 22-year-old Victorian will partner the Simon Dunderdale-trained Navarre in the 1600-metre feature, which has attracted many of Malaysia’s leading four-year-olds. Stanley has enjoyed a breakthrough period in Australia, highlighted by the biggest win of his career aboard American Wolf in the Group 2 Adelaide Cup at Morphettville in March. American Wolf edged out Highland Bling in a thrilling finish to the 3200-metre feature, although Stanley was unaware he had won until being informed by the medical team after being dislodged shortly beyond the winning post. The victory completed a memorable three-day period in which he also rode winners at Murray Bridge and Stony Creek. His Adelaide Cup success followed another major staying victory aboard Asva in the Group 3 Launceston Cup, when the $31 chance swept around the field before racing clear over 2400 metres. Stanley has continued to build momentum through regular metropolitan success. By late April, he had already ridden 35 winners nationally during the season, including 26 in Victoria, and had recorded four victories from a sequence of 10 rides. Now established as a senior jockey after completing his apprenticeship in 2025, Stanley has passed 200 career winners and accumulated more than $10 million in prize money. His first international opportunity has come through fellow Victorian jockey Liam Riordan, who is currently riding in Malaysia and has formed a successful association with leading trainer Simon Dunderdale. “Look, I got very fortunate. Obviously, one of my great mates, Liam Riordan, is over there at the moment,” Stanley said. “He’s over there riding for Simon, and I was able to get the opportunity through that. “I was just very fortunate with the timing and everything. I was able to pick up the ride along with a few other bookings on the day, put myself into the position to take the opportunity and hopefully capitalise on it.” Stanley is no stranger to Malaysian racing, despite Sunday being his first experience riding outside Australia. His father, Group 1-winning jockey and trainer Brent Stanley, previously rode in Malaysia, while the younger Stanley has also followed the local racing closely through Riordan and other friends based in the country. “I’ve watched a fair bit of it with Liam over there,” he said. “Obviously, Dad used to ride there when I was a lot younger, so I’ve got a little bit of background towards it and a lot of great friends who are over there currently or have been there for a lot of years.” Stanley will fly in after his commitments at Caulfield on Saturday to ride Navarre, who has drawn barrier 11 in the Selangor Mile field. Stablemates Anjou Crown and Aquitaine will also represent Dunderdale, with Riordan booked for Anjou Crown and CC Wong taking the ride on Aquitaine. Navarre enters the feature after a strong second-place finish behind Anjou Crown over 1600 metres at his latest appearance. While Stanley will be relying on information from the stable rather than having ridden the gelding previously, he believes the performance showed Navarre is approaching the race in good condition. “His last start was super,” Stanley said. “He galloped up quite well, from what I’ve been told by everyone involved, he’s going well for it. “Obviously, he ran second last start to the stablemate, who is also in the race, but he was very, very gallant in defeat. Hopefully, he can turn the tables.” Navarre is expected to race prominently and will need to find a suitable position from the middle-to-wide barrier. The four-year-old is one of three Dunderdale runners in the race, with the stable hoping its strength in numbers can help overcome the difficult draws. Stanley’s visit will extend beyond Sunday’s feature meeting, giving him an opportunity to experience Malaysian racing and spend time with several familiar faces. “I’m going to be over there until Tuesday, so I’ll have a few days in the warm weather,” he said. “Hopefully, it’s going to be really good.” For a young jockey already building an impressive résumé in Australia, Sunday represents an opportunity to announce himself on another stage. “It’s my first time riding internationally,” Stanley said. “Hopefully, it goes well.” By Scott Bailey – iRACE

The highest-rated race on Wednesday’s Hollywoodbets Scottsville card is the Progress Plate over 1200m, where Exocet looks the one to beat.

The Mehmas colt appears capable of rising above his current rating. He showed an impressive turn of foot when winning over 1000m on the poly at his third start and should appreciate the step up in trip. Although returning from a nine-month break, this distance may help him overcome the absence. Stablemate Esteemed is also promising after finishing a two-length second in the Gr 2 TAB SA Nursery. Despite being rated 14 points higher than Exocet, he receives 3kg and has Richard Fourie aboard. He returns from a 16-month layoff, but the Mike and Mathew de Kock stable should have both runners fit enough to perform well.

Amelia’s Legacy has plenty of class and her recent disappointing efforts can be attributed to losing confidence following a starting stall incident. The drop back to 1200m could help her rediscover her best form and she carries a feather weight. The Last Duke is race-fit and could upset the more fancied runners, all of whom have questions to answer, while Good For You, a Gr 2 winner, has the class to feature and may appreciate the shorter trip.

The first leg of the Pick 6 over 1400m looks competitive. Trombolines should appreciate the distance in his third run after a layoff and jumps from pole position. El Dante has class and is expected to improve from his latest outing over an ideal course and distance, while Next Of Kin is consistent and should be in the finish.

In Race 5 over 1750m, Black Platina is better than her latest run and can bounce back over a suitable course and distance with Craig Zackey aboard. Chaos Queen can feature if reproducing her latest effort, while Takethegreenlight has claims despite a difficult draw.

The sixth race sees talented Showgirl return from an eight-month break. She could still prove well ahead of the handicapper off a rating of 76. Xenophon has been disappointing of late but has the ability to bounce back, while Gorgeous Guy is another capable runner seeking improvement.

In Race 8 over 1200m, Hah Lah Lah looks progressive and can make it three wins from four starts. Best Of All and Kalahari Roller are obvious dangers, while Masterofthedesert could still be ahead of the handicapper after his KZN debut win. Military Command also has plenty of ability.

In Race 9, Rags To Riches impressed when winning second time out and the form has worked out well. She is preferred ahead of Sovereign Gem and Lady Jean.

Earlier on the card, Prized Possession looks capable of shedding her maiden in Race 3, Cartel Queen has the form to go close in Race 2, and Egolee can go one better after an encouraging debut in the opener.

  David Thiselton

Multiple Group One winning trainer, Frank Maynard is a chance of adding another trophy to the mantlepiece with the RM200,000 3YO Mile Championship (Race 9) to be contested on Sunday. The affable conditioner tasted success in this race last year with Trees Of Valinor and will be entering Sunday’s listed feature with the highly talented and inform New Zealand-bred MEGA SKYE (7). MEGA SKYE (7), for the Mega Captain Stable owners, has already posted two wins from seven starts and possesses a sharp turn of acceleration as indicated in both winning performances and the rise to the mile for the first time should not pose a problem. The gelding treated his Class 4 rivals with contempt last start and is capable of rising through the grades. The Mega Captain Stable will also be represented by recent winners MEGA MAXIMUS (6) and MEGA FIRST (13), which is only one of two runners which have scored over the mile previously. MEGA MAXIMUS (6) is another galloper with a powerful sprint and closed off well to finish third over 1500m last start. The grey gelding’s versatility is his main asset as he can normally relax in the run and accelerate off a genuine speed. The wide draw could be a hinderance but with luck in running, he can provide the value. FORTUNE BANKER’S (12) and MEGA FIRST (13) are the only runners with previous success over the mile. However, FORTUNE BANKER’S (12) will need to improve on his local debut where he faded to finish unplaced in a 1600m Class 3 won by Anjou Crown a fortnight ago. MEGA FIRST (13) has drawn well in gate four and actually started equal favourite with FORTUNE BANKER’S (12) when placed 2nd in that same race. MEGA FIRST (13) has done a good job considering he won a lowly maiden on debut back in January when he was known as Mirage Pegasus at the time. The gelding has matured since the name change and keeps improving with race experience. From the favorable draw with inform jockey Bernardo Pinheiro aboard, they will be a force to be reckoned with. Leading owners, the Banker’s Stable will have strong representation with five runners engaged, including the highest rated performer in BANKER’S BOSS (1) which heads the weights with 59kg. The gelding has stamped himself as the class runner in the field following a recent Class 3 win followed by a third placing in the 1200m 3YO Sprint Championship. He over-raced last start when finishing unplaced but pole position will suit as is drawn to receive the perfect trail. BANKER’S WARRIOR (3), 5th in the 3YO SC from a wide barrier, was placed at Class 3 level two weeks ago and like stable mate BANKER’S BOSS (1), the blinkers have been removed and replaced with the visor. The outsider to watch is SILENT MOVE (9), which failed on local debut but caught the eye when going down by a head in a 1400m Class 3 contest last Sunday. The former Australian galloper has only a maiden win to its credit but should pick up its share of races in the country. 3YO Mile Championship Selections: (7) MEGA SKYE (13) MEGA FIRST (9) SILENT MOVE (1) BANKER’S BOSS Although it is not a feature race on Sunday’s card, the 1400m Supreme A contest (Race 11) contains some quality performers which includes three of the top four rated horses in the country. The highly talented PLATINIUM EMPEROR (1) (115 pts) heads the weights and maintained his excellent first up record with a resounding victory in the 1200m KRA Trophy on June 14. The former Wilyah Silver Bowl winner has scored on five occasions from ten starts locally in an illustrious career which also includes eight victories in Macau. ANTIPODEAN (2) (110 pts) is a distance specialist with six wins from eight starts at 1400m and returned to his best form when winning the Listed 1600m A-Plus Cup on June 28. The one-time Group winner will once again be partnered by Bernardo Pinheiro who has ben successful aboard the gelding seven times. BANKER’S TWO SIX (4) has been the most progressive galloper on the Malaysian circuit this year climbing to 94 points and rated 7th in the country. The five year old may have went harder than expected when attempting to maintain the lead before winding up 4th in the A-Plus Cup last start. However, BANKER’S TWO SIX (4) has lowered the colours of ANTIPODEAN (2) previously which occurred in the 1600m Chairman’s Trophy back in May so the gelding could bounce back without surprising. Three-time Group One winner, LUCKY MAGIC (3) (98 pts) will make his long awaited return to the race track and looks on target following his sharp trial at the end of last month. The five year old was without a doubt Malaysia’s premier performer last year which included wins in the G1 Selangor Gold Cup and G1 Perak Derby. This year’s G1 Selangor Gold Cup will be on the gelding’s agenda in September when his resumption to racing commences from the seven month break. Race 11 Selections: (2) ANTIPODEAN (1) PLATINUM EMPEROR (4) BANKER’S TWO SIX (3) LUCKY MAGIC

Hollywoodbets Scottsville stages a competitive meeting on Sunday, with Buddy Boy shaping as one of the day’s better bets in Race 7, a Class 4 handicap over 1600m.

The Mike and Mathew de Kock-trained gelding finished a solid third behind the useful Fortress Of Fire in a polytrack sprint last time and should relish the return to turf over a more suitable trip. He looks the horse to beat and a strong banker for exotic bets. Fast And Free is the main threat after tackling longer distances of late and should appreciate the drop back in trip. Gareth van Zyl saddles I Am Invictus, narrowly beaten over this course and distance last time, and Wiccan Warrior, who improved when runner-up in blinkers.

The De Kock stable could also strike in the opener with well-bred debutantes Ibhola Lomlilo and Sparrow Man, although experienced runners Dancing Party, Mekong, and Pacific Mood bring solid form into the race.

Steamy Windows can get the Bi-Pot off to a winning start. Mike Miller’s runner has been racing in feature company since shedding his maiden and drops into easier company. Progressive Kid From The South, filly Tyme To Talk, and well-supported maiden Omkhulu Boss all have claims.

The first leg of the Place Accumulator is competitive. Theleia makes her local debut for Andre Nel after a short break and has useful Cape form. Lovecomesknocking has been improving steadily and was narrowly beaten over course and distance last time. Indignation benefits from a 4kg claim, while consistent Gimme The Power can earn another cheque.

Highveld visitor Give Me A Chance has champion-elect Craig Zackey aboard and looks capable of making an impact. Old Harry Rocks should improve from his encouraging debut, while Bai Yulu and Hadrian’s Wall also have winning prospects.

The fillies’ Middle Stakes is wide open. Tulip Fields carries top weight but arrives in good form after a recent win over the distance. Ladyofdistinction returns to a more suitable trip, while De Vlugge bids for a fifth straight victory after dominating on the polytrack. Miss World also commands respect.

Lucinda Woodruff’s Hop Hop Spinnekop was narrowly beaten over course and distance last time and can go close again. Taylor’s Version, drawn ideally, has improved since the return of blinkers, while stablemate Lilac In Winter has solid claims with a claiming apprentice aboard.

In Race 8, Flamethrower looks well treated after contesting stronger company on his first run out of the maidens. Iron Will, Lunch Money, and Diamond Maker are the main dangers.

The finale could see Arverni Princess complete four straight wins over this course and distance. Fleur De Ling, now 1kg better off after finishing close behind her last time, poses the biggest threat, while Captain Ventura and Ruby Rising also deserve consideration.