Golden Slipper Day: Stars Align for Racing’s Biggest Two-Year-Old Showdown
The highly anticipated Golden Slipper Day at Rosehill Gardens is upon us, promising one of the most thrilling and prestigious days in global racing. With five Group 1s lighting up the track, it’s an unmissable racing event for fans across the world!
The highlight of the day is the Golden Slipper, the richest prize in two-year-old racing, featuring a field of the 16 best young horses in the region. Wodeton, tipped as the early favourite before even making his debut, will look to finally live up to the hype, with powerhouse connections including Coolmore Stud, legendary trainer Chris Waller, and the world’s best jockey, James McDonald, in his corner. With a favourable draw in barrier 2, Wodeton looks set to shine although he’ll need to be at his best after suffering two defeats in his recent starts, despite valid excuses. He faces stiff competition in a race that promises no easy victories.
Taking him on is the undefeated Rivellino, trained by Kris Lees and ridden by the incomparable Hugh Bowman, who returns from Hong Kong to mount a challenge from barrier 3. Bowman, will bring his trademark confidence and expertise to this thrilling contest on a horse that hasn’t been beaten home by one horse in his career to date.
The fillies have been leading the charge this season, with Bjorn Baker’s Within The Law standing out as a top contender. Baker has been on fire this year, training winners at a blistering strike rate. SKY Racing’s form expert Brad Gray teams up with Kiersten Duke to offer an in-depth race preview and provide their expert insights on who will take home the coveted prize. To help you make sense of the action, Brad has also crafted a detailed speed map to show how the runners are likely to line up.
March 23 Selangor Preview
Malaysian racing makes its return to Selangor on Sunday, March 23rd, with an exciting 12-race card and highly competitive action expected throughout the day.
Seven-year-old galloper OUR SECRET WEAPON looks primed to claim the major prize in the 1020m Class 4 contest at Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.
Having arrived with consistent form from Singapore, OUR SECRET WEAPON has maintained that standard since joining the in-form Nick Selvan stable. The gelding has recorded one win and three minor placings from six Malaysian starts, including a breakthrough victory in Class 4 company over 1200m on February 2.
A reliable beginner, OUR SECRET WEAPON is expected to be prominent from the outset in a race that lacks early pace. With two placings over Sunday’s track and distance, and the stable coming off a winning double last weekend, he should prove to be the one to beat.
In the opening event, seven-year-old KHAO MANEE piques plenty of interest. Last seen finishing fifth at Kranji on Grand Singapore Gold Cup Day last October, he was forced to settle off the speed and attacked the line strongly late in a slowly run 1600m race.
Resuming after a 169-day break, he has trialled well and looks capable of making a winning start to his Malaysian racing career in Class 5B.
There was hidden merit in LIM’S CRAFT’s fifth-place finish at Supreme B level last time out. After overcoming a slow start and being urged early to stay in touch with the field, he finished strongly in the straight, closing to within four lengths over 1200m. With a clean jump, he is poised to make amends in Race 7.
Ben Thompson covets BMW Hong Kong Derby joy on Bundle Award
Eager to repay owner and trainer loyalty, Ben Thompson aims to complete a remarkable chapter in his career when Bundle Award chases victory in the HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) at Sha Tin on Sunday (23 March).
Thompson clinched the mount on Bundle Award with a patient and perfectly-timed ride on the Shamus Award gelding over 1800m at Sha Tin on 9 March to secure a crucial rise in the handicap to 86 and a place in the Derby field.
“It’s an amazing opportunity and I’m very grateful to his owner, Colin Lo, and John Size for the opportunity,” Thompson said. “To pick up the ride on him last time after riding him in his first start here, he was a horse that I was very, very hopeful of getting back on and to do that and to win and be in Hong Kong’s biggest race is a huge thrill.
“He was fantastic last time and it came as no surprise, given his credentials before landing in Hong Kong, his win two starts prior and runs behind some nice horses in each of his five runs here. There were plenty of merit to all of those performances.”
Ridden quietly last start, Bundle Award steamed home over the final 400m in 22.11s to down fellow BMW Hong Kong Derby aspirants Markwin (second) and Lo Rider (fourth) and, after drawing barrier nine this weekend, Thompson could adopt similar tactics on Sunday.
“Unlike most draws leading into a feature race, I really wasn’t too concerned. I’m not sure how John Size or connections were thinking or hopeful for, but I think he showed off his turn of foot the other day, it’s not essential to draw a certain alley,” Thompson said.
“Barrier nine’s nice. Actually, it’s funny on the way over I said to my wife Steph that I just want a number that feels lucky and my brother’s born on the 9th, so hopefully that brings us some luck.”
Echoing Thompson’s hopes of maiden BMW Hong Kong Derby success is his Australian compatriot Brenton Avdulla, who partners HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) victor Rubylot from barrier four.
“He begins, switches off and he’s got a change-up speed, so he’s got three brilliant things going for him. It will be interesting to see how he handles the 2000m – I think he will (handle it),” Avdulla said.
“He’s a lovely-moving horse and the way he finished in the Classic Cup should hold him in good stead for the 2000m. Anyone who comes to Hong Kong wants to win a Derby, so it would be a massive thrill.
“Obviously, California Spangle has been a pin-up horse for me since I’ve been here, but Rubylot is getting there and if he can win a Hong Kong Derby, it would be very special.”
Bundle Award and Rubylot face 12 rivals in the third and final leg of the HK$52 million Four-Year-Old Classic Series – My Wish, Johannes Brahms, Stunning Peach, Packing Angel, Mickley, Noisy Boy, Cap Ferrat, Steps Ahead, Californiatotality, Markwin, Lo Rider and Beauty Alliance.
Seven-time champion jockey Zac Purton took another crucial step forward in his return to race riding this morning (Friday, 21 March) when he partnered Ka Ying Rising to an impressive 1200m barrier trial win on dirt at Sha Tin.
Sitting in second place until well into the straight, the world’s highest-rated sprinter cruised past Sword Point to win by one and three-quarter lengths in 1m 10.24s ahead of his start in the HK$5.35 million G2 Sprint Cup (1200m) at Sha Tin on 30 March.
“I wouldn’t say I’m fully recovered, but I’m a long way down the track,” Purton said. “I’m gearing up for a return next week. (Ka Ying Rising) just did what we expect from him this morning – he just keeps improving all the time.
“He seems to do it easier all the time. His mental attitude, he seems to be handling it better all the time. He enjoyed himself. I’m looking forward to the races ahead.”
Subject to a medical clearance, Purton is expected to have a full book of rides on his return, including Galaxy Patch in the HK$5.35 million G2 Chairman’s Trophy (1600m). Purton guided Pierre Ng’s galloper into second place behind He Was You in this morning’s second batch of trials.
Sunday’s (23 March) BMW Hong Kong Derby Day meeting starts with the Class 4 Luger Handicap (1400m) at 1pm. The BMW Hong Kong Derby is carded as Race 7 and will be run at 4.05pm.
By Leo Schlink
Narina Trogon is ready to fly
The Kings Cup to be run over a mile at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Sunday is always a reminder that South Africa’s Champions Season is on the horizon and with a healthy stake on offer it is an opportunity for some to warm up their engines and for others, possibly lessor lights, to grab a slice of the stake before the big guns are in action.
Narina Trogon and Formagear fall into the latter category although they may still prove me wrong.
On current form there was not much more than a head separating the pair when last they met in the Fever Tree Handicap at Hollywoodbets Scottsville. Mike Miller’s runner was finishing his race off the better of the pair to snaffle third close home and as they meet on the same weight terms and jumping off alongside of each other there should not be much between them again with Narina Trogon just earning the nod.
Tienie Prinsloo is never afraid to pit his fillies against males and Miss Platina won well enough last start and escaped the handicappers. She has another light weight and Muzi Yeni stays aboard which is always a bonus. Gladatorian is the class horse in the race but has not been out since December. Stuart Ferrie’s charge will have bigger fish to fry come Champions Season but he is not without a chance.
There is an early start to the meeting with a ten-race programme and the first off at 11.40, a Maiden Juvenile Plate over 1400m. Gotta Go Eddie was sent out a short-priced favourite on debut but had to play second fiddle to the Michael Roberts-trained Fortress Of Fire who looks to be at least useful at this stage.
The step up in trip should suit Gotta Go Eddie and barring a ‘springer’ he should get the meeting off to a winning start.
In the second, Broadway Girl showed up nicely first run back from a short break and Stuart Ferrie’s mare goes well this trip. Palermo has been improving steadily and is seldom far back. This trip should suit although he has it all to do at the weights. Shoot The Rapids has been rested and gelded and although the class horse in the race he will probably need this outing over a trip well short of his best.
Bad Medicine has his first run for Alyson Wright and comes with some useful Highveld form where he has been well supported in the market. Gavin Lerena stays with the ride which is a bonus. Silver Platter returns from a break but is lightly raced and he has improved at recent outings while Fire Force has not been far back at his last two and can improve on his last run when returning from a short break.
JP’s Palace has yet to run a bad race for Darryl Moore but has a fair weight to shoulder in the opening leg of the Pick 6. However he will benefit from Rachel Venniker’s 1.5kg allowance. Arverni King seldom runs a bad race and has been knocking at the door for late. He is course and distance suited while National Dream has his third run after a break and should strip at his peak
The fifth is an open handicap but Future Saint has been improving slowly and this looks to be the right race. Animal Impact is way better than his last effort when ridden by an apprentice and has his third run after a break. Run To Rio is having his third run after a rest and has not been far back of late.
Field Marshal looked to be out of his depth in a feature last time out but ran a cracker for Frank Robinson, only being run out of it late. He takes on weaker in the sixth and has a corresponding jump in weight to contend with but has the best of the draw. Kitchakal is never far off them but got a two-point raise in the handicap for his last effort. However, he has been consistent for Duncan Howells. Of the balance, Sign Of Fate needed her last run over a sprint and can do better over this trip with a handy weight while Mascherina returns from a break but is useful and one to watch in the market although she does seem to prefer Hollywoodbets Scottsville.
In the eighth, Burning Man has been in good form since being fitted with blinkers but was a beaten favourite at his last two. He can make amends for Frikkie Greyling. Danger could be Sonata Samaritan who although taking on males has yet to run a bad race. She has taken a two-point drop in the handicap which will help her cause. Rooster Bradshaw was not far back in his handicap debut and does show some promise while The Gliding Fish is way better than his last run and steps up to a more suitable trip. He could be the surprise package.
The last leg of the Pick 6 is a tricky affair but Festival Of Magic has run two promising races since arriving in KZN. He has been dropping in the handicap and from a handy draw he should be a contender. Papa C has shown up well since returning from a break and has his third run since the lay-off. He was a close-up second last start but has drawn a little wide. Jazz Festival and Red Mountain are others to consider.
The tenth is an open sprint but Twenty One May was touched off last run and has been consistent over the distance. He has a handy galloping weight and should be a contender. Gavin Lerena replaces the apprentices aboard Connery who although drawn wide does appear to enjoy the turn to the Scottsville straight which could see him to his sixth win. Vision To Achieve is battling for her next win but has been dropping in the handicap and with only 50kg to shoulder she could finally notch her third success.
Andrew Harrison
Kotzen, Snaith yards to dominate
There is an eight-race programme at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday and both Justin Snaith and Glen Kotzen have strong form runners and could be the trainers to follow.
Snaith sends out two royally bred horses who could finally reward followers while Kotzen has the best bet on the card.
Good For You who runs in Race 2, a Maiden Juvenile Plate over 1250m, stands out as the banker on the day. The Legislate gelding earlier showed fair potential over 1000m, a distance that looked short considering his pedigree and then was beaten in a close finish by Vaughan Marshall’s smart colt Dreamworld over the more suitable 1200m.
The latter has since come out to run a cracking second in the Cape Racing Sales Slipper behind Military Command and had classy Black Cheetah and Clair De Lune among others beaten.
Good For You went on to run fourth in the Grade 3 Cape Of Good Hope Nursery. It is strong form but keep an eye out for the first-timers, although it will take a hot sort to beat him.
Kotzen-trained filly Golden Angel started off her career in decent style, running third behind Mai Sensation who dominated a good field last weekend. She went on to win with a powerful finish thereafter but then seemed to battle through a few assignments and those races looked to have to come too soon.
She is running in a wide-open 1400m heat but is taking a steep drop in class in Race 5, a Class 5 Handicap, where she is taking on males but could nevertheless be a cut above her field.
Snaith has already had a great season so far in the Western Cape which culminated in his winning the Grade 1 World Sports Betting Cape Town Met with exciting colt Eight On Eighteen who then went on to capture the Grade 1 Splashout Cape Derby.
But in Races 4 and 6 respectively he sends out two more three-year-olds that could be under the radar. Powerandtheglory is a gelded Gimmethegreenlight half-brother to Snaith’s Cape Guineas and Met hero Double Superlative, but while he came home an impressive winner in his second start he didn’t step up on that.
Nevertheless, he has not finished far off Eric Sand-trained Gallic Dream and in his last start, his first after gelding, he seemed to settle better and made some progress. He has been given the best of the draws in Race 4, a B Stakes, and it could be his time to stake his claim for the upcoming big races.
The same can be said of Regulation who could be hard to beat in Race 6, a Class 4 Handicap. He is related to Snaith’s well-handicapped Durban July winner Belgarion and he has won more races, admittedly when not fancied. But he was heavily fancied when unlucky in his last two. It is obvious that he is also showing a lot more now matured.
Clive Robinson
David Hayes hopes Rubylot can sparkle in 148th BMW Hong Kong...
David Hayes is aiming to scale a familiar peak when Rubylot lines up in Sunday’s (23 March) HK$26 million 148th BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) at Sha Tin.
Hayes trained 458 winners from 1995/96 to 2004/05 – a period when he was also twice Hong Kong Champion Trainer (1997/98 & 1998/99) in an era against the likes of Ivan Allan, John Moore and Brian Kan, and Hayes also famously won the 2003 Hong Kong Derby with Elegant Fashion – the first filly to land the Classic since Corvette in 1976.
Returning for his second Hong Kong training stint in 2020/21, Hayes – a proven winner everywhere he has gone – encountered a slower comeback to the city than anticipated, scoring 32 wins (2020/21), 36 (2021/22) and 34 (2022/23) in the seasons that followed.
The Australian Racing Hall of Famer moved closer to the heights he is accustomed to with 47 wins last campaign – led by Ka Ying Rising (five wins), Tomodachi Kokoroe (four), Samarkand (four), Lucky Encounter (three) and Rubylot (three), who has excelled with three more victories in 2024/25 including this month’s HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m).
“I’ve got a really good group of horses spread across all grades, and the horses aren’t moving anymore and that’s a huge help,” Hayes said. “When horses move (stables) after they’ve dropped in class it can really slow you up. We’re loving Hong Kong and it has been a good season – maybe there’s a little bit more to come.”
Hayes is on track to eclipse last season’s total. He has 38 wins through 54 of the 88 race meetings, four shy of championship leader John Size (42 wins). Hayes has also netted HK$91.54 million in earnings – the highest in any season he has trained in Hong Kong, primarily from the world’s best sprinter Ka Ying Rising’s three Group 1 triumphs.
Saddling Rubylot in Sunday’s BMW Hong Kong Derby against 13 rivals, Hayes put the Rubick gelding through a turf gallop on Monday morning (17 March) in preparation, clocking 1m 23.0s (29.7, 29.1, 24.2) under big-race rider Brenton Avdulla.
“Brenton was very happy with him. He’s a fit horse and in great shape. He’s had a perfect preparation and like a lot of them he’s unknown at the distance, but the way he finished the 1800 (metres) off tells me that it won’t be a problem,” Hayes said.
Owned by the HK Football Club Horse Racing Syndicate and rated 100, Rubylot is a six-time winner in Hong Kong, including once at Class 2 level. The trainer is wary of HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m) winner My Wish this weekend.
“We couldn’t have asked him to do much more in his four-year-old year. Obviously, Mark Newnham’s horse (My Wish) is a quality horse and he’s shown consistent form through the main lead ups,” Hayes said.
“What you have to weigh up is how much more improvement those progressive Class 3 and Class 2 horses have. It’s the same every year, some years they step up and other years they don’t.”
Across his first term training in Hong Kong, Hayes enjoyed four 50-plus win seasons, while his career-high 62 came in his championship year of 1997/98 with a 12.4%-win strike rate.
Rapper Dragon (2017) and Golden Sixty (2020) are the only Hong Kong Classic Cup winners over the last 10 years to also capture the BMW Hong Kong Derby.
By Declan Schuster
Greeff holds the Sophomore Challenge Aces
Trainer Alan Greeff seems to hold all the aces ahead of Friday’s race meeting at Fairview, where two Listed features, the East Cape Guineas and East Cape Sprint Cup, headline the nine-race card.
The East Cape Guineas is also the second leg of the East Cape Sophomore Challenge, and after romping to a 2.25-length victory in the opening leg, the Ibhayi Stakes over 1400m, My Best Shot looks hard to oppose.
A seven-time winner from 13 outings, My Best Shot already boasts a victory over 1600m and having completed a hat-trick in the Ibhayi Stakes, should keep his momentum going.
Rather disappointingly, he will face only five challengers, with two of these his stable companions Splicethemainbrace and Master Forester.
Splicethemainbrace is a nine-time winner from 11 runs and arguably by far the best three-year-old filly in the Eastern Cape, so watching her go head-to-head with My Best Shot is a race to look forward to.
Richard Fourie has been the regular jockey on both of Greeff’s star three-year-olds, and he will be aboard My Best Shot on Friday, with in-form Ryan Munger contracted to steer Splicethemainbrace.
While Greeff holds the aces, it could be Zietsman Oosthuizen who produces the joker in the form of Waheed.
This Time Thief gelding will be making his Fairview debut having relocated to the Eastern Cape from the Highveld yard of Mike and Mathew de Kock.
Waheed has contested five graded races without being disgraced, so there’s no denying he is held in high regard.
In the East Cape Sprint Cup, the Greeff-trained Fairy Knight is sure to attract cash in heaps.
This gelded son of Global View won both the Ibhayi Stakes and the East Cape Guineas last season. He has, however, been doing his best work over 1200m recently and will be aiming to complete a 1200m hat-trick.
The only concern is that Fairy Knight is coming off a break, which opens the door for Gavin Smith’s three-year-old Kingdundee.
A three-time winner as a juvenile, Kingdundee cantered in to take the honours in a Pinnacle Stakes in his first outing after turning three, beating the likes of Cliff Top by 2.25-lengths
If that run is any indication of his ability, he could well take this race in his stride and prove he is the young prince of Fairview ready to challenge for the crown.
Clive Robinson
Fastnet Filly building up to a Grand Crescendo
The weekday race meeting at Turffontein on Thursday 20 March promises to be highly competitive with four Class B events on the eight-race card.
The first of these is Race 2, a Graduation Plate over 1200m, where Grand Crescendo appeals most.
This gelded son of One World started his career in Cape Town when still a juvenile but did not make any impact. Brought up-country, he scored a quick-fire double over 1400m.
So impressive was his development that trainer Candice Dawson entered him in the Grade 1 Champion Stakes for two-year-olds at Greyville, where he finished third, beaten less than a length by VJ’s Angel.
After that run he was given a break. His comeback run was in the Grade 2 Joburg Spring Challenge, but on that day everything that could go wrong, did.
Last time out he showed why he is so highly rated and was just pipped by Winds Of Change, another runner who has placed in a Grade 1 race.
On Thursday Grand Crescendo should get back to winning ways being the best weighted and stripping fitter.
He should, however, expect both Musical Score and Buffalo Storm Cody to breathe down his neck all the way.
Musical Score, trained by Lucky Houdalakis, drops back to his best distance after trying his luck in the Grade 2 Gauteng Guineas last time out. It will be his first run since being gelded, and that may just bring about more improvement.
Buffalo Storm Cody, from Tony Peter’s yard, also makes his comeback as a gelding and looks ready to prove his class.
In Race 7, a FM88 Handicap over 1000m, lightly raced Fastnet Filly is the one to be with as she continues her hot streak for the father-and-son team of Brett and James Crawford now that she races on the Highveld.
Five of her nine career runs have come since she turned five and they have yielded three victories and two close runner-up finishes.
This daughter of Fastnet Rock also started her career in Cape Town without success but has been on a tremendous upward trajectory since relocating to the Highveld.
She is now rated 20 points higher at 87 since her move up-country and has taken every ratings increase in her stride.
From gate 3, and with Kabelo Matsunyane again in the saddle, she will take a power of beating.
Clive Robinson
Aurora Lady, Beauty Destiny clash in stacked Class 2 sprint at...
Aurora Lady (128lb) and Beauty Destiny (125lb) are two of this season’s success stories at Happy Valley and tomorrow night (Wednesday, 19 March) the duo clashes for a second time in a hotly contested HK$2.84 million Class 2 Sports Handicap (1200m).
Both four-time winners at city circuit this term, Aurora Lady and Beauty Destiny have consistently raised the bar throughout the 2024/25 campaign. The pair met last December for the only time with Aurora Lady successful over a fast-closing Beauty Destiny by a short head.
Pierre Ng trains Aurora Lady, who will be ridden by James Orman from barrier one. Beauty Destiny pairs with trusted accomplice Andrea Atzeni for trainer Frankie Lor in stall 10.
Atzeni, who coincidentally rode both horses to their last-start victories, said: “They’re two completely different horses. Aurora Lady has beaten me before but only because the two of them race differently – one goes forward and one goes back.
“Aurora Lady is obviously going to get his chance because he jumps and gives himself that opportunity by going forward to lead or sit second. With my horse, Beauty Destiny, he’s a horse who you can’t force early and he needs luck in running. He might be the better horse but he does need more luck than Aurora Lady.”
Son Pak Fu (135lb), Full Credit (130lb), Brave Star (126lb), Superb Capitalist (125lb), Swift Ascend (124lb), Harmony N Blessed (123lb), Gustosisimo (121lb), Stellar Express (121lb), Bundle Of Charm (120lb) and Wings Of War (119lb) complete the quality line-up, which has collectively accumulated 21 wins this season from 10 of the 12 runners in total.
Since reverting to being ridden conservatively, Beauty Destiny has thrived and he will aim to continue a productive season when he makes the leap in class on Wednesday evening.
“Beauty Destiny has been very consistent but he’s up into Class 2 now and against a very competitive field. Stepping up to Class 2, I was thinking hopefully there aren’t too many runners but it’s a very tough field – horses who are competitive and winning at the level,” Atzeni said.
“He’s going to have to up his game again but he’s done nothing wrong so far and he’s entitled to take his chance.”
Hailing from Sardinia, Italy, Atzeni partners Ng’s Johannes Brahms in Sunday’s (23 March) HK$26 million 148th BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) at Sha Tin. Atzeni and Ng teamed with Ka Ying Generation to finish third in the 2024 running of the race.
“He’s (Johannes Brahms) a good ride to get. It looks like a very competitive field and a very open race but he has the form in the book,” Atzeni said.
Johannes Brahms is a two-time winner in Hong Kong. The 95-rating Siyouni gelding finished third in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m) last start behind Rubylot and My Wish, both of whom reoppose in Sunday’s blue riband at Sha Tin.
Lyle Hewitson rides Full Credit from barrier seven in Happy Valley’s finale. Mark Newnham’s consistent Va Pensiero galloper has won once this season and placed six times over a variety of course and distances.
“I think he’s shown his versatility – he’s run well at Happy Valley and Sha Tin, on the turf and the dirt, and over the 1000 (metres) or 1200,” Hewitson said.
“His only go at Happy Valley, I thought, was a decent effort. He was pressured getting to the lead and he had to do quite a bit of work. He was there for a long time, he looked good at the top of the straight and he was only collared late.
“He should be better for that experience and he’s maintained a good level of form.”
Wednesday’s (19 March) nine-race fixture at Happy Valley commences at 6.35pm with the Class 5 Bowrington Handicap (1650m).
By Declan Schuster
Izibulo could be the value play of the day
Trainer Garth Puller has some interesting runners at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Wednesday. Beautifully bred Izibulo beat a horse that has gone through the divisions and that could be the form line to be with.
As to the best race of the day, Mike Miller’s Abaddon, one of the best finishers around, could make in three wins in a row.
Not only is Izibulo by stallion of the moment, Lancaster Bomber, but she is out of an Ideal World mare, so is bred in the purple. As a juvenile she took a few runs to get the hang of things but once she did, she showed decent potential. She beat Warrior Royale then, and while Izibulo has dropped in ratings, the latter has since gone through the divisions winning three from her last four (won easily last week), sitting with a merit rating of 96 with more to come.
Izibulo, who travelled smoothly when winning her maiden run over 1400m at Scottsville, never looked like weakening, she must be underrated with a rating of 79.
She dropped a few points after needing her last two and having secured a plum gate in Race 6 could remain unbeaten now back to her best track and trip. For good measure Puller has also engaged the services of up-and-coming apprentice Jacey Botes, who claims 4kg.
Puller also has Sanbeenee, in the race before (Race 5). The Futura filly has yet to show at Scottsville but her last run on the Polytrack at Hollywoodbets Greyville was amazing to see. She came from an impossible position to run second, beaten 0.90 lengths by Flying Reign Storm on the Polytrack and it may be that she has needed time to mature.
She has run well over 1800m and 1900m and but the slight drop to 1750m could be ideal. Like Izibulo she runs in a competitive race and could jump as something of a value proposition.
Both Master Du Rouvray (Race 4) and Abaddon (Race 8) appeal as possible bankers on the day. The former runs for trainer Mark Dixon who hasn’t had the best of starts to the year. But his Master Of My Fate gelding whom he has rated in the past finished 12 lengths clear of the third-placed runner Tickalox when second to Highveld form horse Kwagga Blitz and he could turn things around.
Miller, on the other hand, has had one of his better seasons. He is the trainer of earlier-mentioned Warrior Royale, and in Abaddon he has a horse who could also be headed for better things. The Flying The Flag gelding is a lightly raced four-year-old who has produced outstanding finishes to win two difficult races in a row.
In Race 8 which is a Class 4 run over 1200m he is running in the toughest field on the day but the fact that he beat hard knockers All The Time, Gorgeous Guy and Masterbling in his first run out of the maidens in his first run at the track on soft ground coming from the worst draw must say something about his ability.
Clive Robinson
Noah Khan Gains A Run And A G1
Thirteen races took place on Sunday the 16th of March at the Selangor Turf Club with three feature races taking place including the first leg of the Triple Crown series, the Equine Sanctuary Tunku Gold Cup for RM300,000.
The first of the features took place in race 7, the UPBH Platinum Horse Club Trophy, contested over 1400m. Achilles Pegasus jumped as a short priced favourite and managed to shrug off the only danger, Pulse Bomb, despite coming together in the closing stages and an objection being laid against the winner. However, the objection was overruled and the result stood as the W Lim trained runner took home the RM62,000 race and was a good win for jockey A Azizi.
The Equine Sanctuary Tunku Gold Cup took place in race 9 on the program and racegoers would have noticed the important scratching of Golden Pegasus which allowed the emergency acceptor Noah Khan, from the S Siva stable, to gain a run which certainly opened the race up. Based on the formline of a Supreme A Stakes race from three weeks ago , Noah Khan had to be considered a big runner as he had beaten all of Witnessimpact, Pacific Vampire, Super Salute and Good Fight from that race. There was plenty of pace on from the moment the gates opened as Pacific Vampire tried to set the track record with a blistering pace up front and pretty much set up any horse that had settled midfield to be able to finish off strongly. Al Da Silva had the perfect run in transit and was able to quicken turning for home to win by over a length. Antipodean ran another honest race in second and Platinum Emperor flew up from almost last turning for home to finish third. Stable companion Platinum Fort completed the quartet in fourth.
The last of the feature races took place in race 10 which was the Equine Sanctuary Trophy over 1200m and ended up as the Pacific Stable exacta as Pacific Victory took home the honours with stable companion from the J Ong stable, Pacific Master finishing runner up. This was PH Seow’s second winner for the day as she rode Pacific Beauty in the second for the same owner and trainer combination.
Overall it was a mixed day results wise with a few big upsets but it was a fantastic occasion for trainer S Siva with his first Tunku Gold Cup victory and certainly a day he won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
John Size edges to a four-win buffer in Hong Kong trainers’...
Bidding for a record-extending 13th Hong Kong trainers’ championship, John Size forged to a four-win lead in the 2024/25 standings with a treble at Sha Tin on Saturday (15 March) as the master horseman targets a fourth BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) triumph next weekend.
Size boosted his tally to 42 wins and cemented his place at the top of the trainers’ standings over David Hayes (38) after striking with Crossborderpegasus, Lifeline Express and Juneau Pride – eight days out from saddling Bundle Award, Mickley and Beauty Alliance in the HK$26 million BMW Hong Kong Derby.
The Australian combined with Crossborderpegasus under Hugh Bowman in the Class 4 Azalea Handicap (1200m) and also scored with Lifeline Express for Andrea Atzeni in the Class 3 Angelonia Handicap (1200m) and Juneau Pride under Brenton Avdulla in the second section of the Class 3 Cosmos Handicap (1400m).
In a familiar scenario, Size’s stable has hit its straps after a sedate opening to the season. In five meetings this month alone, Size has slotted 10 wins, including a treble and three doubles in a powerhouse surge.
Bowman boosted his tally to 48 wins – a haul bettered only by sidelined Zac Purton (84) – with wins on Crossborderpegasus, Sunlight Power for Ricky Yiu in the Class 2 The Kowloon Tong Club Trophy Handicap (1600m) and Monarch County for Caspar Fownes in the Class 4 Hydrangea Handicap (1400m).
“It’s been a good day. I had some nice rides. Take it when you can,” Bowman said before praising Sunlight Power’s effort. “It was a pretty solid speed set up front that suited him and obviously he’s performed well on rain-affected ground before and he just got into a beautiful rhythm and his class shone.”
Bowman was similarly effusive about Crossborderpegasus, a Rich Enuff three-year-old who is undefeated in two starts.
“He (Crossborderpegasus) is an exciting horse, he’s got plenty of points in hand and he does have that tendency to lay in – which he needs to overcome as he goes up in the rating points – but we won’t be too critical of him at his second run in a race,” Bowman said.
Size said: “He’s going well. He’s certainly got a bit of ability and it’s just a matter of developing that. If he can improve on that, it will be promising for his future.”
Having finished second four times narrowly this season – twice by a short head and twice by a head – Lifeline Express improved his overall record to two wins, six seconds and three thirds for prizemoney of HK$4.36 million with a deserved victory.
Relishing rain-affected conditions, Hong Kong International Sale graduate Monarch County claimed his first win at his fifth attempt for Fownes in the Class 4 Hydrangea Handicap (1400m).
Manfred Man claimed a double with Super Strong Kid, who impressed with victory in the Class 4 Chinese Hibiscus Handicap (1000m) under Matthew Chadwick, and Gold Master, who finished powerfully under Atzeni to win the Class 4 The Association Of Hong Kong Racing Journalists Challenge Cup Handicap (1800m).
David Hayes scored with three-year-old World Hero, who broke through at his 10th start under Luke Ferraris in the Class 5 Snapdragon Handicap (1200m) to stay within striking distance of Size in the trainers’ championship.
“He (World Hero) is only three, so I’d expect him to have his better seasons next year and the year after. It just seems like he’s been here a long time as he came here as a two-year-old. Physically, he’ll get better as he matures. I’ve always thought he’s a 1400m (horse) and miler.”
Avdulla strengthened his grip on third place in the jockeys’ championship with 33 wins after a double, having successfully joining forces with Pierre Ng’s Soaring Bronco to land the Class 5 Dahlia Handicap (1600m) before Harry Bentley guided Hong Lok Golf to a brave victory over Size-trained Sky Jewellery in the first section of the Class 3 Cosmos Handicap (1400m).
Hong Kong racing continues at Happy Valley on Wednesday night (19 March).
By Leo Schlink
2025 Group 1 Equine Sanctuary Tunku Gold Cup Preview
The RM300,000 Group 1 Equine Sanctuary Tunku Gold Cup (1200m), the first leg of the Triple Crown Series, will feature a full field of 14 contenders this Sunday afternoon at Selangor Turf Club.
No. 1 AWESOME STORM: A seasoned campaigner, his recent form has been mixed, with a third-place finish at Supreme A company in his last start. However, carrying top weight remains a significant concern.
No. 2 SUPER SALUTE: This former Singapore galloper has shown promise in all three of his starts in Malaysia, though he is yet to win. If he can recapture the form that saw him win feature races at Kranji, he will be a strong contender.
No. 3 ANTIPODEAN: With an impressive record of nine wins from 12 starts, he is undoubtedly the most progressive horse in Malaysia in recent years. He is well weighted against most of his rivals in this feature and looks on track to claim his second victory at the highest level.
No. 4 PLATINUM EMPEROR: Formerly racing in Macau, he exceeded expectations with a dominant win in a 5YO race on his local debut. Since then, he has trialled impressively and looks to be a strong contender to give trainer Ricky Choi his first Group 1 victory.
No. 5 PLATINUM FORT: The other runner from Ricky Choi’s stable, he faces an uphill task to make his local debut in a Group 1 event. A place finish seems his best chance.
No. 6 ARIGATO: Blessed with great early speed, he made all with an effortless victory in a Supreme A race last time out. However, with a larger field this time, the expected fast pace may not play to his advantage.
No. 7 CHINESE TEA: A consistent front-runner, he may struggle against the tougher competition in this week’s field, having failed to place in five previous starts at Group 1 level.
No. 8 SHIRVO: He has shown promise, finishing second in both of his local starts. Despite facing tough competition this week, a Top 3 finish would not be surprising.
No. 9 CHEVAL BLANC: One of the most versatile horses in Malaysia in recent years, he has claimed victories over distances ranging from 1200m to 2000m, including three Group 1 wins. If he is overlooked in the market this week, he is certainly worth considering.
No. 10 PACIFIC VAMPIRE: He is likely to be the first to reach the 400m mark, but his ability to sustain the effort in the straight is highly questionable, as indicated by his recent performances.
No. 11 WITNESSIMPACT: Although winless from nine overseas starts, he has been a revelation since moving to Malaysia, with five victories from eight outings. Given his rapid progress, he must be considered one of the better chances.
No. 12 TE AKAU BEN: His recent form has been promising, although he typically performs best over 1400m or above. However, if the pace is set too fast up front, he could sneak into the placings at long odds.
No. 13 GOOD FIGHT: He finished a solid third in the Group 1 Perak Derby two weeks ago, but the significant drop in distance from 2000m to 1200m may raise concerns.
No. 14 GOLDEN PEGASUS: This quality five-year-old has been placed in both of his Group 1 starts, so he should not be overlooked, despite being poorly weighted under this week’s racing conditions.
No. 15 NOAH KHAN (EA1): He scored a 5.25-length victory at big odds in Supreme A company last time out. If he can replicate that performance, he will be a genuine contender here.
No. 16 RENZO (EA2): After an all-the-way victory in a small field of three last week, he will face much tougher competition at Group 1 level this time.
No. 17 EMERALD LISI (EA3): Given his narrow win in Class 3 last start, it will be a challenge for him to finish in the Top 3.
Given the size of the field, a fast pace is expected, which could benefit horses like ANTIPODEAN, SUPER SALUTE, PLATINUM EMPEROR, WITNESSIMPACT, and TE AKAU BEN. Other contenders, including SHIRVO, CHEVAL BLANC, and GOOD FIGHT, are also in the mix. Additionally, the race conditions favour higher-rated horses over their lower-rated counterparts.
My Wish, Rubylot head 148th BMW Hong Kong Derby selected runners
My Wish and Rubylot head an enthralling group of 14 selected runners for the HK$26 million 148th BMW Hong Kong Derby (2000m) at Sha Tin next Sunday (23 March) – the supreme test for Hong Kong’s four-year-old bracket all chasing once-in-a-lifetime glory.
Victorious in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Mile (1600m), the first leg of the three-race Four-Year-Old Classic Series, My Wish shoots for a fifth Hong Kong win and first in the city’s most sought-after contest for his trainer Mark Newnham.
Rubylot is the highest rated runner in the field on 100. Successful in the HK$13 million Hong Kong Classic Cup (1800m), the second leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series, Rubylot will aim to give two-time Hong Kong Champion Trainer (1997/98 & 1998/99) David Hayes a second Classic win in Hong Kong after super filly Elegant Fashion captured the 2003 edition.
First run in 1873, the BMW Hong Kong Derby is restricted to four-year-old runners over 2000m. Past winners of the coveted crown include River Verdon (1991), Oriental Express (1997), Vengeance Of Rain (2005), Viva Pataca (2006), Ambitious Dragon (2011), Designs On Rome (2014), Werther (2016), Rapper Dragon (2017), Golden Sixty (2020), Romantic Warrior (2022) and Voyage Bubble (2023).
Last year’s BMW Hong Kong Derby was won by Massive Sovereign. Joining the winners of the first two legs of the HK$52 million Four-Year-Old Classic Series – My Wish and Rubylot – is a cavalcade of stars compiling form references from many corners of the globe.
Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, Chief Executive Officer, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said at today’s (Friday, 14 March) selection announcement: “I would like to congratulate all the owners of the 14 horses selected to run in the BMW Hong Kong Derby next Sunday, which we celebrate as the Hong Kong race which offers once-in-a-lifetime glory.
“BMW Hong Kong Derby Day is one of the great sporting events and attractions in the city for our Hong Kong racing fans and our racing fans from around the world, with the race being broadcast in 26 countries. The Derby has a rich history stretching back more than 150 years to 1873. To have a runner in the Derby field is an ambition for every horse owner, trainer and jockey in Hong Kong and is already a great achievement. And to win the BMW Hong Kong Derby is the ultimate.
“The Derby has produced a string of world-class horses who have advanced to greatness on the world racing stage, none more so than our global champion Romantic Warrior who won the Derby in 2022. Romantic Warrior also holds the world record for prize money earned after winning Group 1 races in four separate jurisdictions.
“This year’s Four-Year-Old Classic Series has been incredibly competitive with My Wish winning the Hong Kong Classic Mile and Rubylot winning the Hong Kong Classic Cup with both horses aim for a double in the Four-Year-Old Classic Series but they will be challenged by many rising stars. It is fair to say this year’s Derby is one of the most open in memory.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank BMW and Sime Motors Group (Hong Kong & Macau), which has been the Hong Kong Derby’s sponsor since 2013.”
Second in the 2024 version with a fast-finishing Galaxy Patch, Pierre Ng will chase BMW Hong Kong Derby glory with two-time winner Johannes Brahms, who managed to close off for third in the Hong Kong Classic Cup.
Legendary racing figure Tony Cruz and the BMW Hong Kong Derby have been intertwined since Cruz tasted his first success in the race as a jockey in 1983. He won the race three more times in 1987, 1988 and 1995, while as a trainer he has prevailed with Lucky Owners (2004) and Helene Mascot (2008).
Cruz, 68, saddles Stunning Peach and five-time winner Californiatotality. Stunning Peach, formerly based in Ireland, made ground to finish sixth in the Hong Kong Classic Cup.
Cruz’s wins as a jockey came aboard Co-Tack (1983), Tea For Two II (1987), Clear City (1988) and Makarpura Star (1995).
Francis Lui swept all three legs of the 2020 Four-Year-Old Classic Series with Golden Sixty, who is only the second horse to achieve that feat after Rapper Dragon (2017), and Lui is represented by Packing Angel, Cap Ferrat and Steps Ahead.
John Size has won the BMW Hong Kong Derby three times with Fay Fay (2012), Luger (2015) and Ping Hai Star (2018). Hong Kong’s master horseman – a 12-time Hong Kong Champion Trainer – fields Bundle Award, Mickley and Beauty Alliance this year.
Bundle Award raced into contention for Size after posting a last-to-first Class 2 success earlier this month at Sha Tin under jockey Ben Thompson, who rides the horse again, while a pair of brilliant wins at Happy Valley, including last Wednesday (12 March) by over three lengths, sees an exciting Beauty Alliance complete Size’s trio.
Following Massive Sovereign’s success in 2024, trainer Dennis Yip is going for a second straight triumph with Noisy Boy in the BMW Hong Kong Derby. A course and distance winner two starts ago in Class 2, Noisy Boy is aiming to bounce back after fading to 13th in the Hong Kong Classic Cup.
A graduate of the 2024 Hong Kong International Sale, Markwin will be trainer Cody Mo’s first runner in the BMW Hong Kong Derby. The son of I Am Invincible has earned HK$4.4 million across nine runs headlined by two wins – including a last-start second to Bundle Award at Class 2 level to enhance his rating to 81.
Caspar Fownes is a dual BMW Hong Kong Derby-winning trainer after Super Satin (2010) and Sky Darci (2021). The 57-year-old is represented by Harzand gelding Lo Rider – a two-time winner in Ireland at Cork and The Curragh before arriving in Hong Kong.
Mr Andrew Harding, Executive Director, Racing, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: “The BMW Hong Kong Derby is one of the most prestigious races on the calendar – a once-in-a-lifetime challenge that every owner aspires to have a runner in, or better still, win. We are expecting 2025 to provide another memorable chapter to an enduring story of excellence, and as the 148th edition of the race in Hong Kong, we are immensely proud of its history.”
“The honour roll speaks for itself. In recent years we have seen the likes of Golden Sixty, Romantic Warrior and Voyage Bubble follow BMW Hong Kong Derby glory with Group 1 successes at Sha Tin and, overseas in the case of Romantic Warrior. The 2025 renewal is shaping as another remarkable edition with a host of incredible talents converging on Sha Tin next Sunday.”
The race, which is limited to 14 runners, has four reserves: Mondial, Sky Heart, Pray For Mir and Sky Trust.
Coolmore Classic: The Battle for Sydney’s Autumn Crown Begins
Get ready for one of the most thrilling times of the year in world racing! This Saturday marks the kickoff of the Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival , starting at Rosehill, and all eyes will be on the Group 1 Coolmore Classic for fillies and mares. With a purse of $1 million on the line, the stakes are high, and the questions are even higher!
Can the highly anticipated three-year-old Lady Shenandoah live up to the hype and deliver on her promise?
Will last year’s Golden Slipper winner, Lady of Camelot, spark a thrilling new rivalry and prove she’s still the one to beat?
Is Amelia’s Jewel truly ready to claim her place as one of Australia’s top mares, or will the pressure be too much?
And can the talented Coeur Volante rise to the challenge in the cutthroat Sydney racing scene?
All of these questions will be answered this Saturday in the feature event that promises drama, speed, and excitement. Don’t miss out!
SKY Racing’s Brad Gray and Sam Phillips bring you the ultimate preview of the race, offering expert insights into all the contenders.
March 15 Perak Preview By Mark Lydeamore
Two Class 4 events will headline the nine-race program from Perak Turf Club on Saturday commencing at 1.15pm.
In the first division (Race 8), promising 3yo PEAKY BLINDER returns to Class 4 company for the first time since successive victories in the grade back in September last year. The locally trained gelding performed admirably against the high graders with two minor placings at Class 3 level and a Cosmo C respectively. Given every opportunity last start in the race won by Leong Ma Biscuit over 1300m on February 8, PEAKY BLINDER (1) will only rise 1.5kg in the weights for regular jockey, HS Gill and should prove hard to beat on the downgrade.
BRANDENBURG (2), currently in the care of his fourth trainer since debuting in Malaysia back in December 2023, has been a model of consistency recently with three minor placings in a row behind some progressive types. Recording five wins in the country, including a winning hat trick in November, the 4yo is a reliable beginner and from barrier six should be placed on speed with jockey KC Wong to take the ride.
YOU THINK SO (7) was heavily supported in the local market and duly saluted over this distance here three weeks ago. Drawing gate two on that occasion, the 4yo has to contend with the outside gate (Br10) this time but is still a chance of recording successive wins, which he accomplished in April and May of last year.
SWEET LOVE (10) was beaten a nose behind YOU THINK SO (6) after trying to lead throughout and will no doubt break through at this level very soon. The gelding scored at his local debut over this track and distance in November and looks poised to strike on the minimum.
GROOVY (5) is a proven Class 4 performer in Singapore and his recent trial in KL should place him in good stead for a forward showing first up in the country.
Race 8 Selections: (1) PEAKY BLINDER (2) BRANDENBURG (6) YOU THINK SO (10) SWEET LOVE
The second division (Race 9) winds up the meeting at 5.25pm and appears to be a more open contest.
MONTANA FLASH (1) will strip fitter following his first run for the year over 1200m here three weeks ago when finishing 6th, beaten four lengths behind Man Of Action. The 6yo seems to perform best over the middle distances but Saturday’s race is not overly strong and he can strike over the 1200m trip.
THUNDER SPIRIT (4) finished just ahead of MONTANA FLASH (1) in that same race and is capable of scoring at this level. The 7yo finally broke the maiden tag at his run prior and looks a chance despite the deep draw.
After five runs locally, MOCHI (6) opened his Malaysian account when leading throughout in KL over 1150m a fortnight ago. The gelding was heavily supported into favorite and is a chance of going back-to-back on his first visit to the Perak circuit.
FORTUNE STAR (10) delivered over the mile in January and has been racing well at this level since. Coming from wide barriers at his past two starts, the 7yo has reeled off fast final sectionals when coming from rearward positions both times and with luck in running, is capable of delivering his first Class 4 success.
SILENT BOSS (5) caught the eye with a fast-finishing 3rd at big odds in Man Of Action’s race but he can be inconsistent at times.
Race 9 Selections: (1) MONTANA FLASH (4) THUNDER SPIRIT (6) MOCHI (10) FORTUNE STAR
South Africa Express Form & Race Previews (Greyville) – March 23
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RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: GREYVILLE@2025.03.23
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 1, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R135,000, 11:40GMT+2Race Summary: GOTTA GO EDDIE started favourite on debut but was run out of it late. The step up in trip should suit. BELL OF ANGELUS has consistent form over shorter and although taking on males, she too could prefer this extended trip. HOLLYWOOD HEIRESS has shown some promise and could improve this trip while LIKE FIRE could also improve over the extra.
Selections: #6 GOTTA GO EDDIE, #5 HOLLYWOOD HEIRESS, #1 BELL OF ANGELUS, #9 LIKE FIRE
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 2, Gallops, 1800m, Turf, R148,000, 12:10GMT+2Race Summary: BROADWAY GIRL showed up nicely first run back from a short break. She goes well this trip. PALERMO has been improving steadily and is seldom far back. This trip should suit although he has it all to do at the weights. CAPSAICIN is lightly raced but useful. He steps up in trip but will feature at best. SHOOT THE RAPIDS has been rested and gelded. Although the class horse in the race he will probably need this outing.
Selections: #5 BROADWAY GIRL, #4 PALERMO, #3 CAPSAICIN, #6 SHOOT THE RAPIDS
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 3, Gallops, 2000m, Turf, R110,000, 12:45GMT+2Race Summary: BAD MEDICINE has his first run for a new stable. He comes with some useful Highveld form where he has been well supported in the market. Lerena stays with the ride. SILVER PLATTER returns from a break but is lightly raced and he has improved at recent outings. FIRE FORCE has not been far back at his last two and can improve on his last run when returning from a short break. CUZZIE made sudden improvement at long odds last run in the soft and could surprise.
Selections: #7 BAD MEDICINE, #3 SILVER PLATTER, #6 FIRE FORCE, #5 CUZZIE
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 4, Gallops, 2000m, Turf, R120,000, 13:20GMT+2Race Summary: JP’S PALACE has yet to run a bad race. He has a fair weight here but will benefit from Rachel Venniker’s 1.5kg allowance. ARVERNI KING seldom runs a bad race and has been knocking at the door for late. He is course and distance suited. NATIONAL DREAM has his third run after a break and should strip at his peak. QONDANEKUKHANYENI has a light weight and could make all.
Selections: #9 JP’S PALACE, #8 ARVERNI KING, #4 NATIONAL DREAM, #3 QONDANEKUKHANYENI
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 5, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R90,000, 13:55GMT+2Race Summary: FUTURE SAINT has been improving slowly. This looks to be the right race and he should make a bold bid. ANIMAL IMPACT is way better than his last effort when ridden by an apprentice. He has his third run after a break. ELUSIVE BELLE takes on males and has the worst of the draw but she showed up well last run and Serino Moodley stays with the ride. RUN TO RIO is another having his third run after a rest and has not been far back of late.
Selections: #6 FUTURE SAINT, #2 ANIMAL IMPACT, #5 RUN TO RIO, #12 ELUSIVE BELLE
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 6, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R135,000, 14:30GMT+2Race Summary: FIELD MARSHAL ran a cracker in a feature last time out, only being run out of it late. He takes on weaker but has a corresponding jump in weight to contend with but has the best of the draw. KITCHAKAL is never far off them but got a two-point raise in the handicap for his last effort. However, he has been consistent. SIGN OF FATE needed her last run over a sprint and can do better over this trip with a handy weight. MASCHERINA returns from a break but is useful and one to watch in the market.
Selections: #1 FIELD MARSHAL, #5 KITCHAKAL, #6 SIGN OF FATE, #8 MASCHERINA
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 7, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R165,000, 15:05GMT+2Race Summary: There was a head separating NARINA TROGON and FORMAGEAR when last they met but the former was finishing his race off the better. They meet on the same weight terms jumping alongside of each other so there should not be much between them again. MISS PLATINA won well enough last start but escaped the handicappers. She has another light weight and Muzi Yeni stays aboard. GLADATORIAN is the class horse in the race but has not been out since December. Stuart Ferrie’s charge will have bigger fish to fry come Champions Season.
Selections: #9 NARINA TROGON, #8 FORMAGEAR, #3 MISS PLATINA, #2 GLADATORIAN
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 8, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R120,000, 15:40GMT+2Race Summary: BURNING MAN has been in good form since being fitted with blinkers but was a beaten favourite at his last two. He can make amends. SONATA SAMARITAN takes on males but has yet to run a bad race. She has taken a two-point drop in the handicap which will help her cause. ROOSTER BRADSHAW was not far back in his handicap debut and does show some promise. The extra will suit. THE GLIDING FISH is way better than his last run. He steps up to a more suitable trip and could be the surprise package.
Selections: #4 BURNING MAN, #3 SONATA SAMARITAN, #5 ROOSTER BRADSHAW, #9 THE GLIDING FISH
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 9, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R120,000, 16:15GMT+2Race Summary: FESTIVAL OF MAGIC has run two promising races since arriving in KZN. He has been dropping in the handicap and from a handy draw he should be a contender. PAPA C has shown up well since returning from a break and has his third run since the lay-off. He was a close-up second last start but has drawn a little wide. JAZZ FESTIVAL has been consistent and goes well this trip. RED MOUNTAIN is never far off and looks to be over his optimum trip.
Selections: #2 FESTIVAL OF MAGIC, #9 PAPA C, #8 JAZZ FESTIVAL, #7 RED MOUNTAIN
HOLLYWOODBETS GREYVILLE, 23.03.2025, Race 10, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R135,000, 16:50GMT+2Race Summary: TWENTY ONE MAY was touched off last run and has been consistent over the distance. He has a handy galloping weight and should be a contender. Gavin Lerena replaces the apprentices aboard CONNERY who although drawn wide does appear to enjoy the turn which could see him to his sixth win. VISION TO ACHIEVE is battling for her next win but has been dropping in the handicap and with only 50kg to shoulder she could finally notch her third success. IBHELE has been a little disappointing but may be worth another chance given his light weight and a favourable draw.
Selections: #7 TWENTY ONE MAY, #11 CONNERY, #6 VISION TO ACHIEVE, #2 IBHELE
Best Win: #7 BAD MEDICINE
Best Value Bet: #1 FIELD MARSHAL
Best Longshot: #2 ANIMAL IMPACT
France Express Form & Race Previews (Strasbourg/ La Teste de Buch/...
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RACE 1: DANY SCHNEIDER MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 1) – 2000M – TIME: 17:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR21000
Summary: An interesting opening race. SEDANO (11) is well bred and has an entry for the
Group 1 Prix du Jockey Club so would not be a surprise winner on debut. AKIDO (10) is also well
bred and lookd ready for this debut. MY SECRET LIGHT (2) has done best of the runners in this
race that have previous experience and could contest the finish again trying the turf. PIZ PALU
(9) is another well related newcomer that can score on debut.
SELECTIONS
SEDANO (11) – AKIDO (10) – MY SECRET LIGHT (2) – PIZ PALU (9)
RACE 2: DU HAUT-RHIN HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 2) – 2350M – TIME: 17:45 PRIZE MONEY: EUR16000
Summary: TREVOR SENORA (3) last won a handicap off a similar mark and has been in good
form of late. He is the one to be with. DREAM WUKAIR (5) has held form on the PSF of late. She
has won over this course and distance before and will be a serious threat. MANDOKI (2) has
struggled of late but is not out of it on best form. KALEOBAYANE (10) will be fitter this time and
can be competitive in this line-up.
SELECTIONS
TREVOR SENORA (3) – DREAM WUKAIR (5) – MANDOKI (2) – KALEOBAYANE (10)
RACE 3: DU BAS-RHIN HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 3) – 2350M – TIME: 18:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR18000
Summary: ZAMNESIA (7) has shown good improvement this year. She carries a 2.50kg penalty
for an easy last win but may well follow up. WARELIA (1) has done well around this distance so
perhaps her last two runs are best ignored. CANDYMAN (6) returns from a break but is very
consistent and can have a say in the finish again. JOLI COUP (5) needs to do more to win but is
capable of making the frame.
SELECTIONS
ZAMNESIA (7) – WARELIA (1) – CANDYMAN (6) – JOLI COUP (5)
RACE 4: DE HOERDT MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 4) – 2350M – TIME: 18:45 PRIZE MONEY: EUR13000
Summary: WINTERVOGEL (2) ran well in better fields than this last year and if fit from the break
can be ready to score. ZOEY (6) was unreliable in Germany but has not been too bad in two
French runs and can contest the finish. AMARANT (12) is well bred and can be a threat on his
debut. HOROS (13) also make his debut and has a winning chance in a weak race.
SELECTIONS
WINTERVOGEL (2) – ZOEY (6) – AMARANT (12) – HOROS (13)
RACE 5: DE LA SOREC STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 2) – 1000M – TIME: 19:00 PRIZE MONEY: EUR23000
Summary: GOLDEN BREEZE (3) has a taking profile and will be expected to make a bold show
on her debut. AL PASO (1) is one of only two colts in the line-up. He will be competitive and
should have speed from his Sire. NOARA FOR FUN (4) is bred for speed, her dam won over
sprint distances and this filly could be smart and is one to watch in the betting for clues.
LADY’ARMOR (8) is from a good stable and should be kept safe on her first day at school.
SELECTIONS
GOLDEN BREEZE (3) – AL PASO (1) – NOARA FOR FUN (4) – LADY’ARMOR (8)
RACE 6: DE LA SOCIETE DES COURSES DE CRAON STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 3) – 1200M – TIME: 19:31 PRIZE MONEY: EUR30000
Summary: KAADI (1) should have no concern with a slight drop back in trip and was a good
second in a Listed race on her last start earlier this month at Chantilly. She is preferred over
MAGICAL TRAIL (5) who won twice when trained by Charlie Appleby last year in the UK. She
can be competitive on her French debut. FELIX AUX ORMES (4) will be in a good frame of mind
after a win in a handicap last time and can be involved.
SELECTIONS
KAADI (1) – MAGICAL TRAIL (5) – FELIX AUX ORMES (4) – AWAITING CHRISTMAS (3)
RACE 7: DU GALOPPCLUB IFFEZHEIM HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 6) – 1400M – TIME: 19:47 PRIZE MONEY: EUR17000
Summary: CLAIM THE STARS (7) has improved of late and was a good winner at Chantilly in
February. He carries a 2kg penalty for that win but that may not be enough to stop him from
scoring again. MONSIEURVALCHOP (5) struggled back on the turf last time out but he takes a
drop in class and can be a big player. MIELA (4) hinted at a form return last time and could
contest the finish. NICE DREAM (2) will like it back on the grass and is not out of it.
SELECTIONS
CLAIM THE STARS (7) – MONSIEURVALCHOP (5) – MIELA (4) – NICE DREAM (2)
RACE 8: DU BASSIN D’ARCACHON LISTED STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 5) – 2000M – TIME: 20:40 PRIZE MONEY: EUR52000
Summary: KOVROV (5) could be the answer to this competitive race. He is a marginal
preference over the ultra-consistent DILAWAR (1) who does not know how to run a bad race. He
won a Listed race on his latest start in November and will be ready for this after a break. GOOD
GIFT (11) will have no fitness worries and was a good second in February in a Listed race last
time. BEVAN (9) makes up the shortlist.
SELECTIONS
KOVROV (5) – DILAWAR (1) – GOOD GIFT (11) – BEVAN (9)
RACE 9: DE LA SOCIETE DES COURSES DE TOULOUSE MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 6) – 1600M – TIME: 21:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR21000
Summary: JOKLA (7) caught the eye on her debut when she was third at Lyon Parilly last
September. She is preferred over MARQUES (1) who has been placed on all of her five starts.
Her latest start was when second at Toulouse in late February in a maiden race.
HONEYFLOWER (9) looks good on paper and can be expected to be involved. Her dam was a
useful performer. BLUE LILAS (6) has been placed on all three starts and looks like the each-way
option.
SELECTIONS
JOKLA (7) – MARQUES (1) – HONEYFLOWER (9) – BLUE LILAS (6)
RACE 10: JEAN-FRANCOIS BERNARD MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 7) – 1600M – TIME: 21:50 PRIZE MONEY: EUR21000
Summary: KAI LUNG (15) has been placed on three starts, the latter over 1600m when he was
second at Toulouse in late February. He can score from TIZIAN (10) who was a pleasing fourth at
Chantilly on his debut in early February. ARTISTIC MAN (5) was a decent fourth on debut and
with normal progress, he looks like a good option each way. CHARENGO (4) can improve from a
fourth at Pau on his debut.
SELECTIONS
KAI LUNG (15) – TIZIAN (10) – ARTISTIC MAN (5) – CHARENGO (4)
RACE 11: GAIA SECURITE HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 8) – 2400M – TIME: 22:32 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20000
Summary: EQUUS VINCIT (3) has been consistent with several placed runs since a win at
Parislongchamp in April 2023. He was a decent third over 2400m at Lyon La Soie in a Class 3
handicap in December. POCA GEN (1) heads the weights and won three runs back at Toulouse
in a Class 2 handicap in November. He could be the main threat. CHEESE (8) won on his latest
start and is the each-way must. NIKOLAJ (2) makes up the shortlist.
SELECTIONS
EQUUS VINCIT (3) – POCA GEN (1) – CHEESE (8) – NIKOLAJ (2)
RACE 12: DES PLAINES DE L’ARBOIS HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) (FROM PONT DE VIVAUX RACE 1) – 1500M – TIME: 23:07 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20000
Summary: KHARAMAZOV (6) won doing handstands last time out and despite rising in
company, he looks the part in this contest and can certainly win again. IRBIS (8) just found one
too good last time out but bumps into the right field and could make amends. On paper it appears
that he has one to beat. LOUIS DE LA KLAUSS (10) and TANIS (11) both finished behind the top
choice last time out and may battle to turn the form around but are capable of earning.
SELECTIONS
KHARAMAZOV (6) – IRBIS (8) – LOUIS DE LA KLAUSS (10) – TANIS (11)
RACE 13: DE BONNIEUX HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) (FROM PONT DE VIVAUX RACE 2) – 1500M – TIME: 23:42 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20000
Summary: SMILE FOR ME (2) produced a solid effort against stronger last time out and
continues to hold encouraging form. She gets weight off the back which will help, and she rates
the one to beat. PASSINGSHOT (3) continued to improve with each start in France and showed
up well when winning last time out. He has further scope for improvement and should be right on
top of them. TAVULLIA (8) has been a consistent performer and should be in the shake up once
again. STUNNING ANGEL (1) has run to better quality in the past and if on song, she could have
a say.
SELECTIONS
SMILE FOR ME (2) – PASSINGSHOT (3) – TAVULLIA (8) – STUNNING ANGEL (1)
RACE 1: DANY SCHNEIDER MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 1) – 2000M – TIME: 17:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR21000
Summary: An interesting opening race. SEDANO (11) is well bred and has an entry for the
Group 1 Prix du Jockey Club so would not be a surprise winner on debut. AKIDO (10) is also well
bred and lookd ready for this debut. MY SECRET LIGHT (2) has done best of the runners in this
race that have previous experience and could contest the finish again trying the turf. PIZ PALU
(9) is another well related newcomer that can score on debut.
SELECTIONS
SEDANO (11) – AKIDO (10) – MY SECRET LIGHT (2) – PIZ PALU (9)
RACE 2: DU HAUT-RHIN HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 2) – 2350M – TIME: 17:45 PRIZE MONEY: EUR16000
Summary: TREVOR SENORA (3) last won a handicap off a similar mark and has been in good
form of late. He is the one to be with. DREAM WUKAIR (5) has held form on the PSF of late. She
has won over this course and distance before and will be a serious threat. MANDOKI (2) has
struggled of late but is not out of it on best form. KALEOBAYANE (10) will be fitter this time and
can be competitive in this line-up.
SELECTIONS
TREVOR SENORA (3) – DREAM WUKAIR (5) – MANDOKI (2) – KALEOBAYANE (10)
RACE 3: DU BAS-RHIN HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 3) – 2350M – TIME: 18:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR18000
Summary: ZAMNESIA (7) has shown good improvement this year. She carries a 2.50kg penalty
for an easy last win but may well follow up. WARELIA (1) has done well around this distance so
perhaps her last two runs are best ignored. CANDYMAN (6) returns from a break but is very
consistent and can have a say in the finish again. JOLI COUP (5) needs to do more to win but is
capable of making the frame.
SELECTIONS
ZAMNESIA (7) – WARELIA (1) – CANDYMAN (6) – JOLI COUP (5)
RACE 4: DE HOERDT MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 4) – 2350M – TIME: 18:45 PRIZE MONEY: EUR13000
Summary: WINTERVOGEL (2) ran well in better fields than this last year and if fit from the break
can be ready to score. ZOEY (6) was unreliable in Germany but has not been too bad in two
French runs and can contest the finish. AMARANT (12) is well bred and can be a threat on his
debut. HOROS (13) also make his debut and has a winning chance in a weak race.
SELECTIONS
WINTERVOGEL (2) – ZOEY (6) – AMARANT (12) – HOROS (13)
RACE 5: DE LA SOREC STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 2) – 1000M – TIME: 19:00 PRIZE MONEY: EUR23000
Summary: GOLDEN BREEZE (3) has a taking profile and will be expected to make a bold show
on her debut. AL PASO (1) is one of only two colts in the line-up. He will be competitive and
should have speed from his Sire. NOARA FOR FUN (4) is bred for speed, her dam won over
sprint distances and this filly could be smart and is one to watch in the betting for clues.
LADY’ARMOR (8) is from a good stable and should be kept safe on her first day at school.
SELECTIONS
GOLDEN BREEZE (3) – AL PASO (1) – NOARA FOR FUN (4) – LADY’ARMOR (8)
RACE 6: DE LA SOCIETE DES COURSES DE CRAON STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 3) – 1200M – TIME: 19:31 PRIZE MONEY: EUR30000
Summary: KAADI (1) should have no concern with a slight drop back in trip and was a good
second in a Listed race on her last start earlier this month at Chantilly. She is preferred over
MAGICAL TRAIL (5) who won twice when trained by Charlie Appleby last year in the UK. She
can be competitive on her French debut. FELIX AUX ORMES (4) will be in a good frame of mind
after a win in a handicap last time and can be involved.
SELECTIONS
KAADI (1) – MAGICAL TRAIL (5) – FELIX AUX ORMES (4) – AWAITING CHRISTMAS (3)
RACE 7: DU GALOPPCLUB IFFEZHEIM HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM STRASBOURG RACE 6) – 1400M – TIME: 19:47 PRIZE MONEY: EUR17000
Summary: CLAIM THE STARS (7) has improved of late and was a good winner at Chantilly in
February. He carries a 2kg penalty for that win but that may not be enough to stop him from
scoring again. MONSIEURVALCHOP (5) struggled back on the turf last time out but he takes a
drop in class and can be a big player. MIELA (4) hinted at a form return last time and could
contest the finish. NICE DREAM (2) will like it back on the grass and is not out of it.
SELECTIONS
CLAIM THE STARS (7) – MONSIEURVALCHOP (5) – MIELA (4) – NICE DREAM (2)
RACE 8: DU BASSIN D’ARCACHON LISTED STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 5) – 2000M – TIME: 20:40 PRIZE MONEY: EUR52000
Summary: KOVROV (5) could be the answer to this competitive race. He is a marginal
preference over the ultra-consistent DILAWAR (1) who does not know how to run a bad race. He
won a Listed race on his latest start in November and will be ready for this after a break. GOOD
GIFT (11) will have no fitness worries and was a good second in February in a Listed race last
time. BEVAN (9) makes up the shortlist.
SELECTIONS
KOVROV (5) – DILAWAR (1) – GOOD GIFT (11) – BEVAN (9)
RACE 9: DE LA SOCIETE DES COURSES DE TOULOUSE MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 6) – 1600M – TIME: 21:15 PRIZE MONEY: EUR21000
Summary: JOKLA (7) caught the eye on her debut when she was third at Lyon Parilly last
September. She is preferred over MARQUES (1) who has been placed on all of her five starts.
Her latest start was when second at Toulouse in late February in a maiden race.
HONEYFLOWER (9) looks good on paper and can be expected to be involved. Her dam was a
useful performer. BLUE LILAS (6) has been placed on all three starts and looks like the each-way
option.
SELECTIONS
JOKLA (7) – MARQUES (1) – HONEYFLOWER (9) – BLUE LILAS (6)
RACE 10: JEAN-FRANCOIS BERNARD MAIDEN STAKES (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 7) – 1600M – TIME: 21:50 PRIZE MONEY: EUR21000
Summary: KAI LUNG (15) has been placed on three starts, the latter over 1600m when he was
second at Toulouse in late February. He can score from TIZIAN (10) who was a pleasing fourth at
Chantilly on his debut in early February. ARTISTIC MAN (5) was a decent fourth on debut and
with normal progress, he looks like a good option each way. CHARENGO (4) can improve from a
fourth at Pau on his debut.
SELECTIONS
KAI LUNG (15) – TIZIAN (10) – ARTISTIC MAN (5) – CHARENGO (4)
RACE 11: GAIA SECURITE HANDICAP (TURF TRACK) (FROM LA TESTE DE BUCH RACE 8) – 2400M – TIME: 22:32 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20000
Summary: EQUUS VINCIT (3) has been consistent with several placed runs since a win at
Parislongchamp in April 2023. He was a decent third over 2400m at Lyon La Soie in a Class 3
handicap in December. POCA GEN (1) heads the weights and won three runs back at Toulouse
in a Class 2 handicap in November. He could be the main threat. CHEESE (8) won on his latest
start and is the each-way must. NIKOLAJ (2) makes up the shortlist.
SELECTIONS
EQUUS VINCIT (3) – POCA GEN (1) – CHEESE (8) – NIKOLAJ (2)
RACE 12: DES PLAINES DE L’ARBOIS HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) (FROM PONT DE VIVAUX RACE 1) – 1500M – TIME: 23:07 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20000
Summary: KHARAMAZOV (6) won doing handstands last time out and despite rising in
company, he looks the part in this contest and can certainly win again. IRBIS (8) just found one
too good last time out but bumps into the right field and could make amends. On paper it appears
that he has one to beat. LOUIS DE LA KLAUSS (10) and TANIS (11) both finished behind the top
choice last time out and may battle to turn the form around but are capable of earning.
SELECTIONS
KHARAMAZOV (6) – IRBIS (8) – LOUIS DE LA KLAUSS (10) – TANIS (11)
RACE 13: DE BONNIEUX HANDICAP (FIBRESAND TRACK) (FROM PONT DE VIVAUX RACE 2) – 1500M – TIME: 23:42 PRIZE MONEY: EUR20000
Summary: SMILE FOR ME (2) produced a solid effort against stronger last time out and
continues to hold encouraging form. She gets weight off the back which will help, and she rates
the one to beat. PASSINGSHOT (3) continued to improve with each start in France and showed
up well when winning last time out. He has further scope for improvement and should be right on
top of them. TAVULLIA (8) has been a consistent performer and should be in the shake up once
again. STUNNING ANGEL (1) has run to better quality in the past and if on song, she could have
a say.
SELECTIONS
SMILE FOR ME (2) – PASSINGSHOT (3) – TAVULLIA (8) – STUNNING ANGEL (1)
South Africa Express Form & Race Previews (Turffontein / Durbanville) –...
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RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: TURFFONTEIN STANDSIDE / DURBANVILLE@2025.03.22
Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 1, Gallops, 1160m, Turf, R120.000, 11:50GMT+2
Race Summary: LITTLEMISSSPLENDID acquitted herself well on debut against male opposition, including former winners. She would’ve benefitted from that experience and with natural improvement should play a leading role at the finish. PRINCESS KEIRA also caught the eye when 4th in a feature last time and she needn’t improve much to have a say in the outcome. VANAKKAM, MATTER OF TRUST and DELAWARE RIVER are well-bred newcomers worth a market check on debut.
Selections: #3 LITTLEMISSSPLENDID, #9 VANAKKAM, #4 MATTER OF TRUST, #5 PRINCESS KEIRA
Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 2, Gallops, 1160m, Turf, R130.000, 12:25GMT+2
Race Summary: SIMBINE, CARNARVON and BLIZZARD QUEST would have come on appreciably after satisfactory debut outings and they should be competitive with natural improvement expected. ESTEEMED, SINGLETON SAM and WORLD ORDER are attractively bred so betting support would speak volumes of their chances on debut.
Selections: #5 SIMBINE, #3 ESTEEMED, #6 SINGLETON SAM, #2 CARNARVON
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 1, Gallops, 1250m, Turf, R125,000, 12:40GMT+2
RACE BY RACE PREVIEWS: TURFFONTEIN STANDSIDE / DURBANVILLE@2025.03.22
Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 1, Gallops, 1160m, Turf, R120.000, 11:50GMT+2
Race Summary: LITTLEMISSSPLENDID acquitted herself well on debut against male opposition, including former winners. She would’ve benefitted from that experience and with natural improvement should play a leading role at the finish. PRINCESS KEIRA also caught the eye when 4th in a feature last time and she needn’t improve much to have a say in the outcome. VANAKKAM, MATTER OF TRUST and DELAWARE RIVER are well-bred newcomers worth a market check on debut.
Selections: #3 LITTLEMISSSPLENDID, #9 VANAKKAM, #4 MATTER OF TRUST, #5 PRINCESS KEIRA
Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 2, Gallops, 1160m, Turf, R130.000, 12:25GMT+2
Race Summary: SIMBINE, CARNARVON and BLIZZARD QUEST would have come on appreciably after satisfactory debut outings and they should be competitive with natural improvement expected. ESTEEMED, SINGLETON SAM and WORLD ORDER are attractively bred so betting support would speak volumes of their chances on debut.
Selections: #5 SIMBINE, #3 ESTEEMED, #6 SINGLETON SAM, #2 CARNARVON
HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 1, Gallops, 1250m, Turf, R125,000, 12:40GMT+2
Race Summary: DUCHESS OF PALOMA ran a much better race behind Rahhabba on the 11th of February at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, she finds a winnable race on Saturday, and she gets the services of Luke Coleman, from a good draw, there should be no excuses for this filly, she will go very close to winning. JOUEUR DE FLUTE comes back to the track from a long rest and gelding, ignore his last run, if he doesn’t need the run badly and he gets some luck in running, he will have a big winning chance here. JOHNNY DRAMA improved nicely last time behind Dawn’s Early Light, he stayed on well with the blinkers fitted, if he can build on that performance, he could trouble them in the finish. STU’S GIRL is much better than her last run, she drops in trip and could sneak into the places.
Selections: #1 DUCHESS OF PALOMA, #5 JOUEUR DE FLUTE, #2 JOHNNY DRAMA, #6 STU’S GIRL
Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 3, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R120.000, 13:00GMT+2 Race Summary: OLD FASHIONED sets the standard on all exposed form and he needn’t improve a great deal to go one better after a last-start 2nd. RINGHO and TURF GURU are held by that rival but have earning potential. A bigger threat, however, will likely come from returning HEMISPHERE who is open to any amount of improvement on his reappearance. ALESIAN BEAU fits a similar profile so shouldn’t be taken lightly. Selections: #3 OLD FASHIONED, #2 HEMISPHERE, #6 RINGHO, #5 TURF GURU HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 2, Gallops, 1250m, Turf, R150,000, 13:15GMT+2Race Summary: GOOD FOR YOU ran a cracking race in the Grade 3 Cape Nursery last time behind Direct Hit, he gets a good draw here and the blinkers have been fitted, he will be very hard to beat. DIAMOND DAYS improved nicely to run a better race behind Pay The Palace on the 8th of March at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, he drops back in trip and gets the services of champion jockey Richard Fourie on Saturday, if he gets some luck in running from a wide draw, he could earn some money for the connections. SO AMERICAN comes back to the races from a break and gelding, he would need to improve quite a bit to win a race like this, but he has got experience on his side, and he has a good draw, he could run into the places at a decent price. There are some very well-bred first timers in the race, watch the market and watch them move down to the start.
Selections: #3 GOOD FOR YOU, #8 DIAMOND DAYS, #2 SO AMERICAN, #5 RANDOLPH HEARST
Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 4, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R120.000, 13:35GMT+2 Race Summary: Hard to look beyond DYLAN’S CHAMP who has been costly to follow but wouldn’t be winning out of turn. Filly SAUDI SWEEP, with a 3kg sex allowance, and returning OBSIDIAN, have shown enough to trouble the selection. Of the remainder, watch the betting on newcomer CANFORD CLUB. Selections: #1 DYLAN’S CHAMP, #9 SAUDI SWEEP, #2 OBSIDIAN, #6 CANFORD CLUB HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 3, Gallops, 1250m, Turf, R125,000, 13:50GMT+2Race Summary: CLIFFSCAPE has run two very good races in succession, she ran a lovely race behind a nice horse last time at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, she has the advantage of experience, her form is good, and she is still improving, she will be hard to beat. UNA THE UNICORN drifted badly in the market on debut, she was well beaten behind the very speedy Spacebound, the form of that race has worked out extremely well, she can only improve. ELECTROMAGNETISM finished seven lengths behind Military Command on debut, she will appreciate the step up in trip here, watch her closely for major improvement at a big price. WEDDING VOW is interesting, watch the market closely with this individual, she could be anything on debut.
Selections: #5 CLIFFSCAPE, #7 UNA THE UNICORN, #3 ELECTROMAGNETISM, #6 WEDDING VOW Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 5, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R105.000, 14:10GMT+2 Race Summary: CAPE SAFFRON put 3 lengths between herself and familiar foe WEARINGOFTHEGREEN over track and trip last time and a repeat of that performance should suffice. WINDS OF GRACE is likely to improve over this extended trip so should have a role to play in the Trifecta and Quartet. Highveld newcomer ART NOUVEAU and SUMMER WINTER complete the shortlist. Selections: #4 CAPE SAFFRON, #6 WEARINGOFTHEGREEN, #2 WINDS OF GRACE, #3 ART NOUVEAU HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 4, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R160,000, 14:25GMT+2Race Summary: CAPTAIN WEST ran a lovely race over 1200m behind Tenango on the 8th of February, he is a lovely looking horse with tons of ability, the yard is in good form, if he puts his best foot forward on Saturday, he will go very close to winning at a decent price. POWERANDTHEGLORY needed his last run badly, he was caught a long way back from a bad draw, and then stayed on well late behind Gallic Dream, he will improve tons from that run, include him into all bets. MAURITIUS KESTREL never runs a bad race, he has run behind some very smart horses through his career, again he must be respected in this tricky looking race. WE HAVE TOUCHDOWN is much better than his recent form, he will appreciate the step up in trip, watch him closely for big improvement on Saturday.
Selections: #6 CAPTAIN WEST, #1 POWERANDTHEGLORY, #2 MAURITIUS KESTREL, #4 WE HAVE TOUCHDOWN Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 6, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R105.000, 14:45GMT+2 Race Summary: Recent course-and-distance winner JUST VAR remains competitive for victory despite a 5-point penalty. However, it could pay to follow the progress of fellow last-start scorer FUTURENAIRE who is open to further improvement over this extended trip. TOKYO MEDAGLIA, another last-time-out scorer, class-dropper THERES A LIGHT and recent eye-catcher SIGRID SWING, who was a fast-finishing 3rd on the Inside track last time, are other with genuine podium ambitions. Selections: #4 FUTURENAIRE, #1 JUST VAR, #6 TOKYO MEDAGLIA, #2 SIGRID SWING HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 5, Gallops, 1400m, Turf, R100,000, 15:00GMT+2Race Summary: GOLDEN ANGEL ran a fair race behind My Only Weakness on the 22nd of February, she was dropped two points in the ratings after that last run, the yard has always held this filly in high regard, from a good draw in a weak looking race, she should be right there in the finish. GRIPEN was heavily supported in the market last time when finishing second behind Arbitration, there is no doubt he will have a massive winning chance in this Class 5 event. OZARK is much better than his recent form, unfortunately he was drawn poorly last time and never managed to get into the race, he should bounce back to his best form here from a good draw, watch him closely. IM THE BUZZ could sneak into the places on her best form, she has dropped in the ratings, and she has dropped in trip, watch for big improvement.
Selections: #4 GOLDEN ANGEL, #6 GRIPEN, #3 OZARK, #5 IM THE BUZZ
Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 7, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R130.000, 15:20GMT+2 Race Summary: ARISTOTLE caught the eye when 3rd in the Grade 2 Gauteng Guineas over track and trip on his Highveld introduction and need only repeat that performance in his peak outing to resume winning ways. KAMENSKY finished behind progressive last-start winner ROYAL FORCE last time but is weighted to avenge that defeat on the revised terms. ONE MORE STAR and stablemate STORM BRASCO have the means to get involved, as does well-weighted filly TOO LATE MY MATE. Good race. Selections: #1 ARISTOTLE, #4 KAMENSKY, #2 ROYAL FORCE, #5 ONE MORE STAR HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 6, Gallops, 1800m, Turf, R140,000, 15:40GMT+2Race Summary: REGULATION absolutely took off late to run a great second behind Green Garnet on the 22nd of February, he is a smart gelding that is improving with every run, he will love the step up in trip on Saturday afternoon, he should go very close to winning a race like this. KWITE A KING never runs a bad race, he stayed on really well behind La Pulga last time, he should be on the premises late with jockey Richard Fourie in the saddle from a good draw. DUBBELOSIX won his maiden exceptionally well on the 5th of March, he looks progressive and should keep improving with every start, he must be respected here. CHOLLIMA quickened up smartly to win a good race on the 11th of February at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, he was penalised six points for that victory, but jockey Ashton Arries knows him well and he could be competitive late.
Selections: #6 REGULATION, #1 KWITE A KING, #3 DUBBELOSIX, #2 CHOLLIMA Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 8, Gallops, 2000m, Turf, R160.000, 15:55GMT+2 Race Summary: APACHE SON, TOTAL SURRENDER and STAR COIN are closely matched on the form of a recent meeting but it could pay to side with the latter who is better off on these revised weight terms. Consistent stablemate BIRTHRIGHT also has legitimate eachway credentials under joint bottom weight. HAWKBILL, WHAFEEF and even FLASHY APACHE shouldn’t be underestimated. Selections: #4 STAR COIN, #6 APACHE SON, #5 WHAFEEF, #7 TOTAL SURRENDER HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 7, Gallops, 1600m, Turf, R125,000, 16:13GMT+2Race Summary: MY ONLY WEAKNESS finished strongly late to win well last time, she was only given two points for that victory, the blinkers have been removed on Saturday, if she gets some luck in running from a wide draw, she will have a good winning chance again. FAMILY POWER had absolutely no luck in running last time, she was taken up for several strides going through the 300m mark, unfortunately the draw won’t help her chances on Saturday, but she will be running on strongly, watch her late. FUN ZONE is as honest as they come, she needs a particular ride, if the race works out for her, she could easily trouble them in the finish. LADY LOOK ALIKE has dropped nicely in the ratings, she could be some value in what looks a tough race on paper.
Selections: #9 MY ONLY WEAKNESS, #11 FAMILY POWER, #4 FUN ZONE, #5 LADY LOOK ALIKE
Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 9, Gallops, 1160m, Turf, R200.000, 16:35GMT+2 Race Summary: KARATE KID was the subject of spirited betting support in a feature last time but fluffed his chances at the start. He shouldn’t be hastily condemned and could well make amends at the expense of former stable companion MOUNT PILATUS who joined his current yard after the Tommy Hotspur. QUANTUM THEORY and DREAMLAND have the form and experience to get into the picture, as do best-weighted stablemates MRS BROWNING and WINTER GREETING. Selections: #6 KARATE KID, #5 MOUNT PILATUS, #4 QUANTUM THEORY, #1 MRS BROWNING HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE, 22.03.2025, Race 8, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R90,000, 16:50GMT+2Race Summary: ELECTRIC FEELS ran on well from a long way back in her last start, she tries hard, her form is very good, there is no doubt she will be attacking the line hard from a nice draw. CHAMPAGNE MAC ran a decent race last time with the blinkers on, he is currently racing off a dangerous rating, if he can beat the draw here, he will be right there in the finish. COUNTRY TIME moved up like a winner in her last start behind Try Me, she must be respected off this rating of 53, she will be stalking the speed and running on powerfully late. POETIC PRINCESS won a good enough race last time in PE, she was heavily supported in the market and got the job done, now that she has that confidence booster under the belt, she could certainly improve even further, include her into all bets.
Selections: #3 ELECTRIC FEELS, #8 CHAMPAGNE MAC, #5 COUNTRY TIME, #6 POETIC PRINCESS Turffontein Standside, 22.03.2025, Race 10, Gallops, 1000m, Turf, R90.000, 17:05GMT+2 Race Summary: Many with chances in a big field, though none appeals more than consistent PACIFIC who wouldn’t be winning out of turn after a fast-finishing and close-up 3rd on the Inside track last time. IN THE ETHER, SAMOA, DANCING DORA and TWICE AS WILD are hard-knocking veteran mares with the form and experience at this level to also play leading roles. Selections: #7 PACIFIC, #5 SAMOA, #9 DANCING DORA, #1 IN THE ETHER Best Win: #1 DYLAN’S CHAMP #3 GOOD FOR YOU Best Value Bet: #4 STAR COIN #4 GOLDEN ANGEL Best Longshot: #4 STAR COIN #6 CAPTAIN WEST
Australia – Sunday 23 March
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| Hobart | |
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| Pinjarra | |
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Australia – Saturday 22 March
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| Ascot | |
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| Eagle Farm | |
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| Rosehill | |
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Australia – Sunday 16 March
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| Albany | |
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| Coonamble | |
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| Sunshine Coast | |
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