Wednesday 14 May 2025
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EYES ON
THE JULY!
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PAVING THE PATH TO
JULY v
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Plattner Flag Flies Selukwe sets his sights on 5 July
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In Winning Form Serino in the hot seat
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Stallions, Chart Toppers & Legacies A trip to 1988 with Oscar Foulkes
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Top Speeds Clocked At 1900 This week’s Time Is Money
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Teetan On Top Of World Shergar Cup countdown
On the cover
In the spotlight - Winning Form-sponsored rider Serino Moodley and Selukwe after an explosive performance in Saturday’s WSB Gr3 1900 at Hollywoodbets Greyville. The 5yo son of Pomodoro, Selukwe scored a career peak success under Serino, who appears to enjoy a special affinity with the winner. Read more on 24. Candiese Lenferna took the photo
Issue: 19/2025
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BOOTS ON THE MOON! Rachel Venniker proved a hit last Saturday as a guest presenter on Gallop TV at Hollywoodbets Greyville on the WSB 1900 raceday. South Africa’s only female jockey is currently out of action after breaking her leg in an accident at Summerveld last month. She is recovering at the Venniker family home and is likely to be off for five to six months. Candiese Lenferna took the photograph.
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EAST CAPE
GIVE JULY THEIR
BEST SHOT!
Delighted connections of My Best Shot (Richard Fourie) after the WSB East Cape Derby last Friday – they will be hoping to repeat this pose at Hollywoodbets Greyville on 5 July! | Credit: Pauline Herman
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The last Gqeberha connected horse to win the Hollywoodbets Durban July was the Ascot Stud-bred Bold Silvano who won the big one in 2010 under the Mike de Kock flag. After 49 entries stood their ground at first
• Public gallops on Thursday 26 June at 07h00.
declaration stage for the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Monday, two supplementary
• The final chance to supplement an entry for
entries were filed on Tuesday 13 May.
the big race closes at 11h00 on Tuesday 17 June.
Alan Greeff’s recent Eastern Cape ‘Triple Crown’ star My Best Shot (111) and the Lucky
Please click to see the 49 who stood their
Houdalakis galloper Musical Score (112), a 3yo
ground at first declaration stage.
son of Oratorio, and a winner of his last two starts, are the two newbies in the traditional
The following entries reflect as scratched from
chase for ultimate honours in SA horseracing.
the original 61.
A reminder that the Hollywoodbets Durban
• Cape Eagle
July public gallops will be held at 07h00 on
• Champagne Cocktail
Thursday 26 June at Hollywoodbets Greyville.
• Red Palace • Bristol Hercules
The Hollywoodbets Durban July timeline:
• La Pulga • Fire Attack
• Second declarations close at 11h00 on
• I Salute You
Monday, 9 June.
• My Soul Mate • The Ultimate King
• Final supplementary entries close at 11h00
• Kamensky
on Tuesday, 17 June, on which date the
• Barbaresco
weights will be published.
• Without Question
• Final field and draw announcement will take
A final field of 20 horses will be carded (18 + 2
place on Tuesday, 24 June.
Reserves).
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Bold Silvano (Anthony Delpech) – the last East Cape connection to win the big one | Credit: Supplied
The Reserves to be scratched by 08h15 on
Ed – read more about My Best Shot’s Derby
Friday 4 July. Elimination will be at the sole and
win on page 49.
unfettered discretion of Gold Circle.
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Serino Moodley and Selukwe storm clear to an eyecatching victory | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
THIS COULD BE
THE PLATTNER TEAM’S YEAR!
A staunch investor in South Africa and our racing and breeding for many decades, Sabine Plattner was denied a victory in Africa’s greatest race when Angus went down a head to the champion filly Ipi Tombe back in 2002. While the son of Northern Guest went on to
While it’s early days yet, the Andre Nel yard,
win the Met the following year, and the Plattner
under the KZN satellite management of
flag has enjoyed plenty of Grade 1 success,
Assistant Byron Foster, may have unearthed
including another massive day when Martial
a genuine contender for top honors on 5 July
Eagle stormed home to win the Cape flagship
in the shape of the 5yo Selukwe who scored a
in 2013, the much-prized Hollywoodbets
career peak success under Serino Moodley in
Durban July trophy has remained an elusive
Saturday’s R500 000 World Sports Betting Gr3
dream.
1900. 14 MAY 2025 | 11
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In the winner’s circle – Serino Moodley with World Sports Betting’s Steve Karam | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
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A son of Sean Tarry’s 2012 Durban July star
a time of 115,38 secs for the 1900m.
Pomodoro, Selukwe is a Plattner home-bred who only won 1 of his first 12 starts before the
There was plenty of emotional irony in the
penny appeared to drop almost a year ago at
victory as Serino Moodley, who really appears
Hollywoodbets Scottsville when winning a lowly
to enjoy a special affinity with the winner, had
MR 78 handicap.
received a substantial fine and a two-week holiday for exceeding the crop use limit by one
Since that 19 May day, the gelding has cracked
strike when Selukwe had gone down narrowly
a total of 5 wins with 4 places from his 12 starts,
to I Salute You in the Listed Sledgehammer at
never finishing more than 2,40 lengths off the
his previous start.
winner. The only current non Hollywoodbets Durban July On Saturday he registered a maiden stakes
entry in the field, Underworld (7-1) finished best
victory in a race that has generally been a fair
of the Snaith quartet to run third a further 0,30
pointer to Hollywoodbets Durban July success.
lengths back, with stablemate Okavango (11-2), who was apparently running 17kgs over his
In a fourteen-horse field dominated on the
previous Cape fitness, making up some ground for
betting boards by the Cape visitors, Selukwe
fourth, after a notable drift on the betting boards.
was relaxed at the rear as Indian Ocean, and
Trainer Justin Snaith has regularly bemoaned
the well backed Holding Thumbs, led the
the lack of work opportunities in the province.
charge. Of the balance of the ten Hollywoodbets Third last turning for home, the 5yo gelding
Durban July entries, Highveld raider Thunee
was angled out and lengthened his stride
Playa (50-1) finished next best in fifth and 4,10
impressively as Narina Trogon looked
lengths off the winner.
dangerous. He was followed by Shoot The Rapids (4,30 But inside the final 250m it was pay-pay as
lengths), I Salute You (4,90 lengths), defending
Selukwe (16-1) stormed clear to hold the
champion Future Swing (6,30 lengths), Native
gallant Narina Trogon (25-2) by 2,20 lengths in
Ruler (6,40 lengths), Infinite Winder (7 lengths), 14 MAY 2025 | 13
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On the podium – Steve Karam and Byron Foster | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
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the winner’s stablemate Cape Eagle (7,60
have been a reality check for a number of
lengths), the well-backed Holding Thumbs
hopefuls today.
(9,20 lengths), Madison Valley (10,60 lengths),
Justin Snaith will be thoroughly pleased though
and pacemaker Indian Ocean, who ran last and
that his lowest rated entrant, Regulation, won
11 lengths back.
the Class 4 1900m contest a half hour later in the fashion of a really promising 3yo. He is not
Bred by La Plaisance Stud, Selukwe is a son
likely, though, to be taking on his big-hitting
of Pomodoro (Jet Master) out of the Captain Al
stablemates Eight On Eighteen and Sail The
mare Sovereign Flo.
Seas in the Daily News 2000.
He has won 6 races with 10 places from 23
• First declarations for the Hollywoodbets
starts for stakes of R844 025.
Durban July closed at 11h00 on Monday. • First supplementary entries closed at 11h00
The Champions Season action takes a break
on Tuesday, 13 May
for two weeks, with the Gr1 Daily News 2000
• Second declarations close at 11h00 on
and Tote Gr2 Woolavington 2000 headlining
Monday, 9 June
the racemeeting at Hollywoodbets Greyville on
• Final supplementary entries for the big race
Saturday 24 May.
close at 11h00 on Tuesday, 17 June, on which date the weights will be published.
The Hollywoodbets Durban July dream sands
• The final field and draw announcement will
of time are slowly running out after what will
take place on Tuesday, 24 June.
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Selukwe’s victory in the WSB Gr3 1900 added further lustre to a great family | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
SELUKWE IGNITING GOLDEN MEMORIES OF YESTERDAY
When Selukwe carried Sabine Plattner’s familiar silks to victory in last weekend’s Gr3 World Sports Betting 1900, he added further lustre to a female family which stretches all the way back to the fine racemare Arctic Sweep, who, we are sure, will be remembered by KZN racegoers of a more vintage era. An own-sister to the great Renounce, this
As good as her race record was, she far
Karoo-bred was leased to well-known KZN
surpassed it as a broodmare, producing
owner and breeder Des Scott for whom she
nine winners from as many runners, while
won nine races, the highlight of which was
achieving lasting fame as the dam of three
her victory in the Gr1 Garden Province Stakes
exceptional Gr1 winners, a feat which earned
under ‘Tiger’ Wright.
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She made an immediate impact with her first
champion jockey Pat Eddery for trainer Fred
foal High Frequency, the result of a mating to
Rickaby.
Hartford Stud’s Middle Park winner Masham. Campaigned by the larger-than-life figure of
Selukwe descends from her own-sister
Cyril Hurvitz and trained by Buller Benton, he
Amberflo, who features as his fifth dam.
won the Smirnoff Plate (now Gold Medallion)
Amberflo never raced and produced just
as a two-year-old and matured into a sprinter
three foals, all fillies, one of which being
of the highest order, also winning the Gr2
Goldenflo, by Jungle Cove, so technically a
Durban Merchants.
three-part sister in blood to Arctic Cove.
Arctic Sweep’s finest foal was arguably Arctic Cove, a son of Jungle Cove. Trained by the legendary Terrance Millard, he proved himself amongst the leading colts of his generation as a Gr1
Successful in the
‘When Selukwe carried Sabine Plattner’s familiar silks to victory in last weekend’s Gr3 World Sports Betting 1900, he added further lustre to a female family which stretches all the way back to the fine racemare Arctic Sweep’
winner of the Met,
Gr3 Breeders Fillies Champion Stakes at two, Goldenflo eventually retired to the Kahan family’s The Alchemy, where she bred no less than five stakes performers and achieved lasting
Cape Derby and Champion Stakes, was
fame as the dam of Flobayou, who dominated
runner-up in the Cape Guineas, Schweppes
the sprint division in the mid-nineties to the
Challenge and Queen’s Plate and finished
extent that he was named Joint Horse of the
third twice in the Rothmans July.
Year in 1995.
Rounding out Arctic Sweep’s trio of Gr1
Trained by Eric Sands for Sir Robert Bellinger,
winners was the Ambiopoise filly Forever
this grand stamp of a horse lifted three
Amber, whose career haul included the then
champion sprinter titles and scored 18 times
Gr1 Natal Fillies Guineas under English
from three to seven, amongst which three
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Goldenflo achieved lasting fame as the dam of Flobayou, who dominated the sprint division in the mid-nineties to the extent that he was named Joint Horse of the Year in 1995 | Credit: Supplied
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renewals each of the Gr1 Mercury Sprint, Gr2
Betting Guineas and Gr3 Lebelo Sprint; and
Merchants and Gr2 Diadem Stakes. Truly a
Gr3 Cape Nursery third Mr Crumford.
horse for the ages. Now rising 18, Sovereign Flo is alive and well Half-brother Royal Flo was no slouch either,
and living at Sabine Plattner’s La Plaisance,
winning the Gr2 SA Invitation Stakes and
where Selukwe was born and raised.
reaching the frame in both the Gr1 SA Guineas and Daily News 2000.
Stud manager Morne de Villiers is understandably delighted with the five-year-
However, it is their half-sister Foverflo who is
old’s 1900 win.
of interest here, as she became the third dam of Selukwe. Sired by Foveros, she too lacked
“Thankfully he found a gap and his turn of
nothing in talent and strutted her stuff on the
foot got him there,” he commented on the
racetrack, landing the Gr3 Sceptre Stakes
race.
and running second to Jallad in the Gr2 Durban Merchants.
Elaborating on Sovereign Flo, he remarked: “She hasn’t given us a foal for the last three
Her broodmare career was sadly limited to
years and we were toying with the idea of
just four foals, three colts and a filly named
retiring her, but she is in such great nick, we
Final Flo, a winner of three races up to
may just have one final crack with her.”
1200m. She too returned to her birthplace The Alchemy, where she bred Gr2 Golden
As for Selukwe, he now has his sights firmly
Slipper runner-up Let It Flo.
on the Hollywoodbets Durban July where he will bid to emulate his own sire Pomodoro,
In contrast, Final Flo’s Captain Al daughter
who captured the historical race thirteen
Sovereign Flo showed little on the track,
years ago.
but in the paddocks did her bit to maintain family honours as the dam of three stakes performers: Selukwe, Supreme Warrior, who was runner-up in both the Gr2 World Sports 22 | 14 MAY 2025
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All smiles – Byron Foster and Serino Moodley enjoy a chat post the win | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
SERINO
‘I’D GO TO WAR WITH SELUKWE’ In an often no holds barred and cut-throat competitive world, the palpable emotion shown by Winning Form-sponsored jockey Serino Moodley, as he quelled the adrenaline rush on the WSB Gr3 1900 winner’s podium at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Saturday, was both refreshing and special. The 27-year-old Serino had just partnered the
often-rocky road to the Hollywoodbets Durban
Sabine Plattner-owned Selukwe to a scintillating
July.
victory for the Rondeberg-based Andre Nel and his team in the WSB 1900, a race that history
Chatting to the Sporting Post on Monday, the
shows can be a potential game-changer on the
quietly spoken Serino, a man who is seldom
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seen saluting at the finish, explained the
horseman like Byron Foster even realizes what
host of emotions at play on a big day when
a pivotal role he plays in my professional life,”
riding for a powerful yard.
adds Serino as he chats about an association that he clearly values deeply.
“Riding for a top yard is not a right – it’s a privilege and I absolutely never forget what Mrs
“I have made mistakes in a race but can come
Plattner and her entire team have done for me
back and tell Byron, without making stupid
over the years. They gave me a break when
excuses. He doesn’t hold it against me or dish
I was knocking at unanswered doors. The
out punishment. He says it’s in the past, let’s
loyalty has been amazing – I don’t think a top
learn from it and look ahead. The loyalty and
An emotional Serino Moodley after the WSB 1900 victory on Saturday | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
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integrity is absolutely mind-blowing. And I am
the Joburg Academy. In a matter of months,
already hard on myself! But the support instills
Diego (de Gouveia) and I were race riding as
such enormous confidence and I want to do
apprentices in Zimbabwe.”
my best and more. That’s why I am focused – failure is not the end of the world, but it’s also
While in Zimbabwe, a more mature Serino says
not really an option for me!”
his confidence grew. He rode his first winner – Princess Kate – for present day Snaith Assistant
The Meyersdal-raised Serino tells how he
trainer Gokhan Terzi, and also bagged another
joined the SA Jockey Academy in 2012
three.
alongside Diego de Gouveia, Callan Murray and Tristan Godden.
He returned to South Africa in 2016, but things were not easy.
“I wasn’t much of a student or sportsman at school – I suppose that’s why I became a
“In five months, I only had four rides, I think.
jockey,” he laughs as he told of a tough initial
But Byron Foster and Andre Nel gave me a
experience.
chance. That’s why I am proudly talking to you today, almost nine years later!” he adds.
“I was just too young and immature in my first
Serino came out of his time in 2019 and with
year and battled to adapt. I left the Academy
the Winning Form backing he had the world at
at the end of that same year and went back
his feet.
home.” “I must also thank Winning Form for the great But a job riding work at the James Maree
moral and team support and the privilege of
school saw him recognised by legendary
having me in their stable. The association with
now retired SA Hall Of Fame trainer, Ormond
an industry-leading brand is a confidence-
Ferraris.
booster in itself. I hope I can make them proud as the Champions Season ticks over.”
“Mr. Ferraris asked me why I am not raceriding. I explained what happened. What an
Beyond Selukwe and his scope for greater
amazing man he is. He wrote to Martin Ball at
things this season, Serino has enjoyed a
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few highlights, including that extraordinary
can get down to 50kgs for a quality ride. He is
runaway 21,25 length win by Run Rhino Run
also keen to ride overseas but wants to grow
at Hollywoodbets Greyville in October 2017.
as an accomplished rider here on African soil. “I learn every day in this wonderful sport,” he
“That was an unbelievable race. We intended to
quips modestly.
give him a chance, but he was so determined, and I decided not to fight him. We were in two
A very private person, Serino shares that he
different races – the jockey leading the second
and his wife, a stay-at-home Mom, live with
pack assumed I was out of the race as we were
their two young children in Hillcrest. The Cityhill
all over the place. That horse was a character –
Church is an important focal point for the
but had rocks in his head, and stamina!”
family.
Serino’s first Grade 1 winner also came at
Serino tells that when he is riding in KZN
Hollywoodbets Greyville when the Robbie Hill-
on a Sunday, his day starts by attending the
trained longshot Pearl Of Asia won the 2021
morning service.
Gr1 Mercury Sprint. “I ride work 6 days in an average week, and Asked how his season has developed so far,
we try and live a balanced and private life as a
Serino says a few suspensions have slowed
family as is possible. My Mom and Dad are in
his progress. He currently stands on 49
Joburg, and they are my biggest fans. I sadly
winners.
lost my Uncle Cedric this year – he really was my most fanatical and proud supporter.”
“My focus is on riding more feature winners at this stage. I am happy to travel for rides in other
Serino’s younger brother Tristan is an
provinces and have done so for a number of
apprentice in New Zealand and doing very well
trainers. But it’s very competitive out there!” he
for himself.
laughs. “My brother was a work rider at James Maree’s Probably the best value lightweight jockey in
establishment, and he was signed up by
South Africa, Serino walks around at 52kgs but
Donovan Mansour. I watch his race replays as 14 MAY 2025 | 27
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the time difference makes it awkward.”
So how good is Selukwe and can we expect to see him line up in the Hollywoodbets
And what about Selukwe, and his
Durban July?
extraordinary low-key rise up the pecking order.
“Well that is Mrs Plattner and Andre Nel’s decision. It was tough to get off Cape Eagle,
“Eight months ago, he was racing off a 79. I
but Selukwe is an amazing horse – I’d honestly
attribute every ounce of this wonderful horse’s
go to war with him!”
upward mobility to Byron Foster. He is an absolute master. What a team they are – Andre
Selukwe is currently quoted at 25-1 in the
Nel, Hayley Crawford, Callan Dixon, and all
Hollywoodbets Durban July ante-post betting.
of their staff. There is such a great vibe at the
Prices are subject to change.
yard. Everybody knows what they are doing, and they go about it with heart and passion. An amazing team.”
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Raymond Danielson has Ziyasha in control as Athandiwe Mgudlwa (obscured) delivers Hithemhardsunshine late for a Hollywood Racing 1-2 | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
RAFEEF’S BAREFOOT BOMBER
BOUNCES BACK! A 4yo who showed an early penchant for Hollywoodbets Greyville, the Ridgemont bred Rafeef gelding Ziyasha bounced back unshod from a 24week break to win the R185 000 KRA Cup at the Theatre Of Champions on Saturday. The Korea Racing Authority has maintained
into stride after a champagne opening a week
close ties with South African racing over many
earlier.
years and after their representatives visited the Cape during the week, they attended the WSB
The R185 000 KRA Cup was run as an A
1900 raceday as the Champions Season got
Stakes contest over 1000m and produced a
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memorable finish for the red-hot Hollywood
November and powered on to hold off the
Racing team who had the pleasure of
revitalised Hithemhardsunshine (100-1) by
watching their flagbearers run 1-2 -4, the trio
0,90 lengths in a time of 58,92 secs for the
from different stables.
1000m.
Unleashed late in the race by Raymond
Future Variety (8-1) took off late for third, with
Danielson, Ziyasha (8-1) showed no ill effects
tote favourite Luhamba Phambili (5-2) capping
after his enforced break after winning the
the quartet.
Bantry Bay Stakes in Cape Town during
Raymond Danielson, Hollywood Racing’s Anthony Delpech and trainer Clinton Binda enjoy the moment Credit: Candiese Lenferna
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Trainer Clinton Binda explained that his charge
winning Kingmambo mare Kelly’s Olympics.
developed an abscess in his foot during the Cape summer where his connections had
One of the highest rated non-stakes winners
Grade 1 aspirations.
in the country, Ziyasha is now a winner of 6 races with 9 places from his 20 starts.
“Thanks to all at Hollywood Racing and to my team. We put pressure on ourselves and this
Ziyasha took his stakes bank to R657 494 after
horse. Now we look forward to the Golden
today’s victory.
Horse Sprint,” added the Highveld conditioner. He cost R325 000 at the National Yearling Winning Form-sponsored jockey Raymond
Sale.
Danielson said that Ziyasha felt good and much better than when he won on him at
We are likely to see Ziyasha’s name in the mix
Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. He indicated that
when entries for the R1 million Gr2 Golden
he was of the opinion that there was a lot
Horse Sprint open on Friday 23 May. The race
more to come from the gelding – which bodes
will be run at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on
well for the balance of this season.
Saturday 31 May.
Bred by Ridgemont, and a second winner on the day for their super sire Rafeef (Redoute’s Choice), Ziyasha is out of the four-time
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HOLLYWOOD RACING ON THE POLY
Ibutho (Calvin Habib) wins the lucky last, making it four on the day for Hollywood Racing | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
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The opening day of racing on the revamped and upgraded Hollywoodbets Greyville polytrack last Wednesday proved a memorable one for all stakeholders, and for the Hollywood Racing team in particular, who celebrated four winners with four different trainers. After the announcement of the dawn of a new
group, Saturday’s SA Champions Season
era in KZN racing last Thursday, following
launch signified a champagne milestone, and
the approval by the KwaZulu-Natal Economic
this was followed in short time by the relaunch
Regulatory Authority of the acquisition of Gold
of the upgraded polytrack at the Theatre Of
Circle by the Hollywood Sportsbook Holdings
Champions on Wednesday.
Trainer Alyson Wright and Hollywood Racing Manager Anthony Delpech lead in Calvin Habib and Ibutho Credit:Candiese Lenferna
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On an eventful afternoon, the Hollywood
to the last race of the day
Racing team took their lifetime total to 655 winners after they visited the winner’s circle
Asked by Gallop TV on-course presenter
four times.
Warren Lenferna whether he would be celebrating after races, Hollywood Racing
Sean Veale booted home the first two legs of
manager Anthony Delpech said that they were
a genuine hat-trick when the Peter Muscutt
thrilled to have enjoyed a red-letter day on the
trained Gimemethegreenlight filly Woza Nawe
new racing surface but would keep the big
won the third.
celebrations for the Gr1 winners!
Mike and Mathew de Kock saddled Trois Trois
Dean Kannemeyer, who saddled the good-
Quatre who celebrated a hard-earned victory
looking Arvernian Goddess to an overdue
in the fourth. The son of Rafeef got his head
second win, summed up the general
down where it mattered most to register his fifth
consensus after the day’s racing.
victory. “It’s wonderful to see that they can now run on Apprentice Jacey Botes is growing in
from any position. That makes for much fairer
confidence and he rode a confident race after
racing and it’s encouraging for all stakeholders.
a shaky beginning to cap the hat-trick on
Well done to Gold Circle and Hollywoodbets
Eventidor to win the fifth. The son of Elusive
for making these things happen. Racing will
Fort is now a five-time winner and was good
be the winner at the end of the day,” added
winner for a thrilled Siboniso Ngcobo, who is
Kannemeyer.
enjoyed a good run with his small string.
Alyson Wright brought the 7yo soldier Ibutho to races in fine fettle and the gelding clearly grows another leg on the polytrack! The son of Duke Of Marmalade benefitted from a finely judged and supremely determined ride by Calvin Habib to pip Masterbling in a grandstand finish 14 MAY 2025 | 37
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PROTEST ACTION
TWO MORE JOCKEYS SIGN AOG Richard Fourie – signed an AOG | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
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In a further sequel to the jockey protest on 26 March 2025 that led to the abandonment of the racemeeting of that afternoon, Richard Fourie and Oswald Noach have joined their colleague JP van der Merwe and have signed respective individual admissions of guilt. Following the action of 26 March, the jockeys
The Sporting Post learns that an Inquiry has
present at the protest in support of an interim
been set down for Monday 19 May, where the
suspension placed on Grant van Niekerk were
balance of the jockeys charged in the protest
charged with a contravention of Rule 72.1.27
action will face the music.
in that they, as riders who were carded to participate in scheduled races, and without
We believe that the Acknowledgement Of
any lawful justification, were party to a protest
Guilt option of the R100 000 fine, with a 50%
action which resulted in the abandonment of
suspension and the five year condition, was
the race meeting.
offered by the NHA to all the jockeys. JP van der Merwe stepped forward late last month.
On Tuesday 13 May 2025 Fourie and Noach signed an Admission of Guilt and thus received
The matter is now in the hands of the Inquiry
a monetary fine of R100 000 each. R50 000 of
Board, and it remains to be seen whether some
the total was suspended for a period of five
of the other jockeys involved step up and go
years on condition that they are individually not
the AOG route, or face the Inquiry Board, where
found guilty of contravening Rule 72.1.27, for
the penalty could well vary.
the next five years.
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Credit: Candiese Lenferna
GOLD CIRCLE’S
NEW BOARD ANNOUNCED Following the acquisition of Gold Circle (Pty) Ltd by Hollywood Racing Enterprises (Pty) Ltd (Hollywood), a shareholders meeting was held on 2 May 2025. At the meeting, the following Directors were
hold until the conclusion of the Champions
appointed to the Board of Gold Circle:
Season on 31 July 2025.
• Suren Rampersadh • Zandile Maseko
The Board requested Mr Naidoo to accept this
• Morgan Shandu
position in recognition of the part that he has
• Greg Bortz
played throughout the transition.
• Sadha Naidoo
At the same meeting, Mr Greg Bortz was appointed as the Chairman Designate, to take
Subsequently, at a meeting of Directors held on
office on 1 August 2025.
7 May 2025, Mr Sadha Naidoo was appointed Chairman of Gold Circle, an office that he will
• Media release by Gold Circle on 7 May 2025. 14 MAY 2025 | 43
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CRS TWO-YEAR-OLD SALE:
2025 ENTRIES NOW OPEN!
In a media release on Monday, 12 May, Cape Racing Sales announced that entries are now open for the highly anticipated Cape Racing Sales Two-YearOld Sale, taking place on Saturday, 25 October 2025. The timing of this sale is crucial for the horses
class performer topped the 2023 sale at
who require more time in the paddock and to
R1 400 000.
mature. The son of One World was a dominant force It responds to the growing demand from buyers at two, winning both the Gr3 Cape Of Good seeking high-quality stock ready for training.
Hope Nursery and Gr3 Winter Nursery,
Cape Racing Sales is offering a dedicated
and then continued to excel at three with
platform that meets this need, with a curated
victories in the L’Ormarins Gr1 King’s Plate,
catalogue of juveniles from many of South
Hollywoodbets Gr1 Cape Guineas, and Gr2
Africa’s most prominent breeders and
Cape Punters Cup. With career earnings
consignors.
exceeding R4.3 million, One Stripe stands as a flagship graduate of this sale.
Last year’s sale experienced a diverse buyer bench and sales-topping prices, so the 2025
Other notable performers include Frances
edition is expected to draw strong interest once
Ethel, winner of the 2024 Wilgerbosdrift
again.
Bridget Oppenheimer Gr2 SA Oaks, who was purchased for R220 000 at the 2022
Entries close on Monday, 04 August 2025,
sale. Fellow graduates Coastal Commander,
and due to limited capacity and high demand,
Dixieland Band, and Winter Snap have also
consignors are urged to enter early.
gone on to earn black type and multiple wins, reinforcing the quality available at this sale.
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Justin Vermaak, Racing and Bloodstock
Hollywoodbets Durbanville remains the ideal
Executive for Cape Racing, commented:
venue for this progressive and vibrant sale.”
“Last year’s two-year-old division was one of the strongest we’ve seen in recent seasons,
Entry forms and full information are available at
and it confirmed the importance of offering a
www.caperacingsales.co.za or by contacting
focused platform for unbroken juveniles. The
Vicky Minott at vicky@caperacingsales.co.za.
2025 Two-Year-Old Sale will provide buyers with access to horses of real depth and potential.
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Richard Fourie steers My Best Shot to a historic win | Credit: Pauline Herman
GREEFF 3YO FIRING ON ALL CYLINDERS
WHAT’S NEXT? Alan Greeff and Varsfontein Stud celebrated a feature double at Fairview on Friday with the Fire Away gelding My Best Shot making history in scintillating style as the first horse to win the local ‘Triple Crown’ and bank a R250 000 bonus in the process. The Nelson Mandela Bay Racing Sophomore
Derby, which was run over 2400m on Friday.
Challenge is a testing series for three-year-olds,
It is no mean feat to win at feature level from
which comprises the 1400m Ibhayi Stakes, the
1400m to 2400m, but My Best Shot proved
1600m East Cape Guineas, and culminates in the
equal to the task and set himself up for East
R350 000 World Sports Betting Listed East Cape
Cape Horse Of The Year honours as he swept 14 MAY 2025 | 51
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through down the middle under Richard Fourie
A R120 000 Cape Yearling Sale graduate,
at 11-10 to beat Cape raider Ardabil (9-4) by
My Best Shot is a half-brother to the region’s
5,25 lengths in a time of 148,42 secs.
Champion 2yo colt of 2022/23 Questor and was bred by Varsfontein Stud.
A stablemate to the winner and the first filly home, First Wish (25-1) ran on into third all of
He is a gelded son of Wilgerbosdrift’s War
1,75 lengths off the runner-up, with another
Front stallion Fire Away out of the twice-winning
Greeff charge in Mister Speaker (25-1) capping
Fort Wood mare, Gypsy Madonna.
the quartet.
Raced in partnership of racing stalwarts in Nick & Val McFall, Greg Blank, Gary Piha, Hilton Yutar, Darryl Yutar, and the trainer and his wife, Glennifer, the winner registered his 9th victory with 5 places from 15 starts for stakes of R847 975. This total does not include the R250 000 Triple Crown bonus,
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Anotherdanceforme (Andrew Fortune) cruises home for Listed Dahlia Plate glory | Credit: Pauline Herman
CANDYMAN RETURNS TO THE BAY WITH FEATURE WINNER
East Cape Nursery winner Anotherdanceforme maintained her impeccable record from her four starts when she ran out a facile winner under Andrew Fortune of the R175 000 World Sports Betting Listed Dahlia Plate at Fairview on Friday. The Candyman last rode in Gqeberha on
Relaxed two lengths off the gallop early, the
19 May 2017, booting home the Sail From
Peter Moor-owned filly cruised into the lead
Seattle mare Perfect Tale also for trainer Alan
at prohibitive odds of 5-10 at the 500m and
Greeff, and it was a happy return after an eight
lengthened to beat King Prawn (25-1) by 3,25
year absence – and it couldn’t have been
lengths in a time of 69,42 secs for the 1200m
more of an armchair ride on the impressive
straight.
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Course-and-distance debut winner Hot Sauce
A Winter mare Destiny Dancer. She is thus
(3-1) was a quarter length back in third.
a full-sister to Listed Sweet Chestnut Stakes winner Princess Izzy.
“She’s good enough to win in Durban,” quipped Andrew Fortune, who said ‘this is the
She was a R650 000 buy from the 2024
type of horse I love to ride’.
National Yearling Sale.
“The sky’s the limit and she just needs to
This feature was shown on SABC Sport –
mature. I have some lovely 2yo’s this season
something of a milestone moment in itself.
and she is right up there with the best of
We have no details of the background to that
them,” added Alan Greeff.
decision.
Now a winner of all her 4 starts for stakes of R303 750, the Varsfontein Stud-bred Anotherdanceforme is a daughter of Master Of My Fate (Jet Master) out of the unraced What
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Mathew Thackeray steers Action Zone to a career peak win as Jaeger Moon (Deryl Daniels) chases hard | Credit: Supplied
CANFORD CLIFFS SON WINS CASTLE TANKARD
Ridgemont’s red-hot five-time Grade 1 winning sire Canford Cliffs enjoyed a prestige success North of the Limpopo on Saturday when his Daytona-bred son Action Zone stormed to victory under Mathew Thackeray to win the 65th renewal of the US$ 50 000 Gr1 Castle Tankard at Borrowdale Park. Action Zone beat the former Gavin Smith-
the Tankard was first run over 1200m at
trained 2021 East Cape Derby winner Jaeger
Borrowdale Park on 18 April 1960 with the
Moon (Deryl Daniels) by three quarters of a
great SA-bred sprinter Riza winning the race
length in a time of 120,63 secs for the 2000m.
from the highly-fancied My King, who had
The runner-up is a 7yo twelve-time winner.
been imported to Zimbabwe in 1958. My King was a magnificent thoroughbred and won 18
A domestic Grade 1 in a part 2 racing country, 58 | 14 MAY 2025
races in all.
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Purchased by Thomas Mason for R170 000
“My timing wasn’t great as covid arrived.
off the BSA August 2yo Sale, Action Zone is
But anything after that start is good and we
a ten-time winner from 1100m to 2000m and
are doing well. Action Zone is a lovely horse
is raced by Craig Danckwerts, who, with his
and it’s amazing how versatile the progeny
wife Roxy, breeds elephants at the Wild Is Life
of Canford Cliffs have proven to be over the
sanctuary at Dindingwe.
world. I stand to be corrected, but he may well be the only Canford Cliffs in this country,”
The winner is trained by Thomas Mason, who
concluded Mason.
kept his 100% record from just two runners in the Tankard intact after he saddled True
Johannesburg-based commentator Nico
Beauty to win the big race in 2022.
Kritsiotis travelled up to call the race.
Bred by the now closed Daytona Stud, the Action Zone is out of the Judpot mare, Private Dancer.
Mason, who was an assistant to Kirk Swanson for many years, and also an on-course presenter and commentator, went on his own in 2019.
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The NHA have opened an inquiry into Andrew Fortune’s ride | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
SPOTLIGHT ON FORTUNE RIDE
PUBLIC REACTION DIVIDED An investigation into betting patterns, both locally and internationally, has been launched by the National Horseracing Authority, following the running of the first race at Hollywoodbets Greyville last Wednesday. The investigation will include scrutiny of betting
Andrew Fortune’s ride on the favourite Cherry
exchange activity on various platforms and
Oh Baby, who was beaten into second in the
follows the NHA opening an Inquiry into Jockey
opening race.
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She drifted from a call of 3-10 to 11-10 at the
• 62.1.1. A HORSE must be ridden in such a
off. Eventual winner Long Street, who was
manner as to benefit its best interests of the
receiving 8kgs from the favourite, was backed
RACE in general. [Amended 10.05.2019]
from 7-2 to 3-1. 62.2 The RIDER of a HORSE shall:- 62.2.1 This is how we reported the matter on
take all reasonable and permissible measures
Wednesday – see the replay.
throughout a RACE to ensure that his HORSE is given a full opportunity to win or to obtain the
There has been mixed reaction to the incident
best possible placing;
on social media, with some calling for Fortune’s head, while other stakeholders suggest that
• 62.2.2 ride his HORSE in a competent and
the ride was acceptable and very much in
professional manner
Fortune’s customary unflustered style of perfect balance and minimal crop action.
By the high standards of the De Kock yard, the Mauritzfontein Stud-owned Cherry Oh Baby is
It is likely that the filly was running on empty
clearly fairly moderate, having been tried in her
from some way out and that the veteran jockey
eight starts with various riders from 1160m to
was holding her together. He only went for
1800m. She has achieved regular places along
the crop when Long Street ranged up on his
the way. Last Wednesday was her first run on
outside – but the Tony Rivalland charge had too
the polytrack.
much momentum and went on by, drifting in slightly on to Fortune’s mount
On enquiry, Mathew de Kock informed the Sporting Post that the stable would not
The inquiry will focus on NHA Rule 62, which
comment, and they will allow the Inquiry to
states:
follow its course.
62.1 Every HORSE shall be run and shall be
Fortune, who has been riding with his flair of
allowed to run to the best of its ability and on its
old, celebrated a Fairview feature winner on
merits.
Friday, after riding in Nelson Mandela Bay for the first time since 2017. He is taking time off
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for a separate suspension from Saturday 10
the procedure for Total Carbon Dioxide (TCO2)
May 2025 to Friday 23 May 2025.
analysis on raceday, a second blood specimen was collected.
After the Andre Nel-trained Zeitz’ late scratching from Saturday’s (03 May 2025)
Trainer Odendaal was informed that the
WSB Gr2 Guineas, a further TCO2 excess
second blood specimen, analysed at 12h50
led to a scratching last Wednesday.
had revealed a level of over the threshold of 38 mmol/L. Consequently, Johnny The Thief was
MJ Odendaal’s Johnny The Thief was selected
scratched from the fourth race in terms of the
for the taking of specimens for TCO2 testing.
provisions of Rules 72.1.23; 4.2.14 and 4.2.18. He was withdrawn at 13h12, 5/2 in the betting.
The first specimen analysed at 12h40 revealed a level of over 36 TCO2. mmol/L. In terms of
YENI SUSPENDED – TWICE ON RULE 62.2.7 Charge 1 – 11 May 2025 As the rider of RACEWAY, he failed to ensure that he did not cause interference to WINGS OF ICE (Chase Maujean) and HAWKSDALE (Gavin Lerena) when he shifted in, in the concluding stages of Race 1 at Turffontein on 1 May 2025. After considering the mitigating factors presented, the Inquiry Board imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of seven (7) days. Charge 2 - 9 May 2025 As the Rider of BLOSSOMING MIND, he failed to ensure that he did not cause interference to DANCING IN WINTER (Gareth Wright), TWILIGHT BAY (Craig Zackey) and DUCHESS OF SEVILLE
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(Richard Fourie) when he shifted out at the 100m in Race 5 at Fairview Racecourse on 11 April 2025. After considering the mitigating and aggravating factors, along with Muzi Yeni’s recent record under this Rule, the Inquiry Board imposed a penalty of a suspension from riding in races for a period of seven (7) days. Muzi Yeni pleaded not guilty to both these charges, however, he was found guilt. He was given the Right of Appeal against both the finding and penalty imposed for both. • Media release by NHA on Tuesday, 13 May 2025.
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COUNTDOWN TO THE HIGHVELD FEATURE SEASON AWARDS BEGINS
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The countdown has begun for the 2025 Highveld Feature Season Awards. 4Racing has unveiled this year’s nominees, who have demonstrated exceptional form, tenacity and talent throughout an exciting Highveld Feature Season. The awards ceremony will take place on
as Masters of Ceremonies. With their deep
Saturday, 17 May 2025, at Turffontein
knowledge of the sport and dynamic presence,
Racecourse in Johannesburg.
Basel and Kritsiotis are sure to add an engaging and insightful flair to the occasion.
The event will bring together the industry’s finest to celebrate the standout performers of
“This time of year is always a highlight for us at
the past season, from dazzling juvenile stars to
4Racing,” says Colin Gordon, Chief Operating
proven champions.
Officer. “It’s an opportunity to recognise the incredible athletes, both equine and human,
The 2025 theme “It’s in our Veins” honours the
who’ve brought the sport to life on the Highveld
industry’s shared passion for horseracing in an
tracks. These nominations are more than just
evening of glamour and recognition for the best
names on a list; they reflect stories of hard
in the business.
work, resilience, and champion spirit. We
The evening will be hosted by two of South
extend our heartfelt congratulations and best
African racing’s most esteemed voices, Clyde
of luck to all the nominees — your dedication
Basel and Nico Kritsiotis — who will serve
continues to inspire the industry.”
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2025 HIGHVELD FEATURE SEASON AWARDS – NOMINEES CHAMPION TWO-YEAR-OLD FILLY
CHAMPION OLDER HORSE
• Golden Palm
• Atticus Finch
• Green Diamond
• Main Defender
• One Fine Winter
• William Robertson
CHAMPION TWO-YEAR-OLD COLT/GELDING
CHAMPION SPRINTER (1000–1200m)
• Charming Cheetah
• Chasing Happiness
• Esteemed
• Mia Moo • William Robertson
CHAMPION THREE-YEAR-OLD FILLY • Fatal Flaw
CHAMPION MILER (1400–1600m)
• Fiery Pegasus
• Cosmic Speed
• Olivia’s Way
• Fatal Flaw
• Spumante Dolce
• Greaterix
• World of Alice
• Spumante Dolce
CHAMPION THREE-YEAR-OLD COLT/
CHAMPION MIDDLE DISTANCE HORSE
GELDING
(1800–2000m)
• Confederate
• Atticus Finch
• Cosmic Speed
• Confederate
• Fire Attack
• Fiery Pegasus
• Greaterix
• Fire Attack
• Legend of Arthur
• Olivia’s Way
CHAMPION OLDER FILLY/MARE
CHAMPION STAYER (2400m+)
• Chasing Happiness
• Fiery Pegasus
• Let’s Go Now
• Legend of Arthur
• Mia Moo
• Taxhaven
• White Pearl 14 MAY 2025 | 69
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All equine winners are then eligible for the
• Champion Work Rider
Horse of the Season award.
• Champion Apprentice • Champion Breeder
The Highveld Feature Season Awards are
• Champion Owner
adjudicated by a panel of racing experts and
• Champion Jockey
based on a points system. The panel was
• Champion Trainer
chaired by Collin Gordon, with Clyde Basel and Darryl Maree completing the panel.
The following points structure was applied: • Grade 1:
12
9
7
In addition to the equine honours, the
• Grade 2:
9
6
4
evening will also recognise human
• Grade 3:
6
3
1
excellence in the following categories:
• Listed:
2
–
–
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COMPREHENSIVE COVER TO INSTILL CONFIDENCE IN EVERY STRIDE
Chat with us about the various cover options available to you for horses that are up for sale at auction.
JO CAMPHER BLOODSTOCK PRODUCT MANAGER M 082 334 4940 E jo@kuda.co.za
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Gavin Lerena steers Choisanaada to a smart win. Second-placed Immediate Edge (Kabelo Matsunyane, blue cap) and fourth-placed Dance King (Wes Marwing) try hard | Credit: JC Photos
VERDONESE-TRAINED SON OF QUERARI SIGNALS FORM RETURN One of SA horseracing’s closely guarded secrets, the 2025 Highveld Winter Series launched with the running of the R175 000 non black-type Betway Secretariat Stakes at Turffontein on Mother’s Day. The 3yo series continues with the Egoli Mile at
hours after the running of the Hollywoodbets
Turffontein on Sunday 8 June and culminates
Durban July down on the East Coast. A bonus
with the running of the Gr3 Sea Cottage Stakes
of R500 000 will be paid to the connections
to be run over 1800m at Turffontein some 24
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Highveld Winter Series.
with his third win and a place from 8 starts.
Highveld veteran Erico Verdonese saddled
Bred by Shadwell Stud, the winner is a son
Choisanaada to a good victory in a 2025 form
of Querari (Oasis Dream) out of the unraced
return for the son of Querari.
Aussie-bred daughter of Redoute’s Choice Musaanada.
The bang in-form Lerena, who grabbed 4 winners on the afternoon, guided Choisaanada
Brian Jossell, who at the age of 89 is one of
(9-2) into the lead at the 300m and the gelding
the staunchest owners around , races the
ran on well to beat Immediate Edge (7-1) by a
gelding with the Lombards, who celebrated
length in a time of 85,30 secs for the 1400m.
their 40th winner, and said that he was pleased that he got involved. “Erico said you buy
Zathar (33-1) was a further 0,30 lengths back in
another horse, you buy another car!” added the
third.
delighted Mr Jossel.
The tote favourite Royal Force (2-1) ran a
Erico Verdonese well and truly deserves a good
dismal last some 13,70 lengths off the winner.
horse. The veteran started out in 1978 with
It’s best we wait on the Stipes report for more
Richard Stranger and his tutors along the way
information.
include the likes of Syd and Alec Laird, Henry Eatwell, Stanley Ferreira, and the late Michael
A R180 000 National Yearling Sale purchase, the winner takes his stakes tally to R261 750
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Roberts, to mention just a few.
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CHART TOPPERS AND
LASTING LEGACIES
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The musical hits of 1988 did not age well. An exception was Tracy Chapman’s Fast Car, successfully covered in 2023 by country singer Luke Combs. Chapman and Combs closed the circle by performing this song together at the 2024 Grammys. Oscar Foulkes writes that 1988 was also the
covering season for Mexico, whilst Peaceable
year that Volume 4 of the Form Stallion Register
Kingdom had a few more seasons to go.
was published. Plenty of fast horses were produced by those stallions, and in some cases
Foveros and Elliodor were still firing, along with
leaving lasting legacies.
Golden Thatch and Harry Hotspur.
Two stallions – Mexico and Peaceable Kingdom
As always, this look-back focuses on stallions
– deserve special mention, for appearing in all
making their first appearances in the Stallion
four Stallion Registers. 1988 was to be the last
Register, so here goes.
Mexico II | Credit: Supplied
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National Assembly | Credit: Supplied
The picks of the bunch were National
National Assembly was the best-looking son of
Assembly, who sired 22 crops (the final one
Danzig at stud in South Africa, which was no
covered when he was 25 years old), with Secret surprise given his $2.5 million yearling sale tag. Prospector at the what-might-have-been end of the spectrum, dying after siring just six crops.
He was unraced, but went to stud floating on high praise from his trainer, Vincent O’Brien.
National Assembly’s influence has been massive, with 16 individual Grade I winners,
Based on his looks, as well as his stud record,
clocking in at 66% winners from foals and 7.3%
I’d work on the assumption that he did have
stakes-winners. He is also the broodmare sire
all the promise he was claimed to show on the
of Vercingetorix.
Ballydoyle training tracks.
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Secret Prospector’s six crops delivered a
He showed top-class sprint form on the tough
similar percentage of stakes-winners, and three
New York circuit without winning a stakes race.
Grade I winners. The underrated Elusive Fort
Negotiations to purchase him started while he
is out of a daughter of his, so their respective
was in the middle of something of a winning
influences are stretching well beyond their own
streak in Allowance races, with the price going
lifetimes.
up every time he hit the wire in front.
It’s worth digging into Secret Prospector’s
The Form Bloodstock team, with Charles Faull
credentials just a little, because he was the best
doing the cheerleading, was working overtime
son of Mr Prospector at stud in South Africa (as
with Aldora Stud’s Guy Landon to get the
National Assembly was the best son of Danzig).
deal done. I happened to land in New York
Secret Prospector | Credit: Supplied
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Charles Faull | Credit: Supplied
in the middle of it all and was taken by Joe
impression he made physically. It’s a subjective
Brocklebank (who rode Danzig to one of his
factor I keep coming back to; even though it’s
victories) to see him. My pictures of him, on
impossible to measure, a stallion’s looks/look
a gloomy November morning, won’t win any
are important.
awards, but I was blown away by his presence
The more time I spend on this exercise of
and all-round athleticism. “You have to buy
looking back over stallion successes (and
him”, was the sum total of my conversation with
failures) of the past, the less I’m fixated on
Charles when I’d finished my visit.
Grade I winners. Five of Secret Prospector’s six victories came in Allowance races, and his
I need to make it clear that I was not
best stakes performances were a second and
instrumental in his purchase. He was going to
a third. Better quality Allowance races can be
be bought anyway. I’m mainly illustrating the
likened to Pinnacle Plates, where the fields
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would also comprise horses with graded stakes
Champion filly Spook Express, who was bred
form. I should mention that Danzig, while
by the Jack Syndicate.
unbeaten in his three starts, never progressed beyond New York Allowance races.
The Jack Syndicate (for Jehan, Alan, Carl & Karl) was formed with the express purpose of
This is a good time to introduce Comic Blush,
exploiting the Blushing Groom x Nijinsky nick
who contested the New York sprint circuit at
when they bought the Green Dancer mare,
a high level, with eight wins (including two
Park Walk. There can’t be many breeding
stakes wins and a Grade III second). This son
operations in the history of the sport to have
of Blushing Groom was a rig, which resulted in
been formed specifically to exploit one genetic
him being sub-fertile. His 10 crops yielded just
strategy!
172 foals. His four Grade I winners included the
Bush Telepgraph | Credit: Supplied
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In support of the success of this cross, Comic
Grade I winners, including London News. With
Blush produced 17 foals out of granddaughters
56% winners and 6.9% stakes-winners, we can
of Nijinsky. Five of those ended up being
put a tick next to him as being a success and a
stakes-winners (two Grade I winners). That’s a
tragic early loss.
mythical strike rate; imagine if this cross hadn’t been limited to just 10% of his foals!
Model Man had a full stud career, with his 18 crops totalling 809 foals. His winners and
Two sons of Alydar made an appearance in
stakes-winners strike rates were similar to Bush
Volume 4. The one with graded stakes form
Telegraph, but his longer career enabled him to
was Steady Beat, but the sire of two Guineas
get to 13 Grade I winners. Another success.
winners was Centenary, who did all his racing in Allowance company (and didn’t break his
Prince Florimund didn’t share the success of
maiden until he turned five). In those days we
his compatriots, but he did sire the dam of
accessed Daily Racing Form on microfiche.
Pocket Power.
I can still remember my excitement as I started
Perhaps the biggest surprise for me was
looking through the collateral form of the Turf
realising the extent to which Imperial Dilemma
horses he raced against in California. He wasn’t
was a loss after siring just four crops.
far off the Grade I winner Great Communicator, which made him something of a bargain buy at
Producing 7% stakes-winners from foals, out of
R4000 per share.
second-string mares, was a very good record. He started his racing career in Britain and
Centenary sired no stakes-winners in his final
Germany, before moving to the US as a three-
eight crops (half his foals), which dragged
year-old. He raced there until the age of seven,
down his strike rate to below par. He is the
with a Grade I third along with his Allowance
broodmare sire of Bravura, as well as several
form. He must have been a very sound and
other stakes-winners.
honest horse. As a son of Damascus, out of a Buckpasser mare (in turn, out of a Bold Ruler
Two South African bred stallions left their mark.
mare), he deserved more attention when he
Bush Telegraph’s five crops produced three
went to stud.
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Once again, Volume 4 delivered a cautionary
considerable excitement. However, by the time
tale, in the form of Best By Test. He was a top-
the curtain came down on his stud career, his
class sprinter, winning 13 races on the New
tally was a below-par 43% winners and 2.6%
York circuit and breaking an 11-year-old track
stakes-winners. Sometimes we’re in too much
record over 1200m at Belmont. He was the
of a rush to anoint the next king.
second-top rated sprinter in the US, with all the looks one would want from a stallion. His sire,
We now know that Cox’s Ridge was Best Turn’s
Best Turn, was the sire of the successful stallion
only successful son. A similar view could be
Cox’s Ridge.
taken of Riverman, who had several sons retire in South Africa, but internationally he had just
When Best By Test’s first crop came out
one success, in the form of Irish River.
firing, with five stakes-winners, there was
Model Man | Credit: Supplied
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With National Assembly and Secret Prospector
European racing than any other stallion in the
as prime exhibits, one would easily conclude
20th century, only raced on dirt. The criticisms
that this game is a lot easier when you’re
came thick and hard.
dealing with good individuals by the likes of Danzig and Mr Prospector.
Mr Prospector (and other Raise A Native) line stallions have clicked perfectly happily with
The theory is easy. In practice it’s a lot harder.
Eurocentric South African pedigrees. In a way, it’s no different to Luke Combs presenting his
In the late 80s, South African breeders were
country version of Tracy Chapman’s hit.
highly skeptical of sons of Mr Prospector. The main criticism was that he was “a dirt stallion”
Excellence shines through, regardless of genre
and we race on turf. No matter that Northern
(or racing surface).
Dancer, who arguably had more influence on
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Under Your Spell wins the Gr1 Allan Robertson Championship | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
SA BRED MARE
SELLS FOR R14 MILLION EQUIVALENT Not for the first time in recent memory, a South African bred and raced mare made headlines in Australia last week. The top class Under Your Spell (Capetown
an impact in Australia, notably for producing
Noir) was knocked down to Growing Empire
current superstar 3YO filly Autumn Glow..”
Syndicate for AUS$1,2 million (Approx ZAR 14 million) at last Thursday’s Inglis Chairman’s
Catalogued as Lot 18, Under Your Spell, who
Sale.
had the added bonus of selling in foal to multiple champion sire I Am Invincible, was a
The noted site breednet.com.au had the
top-class performer and graded stakes winner
following to say about Under Your Spell, “Elite
for Sean Tarry at two, three and four.
South African race mares have made quite
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Chocolicious wins the Gr1 Allan Robertson Championship | Credit: Supplied
At two, she captured the Grr1 Allan Robertson
as Gr1 Prix de Diane heroine Sweet Mimosa.
Championship, G3 Protea Stakes and Listed Ruffian Stakes, while the following season she
Another South African mare to catch the eye
captured the Gr2 World Sports Betting Fillies
this year, albeit as a granddam, is another Gr1
Guineas before going on to claim the Gr2
Allan Robertson Championship winner in the
World Sports Betting Hawaii Stakes as a four-
form of Chocolicious (Kahal).
year-old. The latter is the dam of Gr3 Yarraman Park The well related Under Your Spell, a half-
Tibbie Stakes runner-up Notation, whose two-
sister to dual Gr3 Track And Ball Oaks winner
year-old daughter Memo (Capitalist) captured
Witchcraft (Kahal), sports the famed mare
this year’s Gr3 ATC Magic Night Stakes.
Feemoss (Ballymoss) as her fifth dam, with Feemoss also the dam of Gr1 Gold Cup
Incidentally, Chocolicious was not the only daughter
winning siblings Le Moss and Levmoss, as well
of Kahal to enjoy success at stud in Australia.
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The Kahal sired Gr1 Computaform Sprint
Rose winning sire In The Congo (Snitzel), and
winner Noble Heir produced Gr3 MRC Quezette unbeaten dual group winner Autumn Glow (The Stakes heroine Crown Witness to the cover of
Autumn Sun).
Star Witness. In The Congo, whose first weanlings have The South African influence continues to be felt
made up to AUS $190 000, has proved
Down Under.
extremely popular since he retired to Newgate Farm in 2023. The busiest first season sire in
Few South African mares made more impact in
Australia of his year, In The Congo looks poised
Australia than champion Via Africa (Var).
to make his mark at stud.
A triple G1 winner herself, Via Africa has been
The late South African champion Warning Zone
responsible for a pair of high-class Australian
is the granddam of Gr1 VRC Coolmore Stud
runners thus far in the form of Gr1 ATC Golden
Stakes/Gr1 MVRC William Reid Stakes winner
Top class Via Africa | Credit: Supplied
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September Run (Exceed And Excel) as well
Alice, has already had foals by Flightline and
as Steel City (Merchant Navy), with the latter
Life Is Good, the future looks bright for this
victorious in the 2023 Gr3 ATC Magic Night
family.
Stakes. Legendary South African broodmare Ethane Yet another champion, Rock Opera (Lecture),
features twice in the pedigree of US Triple
produced French Gr1 winner Royal Meeting,
Crown winner Justify (Scat Daddy), whose
whose first crop yielded Gr1 MRC Blue
two-year-old son Just Too Fly won the Gr3
Diamond Stakes winner Hayasugi.
Quayclean-WA Sires Produce Stakes in Australia last Saturday.
While bred in Australia, the 2019 Gr1 Jaipur Stakes winner Oleksandra was produced by
To date, Justify has been responsible for five
the high-class South African mare Alexandra
group winners in Australia, including Learning
Rose (Caesour). Given that Oleksandra, whose
To Fly, Australia’s Champion 2YO Filly of 2022-
half-sister Alice Springs is the dam of this
2023.
season’s high-class three-year-old World Of
Heavy Metal (GB), son of Rock Opera (SAF), wins the US$1 million Godolphin Mile at the 2018 Dubai World Cup Credit: Twin Spires
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FILLER REQUIRED 150 Words Required
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Winner of the KRA Cup, Ziyasha was always well-placed to strike | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
PLATTNER POWERHOUSE
STAKES BIG RACE CLAIM Our sectional timing observations after the weekend’s WSB 1900 racemeeting has once again unearthed some horses to keep an eye on. An important scientific complimentary tool of the trade for punters and racing enthusiasts, sectional timing data can really and truly enhance both the form study and horseracing viewing experience on both KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape race meetings. Hollywoodbets Greyville 10 May
Wind:
Track Condition
head wind
Going: Good
Course Variant:
5-15km/h North Westerly
0,23s fast
Penetrometer:
23
Rain:
Last 7 days Nil
World Sports Betting Gr3 1900
Irrigation:
Last 24 hours Nil –
Plenty were vying for good early position on
Last 7 days 10mm
leaving the stalls and although the pace may
False Rail:
4m
not visibly have looked too hot at that point,
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there was a good even tempo throughout.
Cup. The pace was good on leaving the stalls
Indeed, comparatively the fastest race on the
and, nicely positioned in fourth, the eventual
card, they were 3 seconds faster than the only
winner ZIYASHA was always well-placed to
other 1900m event on the day and the overall
strike. He quickened nicely when the early
time was just 2,13 seconds outside the course
effort took its toll on the leaders approaching
record.
the 400m marker and after striking the front 100m later he won well by just under a length.
The well supported third favourite Holding
Finishing best of all in this race was third
Thumbs made the running and he, along with
placed FUTURE VARIETY. Easily 8 lengths off
the handily placed runners, soon came under
the pace at the back turning for home, Candice
pressure in the home straight.
Bass-Robinson’s charge cut through the field like a knife and recording the fastest 400m to
Plenty held chances when the field began to
finish time of the afternoon, he did very well
concertina and with fancied runners finishing
indeed, to get within a length of the winner.
strongly from towards the rear, it was an exciting race.
1400m Races Four of the afternoon’s nine races were run
The winner SELUKWE came from second last
over 1400m with by far the fastest of these
and producing the fastest 400m to finish time
being the Middle Stakes for fillies and mares.
in the race, he won with authority by two and
Sonic Jet made the running, and they rounded
a half after striking the front 150m out. The
the turn considerably faster than any of the
deposed favourite Okavango (18/10 to 11/2)
other five races negotiating that section. She
who finished fourth, only really got going late.
did then begin to slow coming off the bend
He recorded the second fastest 400m to finish
and when the always handy Sohot Sowhat
time in the race and looks sure to improve
struck the front approaching the 300m marker
further.
the race looked wide open. Finishing best of all was the Peter Muscutt trained BEVIES
The KRA Cup (NBT) 1000m
DELIGHT, and in what proved to be a real
By far the fastest of the three 1000m events
thriller, the Vercingetorix mare got up in the very
was the afternoon’s supporting act, the KRA
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Quickies
Benni In The Area made the running, and
Positioned at the back five lengths off the pace
he was easily six lengths clear coming off
coming off the bend, the newcomer POSITION
the bend. He was soon found wanting in the
OF POWER ran on strongly late and did well to
straight though and several headed by Master
get up in the dying strides.
Bling began to close in quickly. Garth Puller’s charge looked to have done everything right
Fastest Times:
on striking the front 100m out, but in a classic
1000m (3)
Ziyasha
58,92
finish he was nabbed on the nod in the very last
1400m (4)
Bevies Delight
84,59
stride. Finishing best of all was fourth placed
1900m (2)
Selukwe
115,38
Hope Is Power who recorded the fastest 400m
400-finish
Future Variety
22,33
to finish time of the afternoon.
Hollywoodbets Greyville 7 May
Racecard www.goldcircle.co.za 1600m
Track Condition
Much the quicker of the two 1600m races was
Going: Standard
the B Stakes won by SUNDANCE KID. The
Rain:
Last 24 hours Nil –
son of Master Of My Fate got away well when
Last 7 days 5mm
the gates opened and was soon at the head
Irrigation:
Last 7 days Nil
of affairs. He led at a fair pace by a length and
Wind: 10-17km/h North
half for most of the journey before Calvin Habib
North Easterly head wind
cleverly doubled that advantage coming off the
Course Variant:
0,51s fast
bend. He ran on strongly in the straight and with the pack closing in quickly at the finish he
Three 1200m races
only held on by the narrowest of margins.
After a short break for upgrading, racing returned to the poly track on Wednesday
Two 1800m races
afternoon. Just 0,55 seconds separated the
The Open Maiden Plate was surprisingly
winners of the three 1200m races on the card
the faster of the two 1800m events and here
with the fastest being the Class 4 event won by
victory went to the Cape Town visitor MASTER
the nibbled at outsider IBUTHO (25/1 into 14/1).
BOMBER. Run in a time 0,8 seconds faster than the D Stakes, Glen Kotzen’s charge set a
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fair pace and dictated matters throughout. He
best and had a 4kg claimer on board to boot.
led by two and a half for most of the trip before
This Elusive Fort gelding has gained all five of
turning up the speed to go four lengths clear
his career wins on the polytrack.
early in the straight. Silver Platter ran on well over the final 400m and was gaining quickly at
Fastest Times:
the finish. Once again though, that move at the
1200m (3)
Ibutho 70,62
top of the straight would prove to be decisive.
1600m (2)
Sundance Kid
95,08
1800m (2)
Master Bomber
109,71
400-finish
Hope Is Power
22,59
Quickies Backed into favouritism at the track, the winner of the 1600m D Stakes EVENTIDOR raced off a mark 10 points lower than that of his previous
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1900 WINNER MOVES UP!
Selukwe’s official merit rating has been adjusted from 103 to 111 following his impressive victory in the World Sports Betting Gr3 1900 over 1900m at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Saturday. The Handicappers determined that the
securing a comfortable victory in the World
consistent Narina Trogon was the most
Sports Betting Listed East Cape Derby over
suitable line horse for assessing this race.
2400m at Fairview Racecourse on Friday.
Consequently, his rating remains unchanged at
The Handicappers opted not to use My
106.
Best Shot as the line horse, as his expected dominance in the race may have led to an
The ratings of the following horses were
inflated assessment of the other runners.
increased:
Instead, First Wish, the third-place finisher,
• Underworld, who secured third place, had
was chosen for this purpose, with her rating
his rating increased from 108 to 109.
remaining at 91.
• Okavango, who was weighted to run last, outperformed his pre-race rating and was
Two horses saw their ratings increase
accordingly increased from 96 to 105.
following their performances: • Ardabil, the runner-up, was increased from
Two horses received merit rating reductions:
90 to 99 for beating the 91-rated line horse by
• Infinite Wonder dropped from 102 to 100.
1.75 lengths (3-points) while conceding 2.5kg
• Madison Valley, who failed to confirm his
(5-points) to that rival.
adjustment for the Grade 1 Betway Summer
• Mister Speaker, who finished fourth, was
Cup in three subsequent runs, was reduced
elevated from 93 to 95.
from 117 to 113. No horses received merit rating decreases in World Sports Betting Listed East Cape Derby this race. The best-weighted runner, My Best Shot,
• Media release by the NHA on Tuesday,
maintained his official merit rating of 111 after
13 May 2025.
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Mauritian jockey Karis Teetan has ridden over 700 winners in Hong Kong | Credit: HKJC
SHERGAR CUP:
KARIS TO CAPTAIN REST OF WORLD TEAM Star jockeys from across the globe including Hollie Doyle, Ryusei Sakai and Karis Teetan will headline the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup in 2025 which features a new-look team format. Leading British rider Hollie Doyle will make
Dubai Duty Free’s title sponsorship of the event
her fourth appearance at the Dubai Duty Free
is also continued for a 20th year, with £500,000
Shergar Cup as she captains the Great Britain
in prize money on offer across the six-race card
& Ireland team in the popular event which takes
as well as £25,000 in stable bonuses.
place at Ascot Racecourse on Saturday, 09 August 2025.
Japanese jockey Ryusei Sakai will be the star attraction in the newly-created Asia team.
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Sakai is already a household name on the
Duty Free Shergar Cup concert in 2018.
international scene through his partnership with the globe-trotting Forever Young, the
Sakai will be joined in the Asia team by
world’s highest-rated horse currently, and Shin
compatriot Mirai Iwata who won the World All-
Emperor.
Star Jockeys title in 2023, while Suraj Narredu from India will captain the team. They will wear
The Asia team replaces the Ladies team in the
red silks, replacing the pink of the Ladies.
competition for 2025, recognising that female jockeys compete on a level playing field with
Ten-time Swedish champion jockey Per-Anders
their male counterparts. The Ladies team was
Gråberg will make his first appearance in the
first established in 2012, after the format had
Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup since 2018 when
expanded to four teams in 2007.
he captains Europe. Gråberg’s teammates will be Switzerland’s Sibylle Vogt, the first female
The Ladies team won four of the six most
rider to win the German 1,000 Guineas on
recent editions of the Dubai Duty Free Shergar
board Novemba in 2021, and Italy’s Dario Di
Cup including last year’s dramatic victory
Tocco, who has ridden over 850 winners in his
secured with Hayley Turner’s success in the
home country including partnering Goldenas in
final race aboard New Image.
last year’s Derby Italiano.
Doyle, who became the most successful female
Rest of the World will be captained by Mauritian
rider in Britain when recording her 1023rd
jockey Karis Teetan, who has ridden over 700
victory on Saturday at Ascot, will be joined in
winners in Hong Kong including the likes of
the GB & Ireland team by Robbie Dolan, winner
top-level stars Romantic Warrior and Ka Ying
of the Lexus Melbourne Cup in November on
Rising. The remaining two jockeys for Rest of
Knight’s Choice.
the World and the final rider for GB & Ireland will be confirmed closer to the time.
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Nick Smith, Director of Racing and Public
female jockeys on the same team, is a nice
Affairs at Ascot Racecourse, said:
reminder that we as jockeys complete on a level playing field internationally.”
“We’re pleased to have secured top talent from across the world to compete at the Dubai Duty
After racing, the ever-popular concert will get
Free Shergar Cup with at least eight different
underway, with the 2025 headliner confirmed
countries set to be represented already. We feel
as Perrie, supported by Joel Corry and Marvin
now is the time to move away from a Ladies
Humes. Tickets for the Dubai Duty Free
only team, and this new evolution of the format
Shergar Cup and Concert are available from
keeps the event fresh.”
£35 with Best Price savings available until midnight Friday 2nd May.
Great Britain & Ireland captain, Hollie Doyle, added:
• Media release by Ascot Racecourse on Monday, 12 May 2025.
‘The Ladies team over the years has had great success, but the new changes that have been made which include integrating the male and
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Class is in session! | Credit: SAJA on FB
SAJA’S GLOBAL STANDARDS
A FOUNDATION FOR WORLD-CLASS JOCKEYS The South African Jockey Academy (SAJA) at Summerveld has long been known for producing some of the world’s top jockeys, with a reputation built over decades. But in recent years, the academy has faced
including a stronger focus on mentoring and
criticism - questions around discipline, a
structured rider development. Early signs are
perceived drop in riding standards, and
promising.
concerns about the direction of its training programme.
Accomplished horseman Gavin van Zyl has been appointed as a mentor to apprentices
After a strategic planning session in December
at Summerveld, while others - including the
2024, SAJA introduced new initiatives for 2025,
well-versed training veteran, Louis Goosen -
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Headmaster Marius Nel with apprentices at SAJA | Credit: 4Racing
14 MAY 2025 | 105
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have generously shared their time and industry
Academy and also makes himself available
knowledge to help young riders navigate
to them at race meetings which, in itself, is
the demands of one of the toughest working
support they didn’t have before.”
environments in the sporting world. Van Zyl said he firmly believes that jockeys, The recent reopening of the Western Cape
as professional sportsmen, require the same
Academy has added further momentum.
level of coaching and support as athletes in other disciplines - such as tennis players. He
SAJA’s Headmaster, Marius Nel, said that
said: “We’re all on the same page - the riding
all industry stakeholders contributed to the
masters Robert Moore, Martin Ball, Rocky
strategy meeting. “Our main objective is to
Agrella, Nicky Roebuck, and myself. Our
guide SAJA into the future, considering both
shared goal is to take race-riding apprentices
the evolving needs of the industry and the
to the next level.”
pressures of today’s more challenging and socially transparent world, compared to years
In reality, the Academy is responsible for
past, as well as the personal pressures these
educating a yearly intake of 12 or more young
young men and women face.”
teenage boys and girls, both academically and professionally. “It’s a formidable task,” Van
Nel explained that SAJA’s academic classes
Zyl said. “Doctors study for nine years before
take place after the morning gallops at the
they can practise independently. Lawyers take
Summerveld training centre, from 10h30 to
seven or more years to qualify. Meanwhile,
14h45, during which time standard subjects are
we’re working with youngsters - really wet
taught. As a result, there’s limited opportunity
behind the ears - who are expected to ride in
to address the crucial mental and emotional
their first races after just 18 months of training.
aspects within regular academic hours.
It’s a rigorous, demanding process, and they’re thrown into the deep end of a highly
“We brought Gavin van Zyl on board as
competitive sport.”
a mentor because of his comprehensive experience as both a jockey and a trainer.
Van Zyl’s own mentor was the legendary
He visits the apprentices twice a week at the
champion jockey Gerald Turner. He also gained
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Gavin van Zyl in action during a race riding class | Credit: SAJA on FB
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valuable insight while training and guiding
There’s no room for weakness. When the pens
apprentices who rode for him during his time
open, you have to hold your own, because
as a trainer. However, he emphasised that the
no one gives an inch. There’s simply too
mentoring he provides today draws on world-
much at stake. Race riding requires shrewd
class techniques and insights from some of
tactics and real grit. Older jockeys will often
the best jockeys globally. “I’m not trying to
try to intimidate younger riders, whether by
teach them to ride like Gavin van Zyl,” he said.
shouting or by fighting for position. Apprentices
“We cover a broad spectrum - race tactics,
must learn to stand their ground. We teach
positioning, pace judgement, fitness, you name
professional respect, that’s essential. But
it. We watch race replays, break things down,
mental toughness is just as important. It’s all
and interact constantly. It’s a shared process.”
about striking the right balance.”
In light of recent disciplinary issues and
Click on the image below to read the full
overly aggressive riding among some senior
story…
professionals, Van Zyl offered a candid perspective: “A jockey has to be tough.
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Jockey Smanga Khumalo – charged for misuse of crop | Credit: Candiese Lenferna
BLING’S HOLLYWOODBETS DURBAN JULY RIDE
APPEAL DENIED The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa confirms that an Appeal was heard at its offices in Johannesburg on Wednesday, 30 April 2025, and was finalized on Friday, 9 May 2025.
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For background purposes, it should be noted
• A fine of R54,500 (fifty-four thousand and five
that at an Inquiry held in Pietermaritzburg
hundred rand).
on Sunday, 21 July 2024, Jockey Smanga Khumalo was charged with a contravention
Jockey Khumalo was given the right to appeal
of Rule 58.10.2 (read with Guideline M in
the penalty imposed, which he exercised.
Appendix E regarding the use of the crop). Appeal Board Ruling: The specifics of the charge were that he misused his crop by striking COUSIN CASEY
The Appeal Board issued the following
more than twelve times (15) during Race 7 of
order:
the Hollywoodbets Durban July (Grade 1) at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on
• The appeal is dismissed.
6 July 2024. • The appellant (Jockey S. Khumalo) is This action was deemed unwarranted under the
ordered to pay the wasted costs related to the
circumstances of the race.
postponement of the hearing held on 30 April 2025.
Jockey Khumalo pleaded guilty and was found guilty of the charge.
• The appellant (Jockey S. Khumalo) is ordered to pay the costs of the Appeal Hearing held on
After consideration of the mitigating factors,
9 May 2025.
including Mr Khumalo’s recent disciplinary record related to similar contraventions and
• Jockey Khumalo’s appeal fee is forfeited.
the Grade 1 status of the race, the Inquiry Board imposed the following penalties:
• Media release by NHA on Friday, 09 May 2025
• A suspension from riding in races for a period of fourteen (14) days.
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Place of beauty – Avontuur Estate | Credit: Supplied
AVONTUUR CLOSES BREEDING OPERATIONS It’s the end of an era in South African breeding with the news that Avontuur Estate has officially closed the stud operations of a farm that has flourished since the late 1980’s under the expertise of general manager Pippa Mickleburgh. The home of famed stallions like Var and
Mickleburgh confirmed that the last transport
Oratorio, Avontuur Estate will continue as
carrier left Avontuur in early May and that it has
a wine farm, restaurant and manor house
been a huge wrench for her.
accommodation, plus its use as an events venue and activities such as padel will be
“This farm has been my life for 35 years. My
unaffected, but in thoroughbred breeding terms
blood, sweat and tears are in the soil. The
the barns have shut.
memories will remain forever. It’s a very sad
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time for my staff as well. Many of the staff have
The last sale that Mickleburgh attended as
been around for 20 years and some even for 40
representing Avontuur was last month’s 2025
years and are like family.
BSA National Yearling Sales where the colt October Rush, by Rafeef out of the Gr1-winning
“The decision to close the farm is that of
mare Miss October, was knocked down to Form
the owners. All of the horses have gone to
Bloodstock for a sales-topping R4.25-million.
Ridgemont, including 27 mares. Avontuur
In total, Avontuur’s seven lots at the sale
was a very successful stud farm, built up over
fetched R6.45m, at an average of R921,429.
the years. You’d have to go back into the history books, but for many seasons we have
In the days that the final thoroughbreds
produced a Grade 1 winner.”
were being transported out of Avontuur, the exciting One World colt, Dreamworld – bred by
Mickleburgh is undecided about her own
Avontuur Thoroughbred Farm out of the Oasis
future.
Dream mare Dream de Ra, won the Gr3 Winter Nursery at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.
“I think I will take a break when my employment with Avontuur ends on 30 June. I need
Mickleburgh was there at the lead-in and could
some time to reflect. Avontuur is in my DNA.
be seen wiping a tear from her eye.
Seeing the windup of the breeding part and saying goodbye to all the horses on the farm
“I’d just attended my final Sales, and this was a
continues to be very tough and emotionally
final group winner for Avontuur while it was still
draining.”
operational as a stud farm. All other activities at Avontuur will remain, but the breeding side has closed.”
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Jockey Rachael Blackmore has retired from racing | Credit: Irish Racing on FB
FIRST WOMAN TO WIN
GRAND NATIONAL RETIRES
Leading Irish jumps jockey Rachael Blackmore has retired. The 35-year-old enjoyed major racing success with triumphs in the Grand National, the Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle and Champion Chase. In March she completed the ‘grand slam’ of the
“My days of being a jockey have come to an
Cheltenham Festival’s marquee events when
end,” she wrote in a post on X. “I feel the time
Bob Olinger landed the Stayers’ Hurdle, and
is right. I’m sad but I’m also incredibly grateful
Blackmore decided to bring the curtain down
for what my life has been for the past 16 years.
on her career.
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the horses I have, and to have experienced
“I rode my first winner for Shark Hanlon, who
success I never even dreamt could be
then helped me become champion conditional.
possible.”
I will be forever grateful to Shark for getting behind me, supporting me and believing in me
Blackmore, who spent three months on the
when it would have been just as easy to look
sidelines towards the end of last year with a
elsewhere. He was the catalyst for what was to
serious neck injury, departs the stage with a
come.”
string of trailblazing firsts to her name. “A conversation between Gigginstown House She won each of the Cheltenham Festival’s
Stud’s Eddie O’Leary and Henry de Bromhead
feature races, famously executing one of
in a taxi on the way to Aintree took my career
the great Gold Cup rides of modern times to
to a whole new level. Eddie got me in the door
secure the sport’s pinnacle event in 2022 on A
at Knockeen Stables, and what came next
Plus Tard, who, like so many of her big winners,
was unimaginable: Honeysuckle, A Plus Tard,
was trained by her most devoted ally Henry de
Minella Indo, Captain Guinness, Bob Olinger,
Bromhead. He was among those she thanked
Minella Times, among many others . . . all with
on Monday.
one thing in common – Henry de Bromhead. He’s a phenomenal trainer who brought out
“The people to thank are endless, it’s not
the best in me. Without Henry, my story is very
possible to mention everyone, as I don’t want
different.”
this to be another book, but I’m going to get a few names in here anyway and to everyone
In 2021, Blackmore secured an unprecedented
else, you know who you are, as they say,”
landmark when beating all her male
Blackmore said.
counterparts to be crowned leading rider at the Cheltenham Festival.
“First, my parents who provided me with the best childhood, and a pony I couldn’t hold! This The following month, she rode the crest of a set the seed for a life of racing. Aidan Kennedy
wave all the way to Aintree, claiming a heroic
gave me my first ride in a point-to-point.”
Grand National success on JP McManus’s De Bromhead-trained Minella Times that resonated
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all over the world. Last year’s Champion Chase
“I feel so incredibly lucky to have had the
victory on Captain Guinness meant she joined
career I’ve had. To have been in the right place
an elite group comprising just Ruby Walsh,
at the right time with the right people, and to
Tony McCoy, and Barry Geraghty to have won
have gotten on the right horses – because it
jumping’s four most prestigious races, and this
doesn’t matter how good you are without them.
year’s Stayers’ on Bob Olinger was icing on the
They have given me the best days of my life
cake.
and to them I am most grateful.”
Rachael’s 17 victories aboard the star mare Honeysuckle, including their 2021 and 2022 Champion Hurdle triumphs, will never be forgotten. They looked like they were made for each other.
HIS MAJESTY – AIMS AT ROYAL MILE The 2026 L’Ormarins King’s Plate will be the target for the imported No Nay Never colt His Majesty who is set to join the powerful Vaughan Marshall yard at Milnerton in the next few months. Vaughan Marshall won the 2025 renewal of the prestigious weight-for-age mile with the now exported 3yo, One Stripe. A very smart juvenile of his year when landing the Listed First Flier Stakes at the Curragh, His Majesty ran second in the Gr2 Prix Robert Papin, third in both the Gr2 Railways Stakes and Gr3 Marble Stakes, and fourth in the Gr2 Norfolk Stakes. His Majesty is one of three winners from as many runners out of Galileo’s
grandaughter Czabo, who won the Gr3 Park Express Stakes and Listed Prix des Lilas and finished fourth in the Gr1 Irish The colt was one of a quartet of purchases at the October 2024 Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training sale by Willem Ackerman and Nigel Riley, who were assisted by Paul Peter. The draft includes the Tony Peter trained Galileo colt The Equator, an interesting entry in the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July. He faces a race against time to be ready for the 5 July showdown. Paul Peter was recently quoted in media reports that the quarantine period was longer than they had anticipated.
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Lady’s Choice stays on under Matthew Poon | Credit: HKJC
LUKE’S PATCH OF PARADISE IS UNBEATEN
Michael Chang will consider a tilt at the HK$4,2 million Gr3 Sha Tin Vase Handicap on 31 May with Lady’s Choice after the much-improved gelding upstaged a class field of rising talents to win the Class 2 Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road Handicap at Sha Tin on Saturday. By Charm Spirit, Lady’s Choice (119lb) led all
Clocking 1m 08.44s, the five-year-old
the way under Matthew Poon to score at odds
posted his fourth win of the season and
of 13/1, defeating Bottomuptogether (132lb)
took his earnings beyond HK$10 million for
by three quarters of a length with Tomodachi
connections, the HK Association of Lady Horse
Kokoroe (120lb) a head further way in third.
Lovers, having started this preparation on a mark of 66. 14 MAY 2025 | 119
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Rated 87 before Saturday’s race, Lady’s Choice
Hopefully, he continues on this natural
was brilliantly rated in the lead by Poon before
improvement path. From indicators, it looks like
fending off Bottomuptogether and Tomodachi
he’s a horse that we’re going to have fun with,
Kokoroe as Fast Network (135lb) finished fifth
so it will be exciting to see his future.”
with Wunderbar (130lb), eighth. Ting also struck with Flash Current (133lb), who “He’s now fully mature. Mentally, he’s improved
posted his second win from five starts with a
a lot. Last year, he was still mentally a little
strong display in the Class 4 Tuen Mun Public
bit hot, but he’s now calmed down a lot. He
Riding School Handicap (1400m), scoring
relaxes, he knows the racing and he tries, and
impressively under Zac Purton, who fired in a
he keeps improving,” Chang said. “Maybe I will
treble.
run him in the Group 3 race at the end of this month. He will carry a light weight, he holds his
Ting said: “It’s my first one (double) for the
form well.”
season and I hope that later I will win more. I need some more winners and I think I can get
Ridden patiently by Luke Ferraris, Little
some.”
Paradise (133lb) maintained his unbeaten record by landing the Class 4 The Hong Kong
Patch Of Stars (134lb) also showcased his
Riding For The Disabled Association 50th
potential with an easy win in the Class 4 Lei Yue
Anniversary Cup Handicap to provide Jimmy
Mun Public Riding School Handicap, clocking
Ting with a double.
1m 22.00s under Purton after being eased down over the final 100m.
Taken to the centre of the track in the straight, the Toronado gelding made it two wins from as
“He’s only three, still learning and does a little
many starts, impressing Ferraris.
bit wrong,” Purton said. “He wants to grab the bit and get a bit aggressive in the run and in the
“He showed his versatility, which is very
straight, he was hanging in quite bad. I think
important for a young horse like him,”
there’s a little bit more there and next season
Ferraris said. “It was good to see him settle
when he’s a bit more mature, he’ll start to show
and quicken up when I pushed the button.
his best.”
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Purton also partnered Light Years Charm to an
out so he was thinking he was going to do the
eye-catching victory, scoring for David Eustace
same thing again,” Purton said.
in the Class 3 Lung Mun Road Handicap after being slowly away.
“So, he was right on the back of the gates and flopped out. They didn’t go fast which was a
“He doesn’t make it easy for himself at the start. concern and I was in a bad spot, so I had no It didn’t help that prior to the start, he was able
option but to ride for luck – and luckily the runs
to pop the gate open and reverse himself back
came. He won well and there’s more to come
Luke Ferraris keeps Little Paradise beautifully balanced to make it two from two | Credit: HKJC
14 MAY 2025 | 121
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because he cooks himself before the start.
Class 4 Chai Wan Road Handicap (1000m) for Derek Leung.
“Next season, hopefully he’s better.” Charming Steed continued his excellent form
Dragon Air Force (122lb) claimed his third win
on the dirt with victory in the Class 4 Pok Fu
of the season for Ricky Yiu with a courageous
Lam Riding School Handicap (1650m, dirt) for
performance for Matthew Chadwick in the
Ellis Wong. Trained by Caspar Fownes, the
Class 3 Lei Yue Mun Park Handicap (1650m,
Hong Kong International Sale graduate has
dirt) before James Orman notched his sixth
won three of his past four starts on the dirt,
win in Hong Kong when Francis Lui’s Call
as well as slotting a runners-up effort on the
Me Glorious landed the Class 3 Pok Fu Lam
surface.
Country Park Handicap (1200m).
Benno Yung’s Jolly Jumper broke through at his ninth start with success in the Class 5 Castle Peak Handicap (1600m) for Britney Wong before Moon Rocket underlined his promise for Danny Shum with victory in the
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Capitalist son Reserve Bank storms home | Credit: Inglis
CAPITALIST COLT WINS GR1 GOODWOOD! Dynamic 3YO colt Reserve Bank (Capitalist) capped off an unbeaten Adelaide carnival with victory in Saturday’s A$1m Gr1 Goodwood at Morphettville. In three Adelaide runs the Mick Price and Michael
Price/Kent Racing purchased Reserve Bank for
Kent Jr trainee has won the Listed Redelva
A$410,000 at the Premier Yearling Sale, where
Stakes, the Gr2 Tobin Bronze Stakes and now his
he was offered by his breeder Segenhoe Stud.
first Gr1 in the Goodwood, collecting A$750 385 in prizemoney along the way.
He becomes the 108th individual Gr1-winning Inglis graduate since 2018 and the 31st Gr1-
Saturday’s victory also cements Reserve
winning colt in that time, joining recent Gr1-
Bank’s standing as one of the most desirable
winning colts like Switzerland, Private Harry,
colt’s in Australia and sets him up for a career
Nepotism and Vinrock.
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Segenhoe’s Peter O’Brien described Reserve
Reserve Bank has now won five of his nine
Bank’s win as ‘sensational’’.
career starts.
“He was as good looking a horse as you’ll ever
Reserve Bank was the headline act on a day
see in your life and he made a big number at
where Inglis graduates won 10 Stakes races
the Inglis Premier Sale and deserved every cent
across four tracks Australia-wide, including four
of it,’’ O’Brien said.
on the big Morphettville programme.
“That cross with Fastnet Rock mares over
Earlier at Morphettville Cleo Cat (American
Capitalist, we’ve stuck religiously by it, it’s off
Pharoah) made it seven wins from eight career
the charts and I remember speaking to Mick
starts with a dominant front-running display in
Price at Oaklands before he bought Reserve
the Gr3 Proud Miss Stakes.
Bank and we were both saying how good that cross worked and it’s got a Gr1 winner today.
Trainer Tom Dabernig bought the Colm
I’m delighted for Mick and Michael, the horse
Santry-bred Cleo Cat for A$50,000 at the
has been close to perfect this preparation, at
HTBA Yearling Sale, where she was offered by
least in Adelaide, and he’s only going to get
Coolmore.
better and better.’’ The ownership group includes Sam Jenkins, Winning co-trainer Mick Price added: “He’s
who along with her late mother Joy, made
a sizeable colt with a big, long stride on him
the pedigree of Cleo Cat famous through
and he was strong at the end of 1200m.He’s
the exploits of the likes of Cats Whisker and
a lovely colt and he’s won a Gr1 now, it’s
Catchy, the latter of whom sold for A$800,000
fantastic. He’s got a good temperament and a
at The Chairman’s Sale on Thursday night.
good brain…that said he’s a typical colt, he’s full of himself, he’s a lad, a big alpha male-type
The Danny O’Brien-trained 3YO filly Litzdeel
of colt but more importantly, he’s a Gr1-winning
(Dundeel) scored a valuable first Stakes
colt.’’
success when winning the Gr3 SA Fillies Classic.
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The Premier Yearling Sale graduate of Widden
The 4YO from the Paul Messara and Leah
Stud is bred by Paul Lanskey, whose mighty
Gavranich stable has been a revelation this
broodmare Geblitz is now the producer of
preparation, earning A$1.1m in the past seven
three Stakes winners – all of which are Inglis
weeks thanks to victories in the Country
graduates – in Litzdeel, Lycurgus and Gr1
Championships Wildcard, the Country
Melbourne Cup winner Vow And Declare.
Championships Final, today’s Stakes race and another Saturday Randwick victory.
And ageless 7YO Regal Azmon (Magnus) scored arguably the win of the day, coming
Raced by the Ladbrokes Racing Club, Know
from last with a stunning turn of foot to defeat a
Thyself was bought by Andrew Williams
big field in the Gr3 Cummings Stakes.
Bloodstock for A$300,000 at the Easter Yearling Sale from the draft of Arrowfield, who bred the
Regal Azmon is only lightly raced, with today’s
4YO with LNJ Foxwoods.
outing just the 23rd of his career and resulted in his eighth victory.
“It’s great to get a quality, consistent horse for a high-profile syndicate like Ladbrokes,’’ Williams
Trained by Phillip Stokes, Regal Azmon is a
said.
A$25,000 Gold Yearling Sale buy for Mark Burckhardt’s Regal Bloodstock and Leonard
“He seems very genuine and that’s reflective of
Russo’s Bluegrass Bloodstock, from the draft of
his prizemoney levels which now sits at almost
Linda Treloar, who had initially purchased him
A$1.3m.
for A$5000 as a Great Southern Sale weanling from his breeder Musk Creek.
“Credit where credit is due, Paul and Leah have trained and placed the horse to perfection and
At Gosford – the primary NSW meeting – today,
he still has plenty of upside.’’
Know Thyself (The Autumn Sun) made it four wins in a row with victory in the A$500,000
Know Thyself’s victory capped off a memorable
Listed The Coast.
week for Williams, who had four of his yearling purchases sell at Thursday night’s Chairmans Sale – Bella Nipotina (A$4.2m), Lekvarte
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(A$750,000), Ethereal Star (A$450,000) and
Wednesday winners too,’’ Litt said.
Waimarie (A$400,000). Also at Gosford Les Vampire (Pierro) led all
“I look at all the Inglis Digital catalogues,
the way to win the Listed Gosford Gold Cup.
especially when there are Godolphin offerings, I really love them but the catalogues always have
It was a third win from his past four starts for
something in there to look at closely.’’
Les Vampire, a A$200,000 Easter Yearling Sale buy for his trainers Gai Waterhouse and
Barber was one of two Inglis Digital Stakes
Adrian Bott – along with Bruce Slade’s Kestrel
winners today following the success of
Thoroughbreds – from the draft of his breeder
Rockribbed (Night of Thunder) in the Listed
Coolmore.
ATC Trophy on the Gold Coast.
And Barber (Exceed And Excel) led in an
Elliott O’Shea paid just A$27,500 for the Tony
Inglis graduates quinella when defeating
Gollan-trained Rockribbed, which has won
Brudenell in the Listed Takeover Target Stakes.
almost A$400,000 since.
Monarch Bloodstock’s Jason Micallef bought
Bred by Brian Coyle’s Bridsan Bloodstock,
Barber from the Godolphin draft for A$215,000
the now 7YO was initially bought by Adrian
in the Inglis Digital December Online Sale last
Corboy’s Polaris Bloodstock for A$14,000 at
year and gave him to Richard Litt to train.
the Gold Yearling Sale, where he was offered by Flinders Park Stud.
He has raced twice since for an unlucky 3rd at
The Inglis Digital May (Early) Online Sale,
Canterbury and now today’s Stakes victory.
which has 531 entries, is now open for bidding, with the final countdown beginning from 10am
“The Monarch boys have been great
Wednesday.
supporters of mine and the ex-Godolphin horses I’ve either purchased or been given to
To view the catalogue, CLICK HERE.
train off Inglis Digital have been a wonderful bunch of horses for my stable, there’s been
Later on the Gold Coast card, on a worsening
Stakes winners and plenty of Saturday and
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(Trapeze Artist) scored a tough yet dominant
a A$210,000 Classic Yearling Sale purchase for
3.3L win in the Listed Gold Coast Bracelet.
his trainer Luke Fernie, from the Riversdale draft.
Godolphin purchased Pinito for A$260,000 at
It wasn’t only Stakes racing that saw happy
the Easter Yearling Sale, where she was offered
owners of Inglis graduates celebrate today.
by Widden. At Ararat in Victoria the Ciaron Maher-trained The progressive 3YO, who will likely take high
Bold Strike (Too Darn Hot) won the A$100,000
rank amongst the leading candidates for the
Inglis Xtra Maiden.
Gr1 Queensland Oaks, was bred by the Vieira Group, who purchased her dam, Waltzing
Sporting the MyRacehorse silks, Bold Strike will
Wodka at The Chairman’s Sale in 2019.
pick up A$116,065 for his delighted owners.
And in Perth tonight Just Too Fly (Justify)
A total of A$2.7m in bonuses have now been
scored a strong win in the Gr3 WA Sires’
won by 25 individual trainers in the Xtra Bonus
Produce Stakes at Ascot.
Series since the concept was introduced last August.
Bred by Waratah Thoroughbreds, Just Too Fly is
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• www.inglis.com.au
v
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Lot 40 (c) by Night Of Thunder x Date With Destiny | Credit: ZuzannaLupa
BREEZE UP 2025 RECORD TURNOVER OF
€27,444,500 Taking place, the day before the French Guineas and following on from Ruling Court’s success in the 2,000 Guineas, the ARQANA Breeze Up Sale was held on Saturday in Deauville following the canters last Thursday at Deauville-La Touques Racecourse and a day of inspections on Friday. 14 MAY 2025 | 131
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The sale confirmed its place as the leading
hands for an average of more than €200,000,
sale in Europe of its kind with the 2025 edition
establishing a European record, and a median
establishing new records.
of €120,000, up 22% and 20% respectively.
For the first time, four lots made €1 million or
The final turnover registered was a record
more in the ring. Underlining the strength of
amount of €27,444,500, up 27% from the
the market, 87% of the lots offered changed
record 2024 edition.
Lot 164 (c) by Siyouni x Soteria | Credit: ZuzannaLupa
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Very active around the ring, Anthony Stroud
from the talented Who Did It And Run, Giant
bought six lots at the sale, including the top
Run, Who’s In Town and Wet My Beak.
price of €1,9 million, on behalf of Godolphin. Eagerly awaited in the ring, a son of Siyouni (lot Consigned by C. F. Bloodstock, the colt is a
164) was knocked down for €1 million in favour
son of Night Of Thunder (lot 40) out of the
of Coolmore.
black-type mare Date With Destiny. A halfbrother to Group winner Beautiful Morning,
Consigned by Mocklershill, the colt is a half-
he hails from the family of talented performers
brother to the black-type Naboo Baby and hails
Ombre Legere, Germinal, Best Name and
from the family of the Sussex Stakes (Gr1)
February Sun.
scorer Mohaather, as well as the Queen Anne Stakes (Gr1) winner Accidental Agent.
“He’s a superb colt,” said the agent. “He breezed very well on Thursday. Night Of
“He’s a lovely colt that did a great breeze,” said
Thunder is a very good stallion, with whom we
MV Magnier. “He’s by Siyouni – the sire of St
won a Classic last weekend.”
Mark’s Basilica – an exceptional stallion. We hope this col can achieve great things as well.”
A little earlier in the day and also on behalf of Godolphin, he signed the docket at €1 million
Click on the image below for the sale
for a son of the young sire Maxfield (lot 5) out of
statistics…
the Stakes winner American Victory. The wellbred colt is a half-brother to the black-types Victory Rally and Charmed Victory and hails
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DUDLEY BASEL
GONE 30 YEARS TODAY This week we remember Natfed Chairman Dudley Basel who sadly lost his battle against cancer on 14 May 1995. He served on the Natal Owners and Trainers’ committee from 1978, became vice-chairman in 1980 and was chairman from 1983 until 1987. He became a steward of Clairwood Park Turf Club in 1986, but still continued to serve on the NOTA committee.
He was invited to join Natfed at its inception in February 1984, became vice-chairman in 1986 and was elected as chairman in 1988, a post he held at his death.
He took his racing duties so seriously that he was still flying to Natfed, TBA and Jockey Club meetings and serving as duty steward at Clairwood Park Turf Club until late April. Dudley Basel – loved the game | Credit: Supplied
14 MAY 2025 | 135
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results up to: 2025-05-14
TRAINERS Name
Runs
Wins Win%
2nd
3rd
Other Places Place %
Mr S J Snaith Mr A C Greeff Mr S G Tarry Mr A P Peter Mrs C L Bass-Robinson
908 777 504 452 593
135 139 65 74 70
14.9 17.9 12.9 16.4 11.8
119 83 58 64 74
111 99 58 52 71
191 190 113 93 110
Name
Rides Wins Win%
2nd
3rd
Other Places Place %
Mr C Zackey Mr R D Fourie Mr G J Lerena Mr M A Yeni Mr S D Veale
1150 792 751 932 690
163 113 144 130 79
136 110 107 116 52
238 187 149 224 137
421 372 229 209 255
Win Stake (R)
Total Stakes (R)
46.4 15,342,344 23,045,150 47.9 8,955,819 12,314,444 45.4 7,638,250 11,775,794 46.2 5,857,813 9,137,600 43.0 5,141,063 9,038,131
JOCKEYS 208 202 195 126 94
18.1 25.5 26.0 13.5 13.6
537 410 400 470 268
Win Stake (R)
Total Stakes (R)
46.7 18,254,381 26,428,488 51.8 22,077,188 28,466,744 53.3 19,650,938 27,210,763 50.4 9,247,750 15,568,575 38.8 7,075,656 11,502,456
BREEDERS Name
B.T. B.T. Total Runrs Runs AEPR Wnrs Wins Winrs/ Places Winrs Wins Stakes (R) Rnrs %
Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert) Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein Varsfontein Stud Ridgemont Highlands Klawervlei Stud
189
969 151,071
96 144
50.8
446
17
21
28,552,375
311 1815 84,240 150 213 190 984 115,871 88 138 146 763 90,895 77 108 184 931 58,292 64 87
48.2 46.3 52.7 34.8
815 489 323 369
8 14 6 2
11 18 10 4
26,198,588 22,015,481 13,270,600 10,725,706
B.T. AEPR Wnrs Wins Winrs/ Places Winrs Rnrs %
B.T. Wins
Total Stakes (R)
24 16 9 6 5
27,595,769 19,819,456 16,241,538 14,149,581 14,024,463
SIRES Name
Runrs Runs
Vercingetorix Gimmethegreenlight (AUS) Master Of My Fate * Lancaster Bomber (USA) Querari (GER)
223 1162 123,748 240 1246 82,581 180 933 90,231 110 579 128,633 186 1027 75,400
120 191 107 153 80 116 53 77 74 101
53.8 44.6 44.4 48.2 39.8
520 525 402 273 460
See all the detailed standings - Click here
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