Issuu

Wednesday 2 September 2026

MJ - TGIF! 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 1

SEPTEMBER’S

HERE! v

In this week’s issue... Drakenstein Bids Champ Farewell Trippi’s legacy lives on

Lucky Fish Gamechanger! Massive incentives as competition heats up

Betway Summer Cup Countdown to 28 November

Via Africa To The World! Aussie Horse Of Year’s SA connection

Hong Kong Racing Season starts on Sunday 6 September

On the cover Dressed for success! Lucky Fishsponsored trainer MJ Odendaal was photographed by Candiese Lenferna at Hollywoodbets Greyville last Friday evening. The 2004/5 South African champion jockey, and now South Africa’s bestdressed conditioner, has certainly raised the bar in the fashion stakes.

Issue: 35/2026

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DEAN BIDS TO MAKE IT

SIX SPEEDSTERS

ON TROT The East Cape Awards on Saturday evening will be the main focal point at Fairview this coming weekend, but a competitive eight-race turf card on Friday will be the first point of call for punters.

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Dean Smith – carrying the feature flame as he attempts to make it six on trot | Credit: Pauline Herman

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Anuschka’s World – a nominee for Champion Sprinter and a factor in the feature | Credit: Pauline Herman

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Much like our August schedule, September is a very quiet month on the SA feature race programme and on Friday the R175 000 non black-type Speedsters Stakes heads the programme.

A nominee alongside heavy-hitters Kingdundee and Cruise Control for the Champion Sprinter award on Saturday evening, Anuschka’s World is the first of a trio of Kelly Mitchley runners.

A field of eight speed merchants go to post for the 1000m contest and it will be an emotional time for Dean Smith and his team.

The Riverton Stud-bred One World gelding finished 0,6 lengths behind Danish Dynamite in the Umngeni Handicap.

His multiple champion trainer Dad Gavin registered the yard’s fifth consecutive success in the Speedsters Stakes when the Ridgemont-bred Canford Cliffs mare Song Of Myself won the 2025 renewal. Gavin passed away in October 2025.

He has won once, finished second twice and third twice from six starts over Friday’s track and trip. On his previous form, he should be involved in the finish.

Dean has taken the baton over with aplomb and he saddles a coupling of Danish Dynamite and Exceedingly Glam, ridden by 2025 winning jockey Yuzae Ramzan, on Friday. A daughter of Erik The Red, Danish Dynamite travelled to Durban for the Listed HKIR In December Umngeni Handicap at Hollywoodbets Greyville last start. She finished 4,15 lengths behind surprise winner Fortress Of Fire there in a stampede. That wasn’t bad form and it is worth noting that she has won twice and finished second twice from as many starts over Friday’s course and distance. Her best form has come under Craig Zackey and back on her home turf, she should have a big winning chance. Exceedingly Glam has proven competitive on the Fairview polytrack since relocating from the Cape, and has won her last three starts in good style.

Kelly also saddles ex Highveld speedball Mover And Shaker, who gets the tonguetie, and the Declarationofpeace gelding Warofdynamite, whose better stats have been on the polytrack. Champion combination Alan Greeff and Richard Fourie team up with the Global View gelding Fairy Knight who appeared to lack a strong finish in the first leg of the NonBlack Type Nelson Mandela Bay Racing Poly Challenge last time. He finished 1,25 lengths behind Anuschka’s World three runs ago. The pair meet on the same weight terms here and he may have to settle for the same result. Greeff stablemate is the 7yo Cliff Top who finished 1,3 lengths behind the Anuschka’s World in the race referred to above. He is 3kgs worse off at the weights and may have to settle for the same result. The first race at Fairview on Friday is off at 12h15. Read more about the East Cape Awards on page 76 of this issue.

Whether she can be as effective on the turf, remains a question and her Cape form suggests that she may be looking for a few lengths when it really counts. 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 7

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FAREWELL TO TRIPPI 1997 - 2026

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Drakenstein Stud have announced the passing of Champion sire and Equus Outstanding sire Trippi. Trippi – will leave a lasting hoofprint on SA racing 2 SEPTEMBER |9 Credit: 2026 Supplied

The American-bred son of End Sweep, whose stud career linked Ocala, Florida, and South Africa, helped to shape Drakenstein Stud. After establishing the Stud in 2003, Gaynor Rupert travelled to America to view 28 potential stallions, and was immediately captivated by the magnificent bay, describing him as the most beautiful horse she had ever seen. Gaynor made the decision to purchase him as her first sire to stand at Drakenstein, and the beginning of a legacy was born. He travelled to South Africa after the 2008 northern-hemisphere breeding season, where he became the foundation sire of a stallion operation that has since established itself as one of the country’s principal nurseries. Foaled in Florida in 1997, Trippi was bred by Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. and raced for Dogwood Stable under Todd Pletcher. He won seven of his 14 starts, headed by the Grade 1 Vosburgh Stakes, with further graded victories in the Riva Ridge Stakes, Tom Fool Handicap, Flamingo Stakes, and Swale Stakes. He then stood at Ocala Stud, where his American crops established him among Florida’s leading sires before his move to Drakenstein. The change of hemisphere did not narrow his influence. Trippi supplied speed, precocity, and, often, the ability to carry that speed beyond sprint distances. He was South Africa’s champion sire in 2015/16 and, from 1,073 runners worldwide, sired 857 winners, including 94 stakes winners of 191 stakes races. His record includes 14 individual Grade 1 winners. His South African record was led by two champions now standing alongside his legacy at Drakenstein. 10 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

Charles Dickens, winner of the Cape Guineas, Gold Challenge, and King’s Plate, was a miler of remarkable acceleration and consistency. Jet Dark won five Grade 1 races, including two Queen’s Plates, two Champions Cups, and the Cape Town Met, and was effective from a mile to 2,000 metres. Both have retired to stud, giving Trippi a direct route into the next generation of South African pedigrees. There was immense depth behind them. Winchester Mansion won the 2023 Durban July, while Trippi’s other South African Grade 1 winners included Afrikaburn, Deo Juvente, Inara, October Morn, Real Princess, Chimichuri Run, Lobo’s Legend, For The Lads, Sweet Pepper and Trip Of Fortune. His better runners ranged from early twoyear-olds to older horses, and from fast-track performers to horses capable of succeeding in South Africa’s foremost middle-distance races. His American legacy has proved equally durable through his daughters. Miss Macy Sue, one of his early US-bred stakes winners, produced Liam’s Map and Not This Time. Liam’s Map won the Grade 1 Woodward Stakes and Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile before becoming an established Kentucky stallion. Not This Time, runner-up in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, has developed into a leading sire in the United States, standing at $250,000 this season. Their successes have given Trippi an international influence as a broodmare sire beyond the achievements recorded in his own name. In South Africa, too, his daughters have become a significant part of the broodmare population.

Trippi – a champion will be missed | Credit: Supplied

Caption | Credit: Credit

As a broodmare sire of 66 stakes winners, including 9 Grade 1 winners, he’s continued to produce leading runners, reinforcing the qualities for which he became known. The value of that female line, together with the stud careers of Charles Dickens and Jet Dark, means his contribution will continue on more than one branch. For Gaynor Rupert, Trippi’s importance was inseparable from the development of Drakenstein itself. He arrived before the farm had an established stallion roster and supplied it with an identity: an internationally proven horse whose results justified the decision to bring him to the Cape. Many of his best South African horses were bred or raced by Drakenstein, among them Charles Dickens, Inara, Winchester Mansion, and

Trip Of Fortune, making his story inextricably bound to the farm’s own. Trippi’s final crop are three-year-olds in South Africa this season. As they continue to race, and as his sons’ first generations come through, the influence of Drakenstein’s first stallion remains very much a part of the present rather than only its history. Trippi was expertly cared for by his long-time stallion handler Schedrick Oerson, whose favourite moments with Trippi were their daily walks on the farm in the mornings, just the two of them, like old friends. Schedrick shared that it was a privilege and an honour to work with him. Thanks to www.raceform.co.za 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 11

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ith the approaching 2026/27 season’s classics, I thought I would delve into the prospects of a 3yo son of the mighty Vercingetorix, out of the Champion Racemare Bela-Bela. His name is AQUAE CALIDAE - and it means “hot waters” or “warm waters” in Latin. Aquae Calidae was bred by Varsfontein Stud and is owned by Lady Christine Laidlaw’s Khaya Stables, and trained by Eric Sands. Selected by trainer Eric Sands and Form Bloodstock’s Jehan Malherbe, he was purchased as a yearling for R2,250,000 at the 2025 National Yearling Sale. He was a very high quality individual, and has developed into a promising 3yo, showing impressive form in his 3 starts at 2. Aquae Calidae kicked off his racing career on 30 March 2026 in a 1200m juvenile maiden at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, running a cracking fast finishing second to the highly regarded Kalahari King. He was beaten 1,25 lengths, notably finishing ahead of Vibe Check, who went on to win the Omoda Gr2 Golden Horseshoe at Hollywoodbets Greyville. He returned over the same track and trip for his v

AQUAE CALIDAE - as a yearling at Varsfontein Stud. (Photo: Jeremy Nelson)

next run on 24th May, and made light work of it. Taking up the running early, he completely outclassed the field to score by an effortless 5 lengths, easing down before the post. While the field wasn’t strong, it was the sheer ease and swagger of the win that caught everyone’s eye. Stepping up in class and distance for his final 2yo start, he headed to Hollywoodbets Durbanville on 27 June for the Gr3 Langerman over 1500m. Facing a much sharper test in a strong field, he showed just

AQUAE CALIDAE - 3yo colt by Vercingetorix ex Bela-Bela by Dynasty - winning the Gr3 Langerman over 1500m as a 2yo. (Photo: Chase Liebenberg)

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BELA-BELA - at Varsfontein Stud with her 2024 filly foal by Gimmethegreenlight (AUS). (Photo: Jeremy Nelson)

how good he is by quickening smartly when asked, pulling clear to beat Hero’s Journey by 2,25 lengths, with From The Island 5,75 lengths back in third. The Langerman is always a strong form reference heading into the Hollywoodbets Gr1 Cape Guineas, and on the evidence so far, Aquae Calidae looks like a genuine contender for the classic. Aquae Calidae’s trainer Eric Sands says “he is a very special horse, and will be aimed at the major classics in Cape town this season”. His dam BELA-BELA was Equus Champion 3yo Filly 2016 and is already the dam of CIAO BELLA (Gr2 Western Cape Fillies Championship, 2nd Gr1 Cape Fillies Guineas), who’s Vercingetorix colt topped the 2026 August 2yo Sale, selling for R6m. This is the MYSTIC SPRING (IRE) family, responsible for a host of top class individuals including recent superstars EIGHT ON EIGHTEEN and SNOWDANCE (dam of SNOW PILOT). Bela-Bela won 7 races and R2,636,875, including the Gr1 Garden Province Stakes, Gr1 Woolavington 2000, Gr1 Paddock Stakes, Gr2 KZN Fillies Guineas, and was 3rd Gr1 Paddock Stakes, Gr1 Gold Challenge, etc. Aquae Calidae’s sire VERCINGETORIX claimed the General Sires Championship for the second consecutive season. The impressive 16,2-hand stallion enjoyed an

outstanding racing career, becoming a Gr1 winner in only his 4th South African start and earning the Equus Champion 3-Year-Old Colt title. He remained unbeaten in his first 6 starts, culminating in the Gr1 Jebel Hatta at Meydan in Dubai. He later finished second in the Gr1 Dubai Duty Free Stakes behind Japanese champion Just A Way (JPN), rated the World’s Best Racehorse of 2014. Vercingetorix then traveled to Hong Kong, where he finished 3rd in the Gr1 Queen Elizabeth II Cup behind Designs On Rome (IRE), the Hong Kong Horse of the Year. Vercingetorix has become a leading force at stud, and during the 2025/2026 season, he produced 21 stakes winners of 34 stakes races, with total earnings of R40,770,265. Vercingetorix was also crowned leading sire of 3-year-olds, with 7 stakes winners of 11 stakes races.

Champion Sire VERCINGETORIX (Photo: Jeremy Nelson)

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R4,5 MILLION LUCKY FISH NATIONAL TRAINER & JOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIPS ANNOUNCED Sportsbook operator Lucky Fish has boldly announced its sponsorship of the SA National Trainer and Jockey Championships, together with an unprecedented Apprentice and Grooms Championship for the 2026-27 season. 16 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

All four competitions will encompass race meetings staged in all four racing jurisdictions in South Africa. The Lucky Fish National Trainers Championship will reward the top 10 trainers based on the total number of winners they saddled during the season, rather than the stakes earned, which determines the official ‘Champion Trainer’ title. With the aim of encouraging trainers to raid outside their home centres, there is a proviso that trainers must have saddled a minimum number of 6 horses outside of their designated home jurisdiction. In addition, the trainer must win a race in two of the four jurisdictions to qualify (for clarity, Turffontein and the Vaal racecourses are in the same jurisdiction). Similarly, the Lucky Fish National Jockeys Championship will reward the top 10 jockeys based on the total number of winners ridden across South Africa. To qualify, jockeys must have ridden at least 5 winners outside of their home jurisdiction. A total prize fund of R2 million has been allocated to each championship with R1 million awarded to the champion trainer and R1 million to the champion jockey, making these the richest performancebased awards of their kind in South African racing. The sport’s emerging stars have not been overlooked! Lucky Fish has put forward an additional R200,000 for the Apprentice Championship,

with the top five apprentices sharing the prize money and the winner receiving a potentially life-changing R100,000. To qualify, apprentices must have ridden at least 1 winner in two of the four jurisdictions. The country’s grooms will also be rewarded by Lucky Fish for their dedicated care of the equine athletes. The top thirty grooms who take charge of the most winners nationwide will share in R300 000, with the most successful groom earning the first prize of R50 000.

Vishen Naidoo, General Manager of Lucky Fish said: “We believe the additional financial incentive for the participants in all four categories will elevate the competitive environment to a new level, while encouraging participants to compete across the country. We wish all the participants the very best in the pursuit of the ultimate prize. Lucky Fish is committed to giving back to racing”. 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 17

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KAVANAGH AND TSHITE CROWNED CHAMPIONS IN THRILLING 2026 EDITION

DURBAN, 30 AUGUST 2026 – Hollywood Athletics Club star, Tayla Kavanagh and Phantane Athletics Club elite, Tshepo Tshite emerged victorious at the 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban 10km on Sunday, capping a spectacular race day at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead. With a sold-out field of 15 000 runners, the sixth edition of the Hollywoodbets Durban 10km delivered high-quality racing, fierce competition and a celebration of the running community in the heart of Durban. Kavanagh delivered a remarkable performance to claim her maiden Hollywoodbets Durban 10km victory in 31:39, despite taking a fall shortly before the 4km mark. The Hollywood Athletics Club athlete recovered quickly and battled through challenging windy conditions to secure the win. Her teammate and defending champion, Neheng Khatala, finished second in 32:01, while Boxer Running Club’s Karabo Mailula took third in 33:01. Kavanagh’s winning time also established a new course record, adding another milestone to an already impressive season.

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“No matter what happens, I always tell myself you’ve got to get up and keep going. After I took a fall, that’s exactly what I told myself mentally, just get up, you’ve still got to put in the work and get the job done,” said Kavanagh. Her victory was particularly special on home soil, with the Hollywood Athletics Club athlete producing one of the standout performances of the day in front of thousands of supporters. Tshite produced a powerful late surge to claim the men’s title in 28:18, finishing three seconds ahead of Kenya’s Stephen Kangethe, who crossed the line in 28:21. “The race was good even though I think I have bad luck when it comes to 10km,” said Tshite. The race also marked the continuation of Hollywoodbets’ partnership with Renault, with the automaker supporting the 2026 edition as a key vehicle partner for the second consecutive year. With the winners crowned and another successful Durban edition in the books, attention now turns to the next chapter of the Hollywoodbets 10km series, with the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km scheduled for 18 October 2026.

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Champion trainer Syd Laird and Anita Akal | Credit: Supplied

FAREWELL ANITA -Enjoy The Break! v

KZN Racing bid farewell to photographer Anita Akal at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday evening after 55 years behind the lens. Race Coast thanked Anita for so many incredible years of capturing the memories, moments and milestones that make racing so special.

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Quantum Theory (Smanga Khumalo) wins the 2025 renewal | Credit: JC Photos

“This is truly an incredible achievement and a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. Wishing you all the very best as you enter your retirement,” said a short statement issued on social media. Anita holds a record of photographing 55 Durban July’s, which should stand for a long time! “The winner in my second July was Yataghan (1973). I remember it clearly because the owner was Dutch and he was a difficult person. I showed Yatagan’s owner a picture I shot and he asked me about the unknown man standing next to his wife. He wanted the guy cut out and that was not easy to do back then...we eventually did,“ Anita told the Daily News. Regardless of that experience, Akal regards every July as memorable. “It is a very special opportunity to photograph a July.” What to wear is also a big part of the excitement for her. “You think you look drop dead gorgeous and then they (racing officials) put a photographer’s bib on you. It’s a marathon day, I’m on my feet the entire time and I shoot about 2 000 pictures.” For the last 11 years she has been working in tandem with her daughter Anneke on racedays, because she had a bad fall on the tarmac at Hollywoodbets Greyville and sustained serious injuries. “It was raining and I skidded. I smashed everything on my right-hand side. My husband (Ronald) and our two children (Fred and Anneke), who were both accountants, pushed me through.”

Anita is naturally a determined person and her family’s support proved to be the tonic that got her on the road to recovery. “Anneke went the extra mile when she didn’t have to, she gave up her accounting practice to take over for me. “She was already well immersed in photography by then. She is doing superb work and is well loved by our clients.” Akal said when Anneke was younger, she would “smuggle her into the racecourse because Under 18s were not allowed entry. “She was 10 when I took her to the July and had her positioned at the top of the grandstand with a camera. I told her when those horses come past she must put her finger down and fire away.” Her family relocated to South Africa from Utrecht, Holland, when she was 12. “My father was a businessman for many years and he had to choose between South America or SA. His choice was made over a flip of a coin and the rest is history.” They settled in Durban initially and she attended the Maris Stella School before her family moved to Johannesburg. After completing school she worked as a sales representative.She did a course in photography and was the only female in a class of more than 30, and also learned the art of producing pictures in a dark room. “I have always been fascinated with photography since I was little and bought myself a camera with my pocket money.” After the death of her brother, Anita and her mother relocated to Durban, and within six months she engaged Ronald, who passed away in 2024. 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 23

Champion trainer Syd Laird and Anita Akal | Credit: Supplied

“I’ve known him since I was little, his family were wellknown business people. His sister was in school with me. Ronald owned horses with friends and encouraged me to take pictures of them when they won.” Anita said at that stage a photographic company based at Durban Turf Club took all the pictures and hand-coloured them, while she was producing colour photos. The general secretary of the turf club approached her about taking pictures for them, even though some of their directors resisted. As the clientele gained confidence in her work, she was approached by the Clairwood and Scottsville Turf Clubs to do the same at their race meetings. Her long association with racing afforded her interactions with many famous people including royalty like King Goodwill Zwelithini, Queen Elizabeth and King Charles, and horseracing personalities like Lester Piggott and Syd Laird. A memorable July was in 1984 when her husband’s horse Versailles, a rank outsider, ran a close second to Devon Air. “That was a very emotional moment. As the horses approached the finish line, I got a bit anxious and dropped my camera.” The other time Anita felt a bit rattled taking photographs was when she was photographing rugby, the 1995 rugby Currie 24 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

Cup Final between Natal and Western Province at Durban’s Kings Park Stadium. Natal won 25-17. During the match Natal’s star winger Cabous van der Westhuizen not only had to weave his way past opposing players before dotting down for a try, but Akal too. She had unwittingly encroached into the ingoal area and into the path of the long-haired van der Westhuizen. “As he approached the tryline, I thought to myself that this was going to be the shot of the century and stepped forward. You can imagine the attention I drew from a crowd of 55 000 and the TV audience.I got such a fright as Cabous approached me and the referee was shouting. I panicked.The racing fraternity was hysterical…they never let me live it down.Cabous had a grin on his face when he dotted-down.” Akal said she has never felt bored in all her years of photography and has learnt to adjust to the digital way of capturing images. “At the end of the day it’s all about your instincts and timing. Something that becomes part of who you are. Horses are magnificent and beautiful animals. Nine times out of ten you will get a lovely picture when they are in full stride. I hope to be taking pictures for as long as I can,” she said. Anneke said: “Working with mom has been an absolute joy, making every task an extra special bonding moment. Her guidance and support have been invaluable. I’m grateful for the experience, together, we’ve created memories that will last a lifetime.”

Race Coast KZN Racing Executive Raf Sheik hands a momento to Anita Akal and her daughter Anneke at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday evening 2 | Credit: Candiese2026 Lenferna SEPTEMBER | 25

Kelly Mitchley proudly receives the Gr2 Douglas Whyte Stakes trophy from then outgoing Race Coast Chairman, Greg Bortz | Credit: Julia Marnewick

KELLY’S

A LUCKY FISH! It takes a brave woman to swim against a sometimes shark-infested tide. Kelly Mitchley saddled her first runner just two months after the Covid-19 lockdown was lifted in South Africa in what was then a seemingly shrinking racing economy, in a climate of post-pandemic doom and gloom.

and professional work-in-progress that has had its challenges and rewards.

Leaping boots ‘n all at a relatively young age into one of the toughest professions on earth, in an uber competitive racing jurisdiction, made little sense to some observers at the time.

“My yard is now well established in Gqeberha. But the satellite base gives us an exciting growth opportunity and provides us with more diversity of options for our string. The Cape summer season is just down the Garden Route, but Summerveld is also a potential springboard for raids on the Highveld feature season,” Kelly told the Sporting Post in a chat on Monday afternoon.

But Kelly’s a brave and tough-as-teak soul, and she often reflects that her life journey with horses started when her mom was 6 months pregnant with her. “She had already bought me two ponies and a horse – so no pressure!” she laughs as she reflects back on a passionate 26 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

Two years after saddling her first runner, Kelly registered her century of winners and this season the 30 year old horsewoman became the first East Cape trainer in modern times to take the plunge by opening a satellite yard at Summerveld in KZN.

Phendula Moyake and Vuyolwethu Nomampelana with stable star Marchland | Credit: Supplied

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She has 74 horses at home, with 12 at Summerveld, and tells us that she is looking forward to a bumper season, as 26 of her equine residents are unraced 2yo’s.

“Everybody has been so professional and helpful. Megan Cloete, who worked for Sharon Kotzen and Glen Kotzen, will be heading up our Summerveld base,” she confirms.

A recent addition to the prestigious Lucky Fish sponsorship stable, Kelly acknowledges the defining moment of her Malmoos filly Marchland’s sensational victory in the R750 000 Gr2 Douglas Whyte Stakes at Hollywoodbets Greyville on the feature climax day at the end of last term.

Kelly has lauded the announcement last Friday evening of the Lucky Fish SA National Trainer and Jockey Championships, together with an Apprentice and Grooms Championship for the 2026-27 season, as ‘hugely exciting’.

The second East Cape winner of the Gr2 feature, after Alan Greeff’s Golden Palm scored in 2025, Marchland was a dual stakes winner coming into the mile contest and produced the goods in fine style for owner Mervin Govender. The victory by the exciting undefeated galloper was actually a remarkable training feat, coming off three months of weather-impacted training at home, and also being Kelly’s first sortie to the holiday province. “The weather at home well and truly knocked grasswork and turf racing for a six for all local yards, and it was so exciting and such a proud moment for our team to be able to bring a highclass filly to Durban into the pressure-cooker of the SA Champions Season, and make such an impact,” she adds enthusiastically. On plans for Marchland, Kelly suggests that the Listed Racehorse Owners Association Stakes at Fairview on 18 October may be her next run, whereafter consideration will be given to targeting the first two legs of the 2027 SA Triple Tiara. “It’s still in the melting pot, but she’s a clearly super-talented and very special filly, and we always need to do what’s best for her,” she adds. Kelly labels the facilities at Summerveld ‘worldclass’ and expressed her thanks to both the Race Coast and Lucky Fish teams for assisting her with a smooth set-up. 28 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

“I think it’s a great incentive for all participating stakeholders, and a positive means of encouraging trainers, particularly, to travel and spread their wings into other jurisdictions.” The Lucky Fish National Trainers Championship will reward the top 10 trainers based on the total number of winners they saddled during the season, rather than the stakes earned, which determines the official ‘Champion Trainer’ title. With the aim of encouraging trainers to raid outside their home centres, there is a proviso that trainers must have saddled a minimum number of 6 horses outside of their designated home jurisdiction. In addition, the trainer must win a race in two of the four jurisdictions to qualify. The Lucky Fish National Jockeys Championship will reward the top 10 jockeys based on the total number of winners ridden across South Africa. To qualify, jockeys must have ridden at least 5 winners outside of their home jurisdiction. A total prize fund of R2 million has been allocated to each championship with R1 million awarded to the champion trainer and R1 million to the champion jockey, making these the richest performance-based awards of their kind in South African racing. “There is plenty to play for and lots of exciting racing ahead. We are aiming to make this our best season ever!” concludes Kelly.

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Rachel Venniker just hours before the awful accident | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

BRAVE RACHEL

IS ‘FINE’ AFTER FIVE HOUR OP Former dual SA champion apprentice Rachel Venniker underwent a five hour long operation at a Durban hospital on Saturday after being injured in a fall during the fourth race at Hollywoodbets Greyville last Friday evening.

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Speaking to the Sporting Post on Monday morning, a heavily medicated, but cheerful Rachel said that there was plenty of swelling, but she was feeling ‘fine’. She indicated that her surgeon would provide a further prognosis in due course and that they were now waiting for the swelling to reduce. Rachel thanked all Sporting Post readers for the well-wishes and said that she sincerely appreciated the care and concern. After falling awkwardly, she reportedly damaged lower vertebrae in her back. The tough-as-teak 25 year old has been a 21st century groundbreaker for the cause of female jockeys in South Africa, in what has traditionally been a largely male-dominated domain. A fierce competitor, Rachel has had her fair share of accidents along the way. And Friday’s accident could be regarded as a freak incident, with Rachel minding her own business on the Social Squad-owned Beer With The Boys approaching the 600m. At that point Wander Skitt ran on to, and clipped, the heels of Record High (Cole Dicken), and stumbled badly and fell, dislodging Nicholas Patel. Rachel’s mount had nowhere to go, and could not avoid the fallen horse and rider, stumbling badly and fell, dislodging her. After Rachel and her colleague were attended to by the paramedics, she was transported to hospital for further attention. Nicholas Patel was on his feet and will require medical clearance before taking up further engagements.

Record High emerged largely unscathed, with Wander Skitt suffering a laceration on the right thorax and a head Injury. Lucinda Woodruff told the Sporting Post that Beer With The Boys was fine, but unsound in front. Born and raised at Summerveld in KwaZulu-Natal, Rachel Venniker has been riding horses since she was four years old. She initially struggled to gain admission to the South African Jockey Academy because she was considered too tall. With the support of former champion jockey and trainer Michael ‘Muis’ Roberts, she eventually secured her place and went on to become champion apprentice in both the 2022 and 2023 seasons before graduating to the senior jockey ranks. She has since established herself as one of South Africa’s top riders and has also impressed on the international stage. In February 2024, she won on her first ride at the International Jockeys Challenge in Saudi Arabia, finishing ahead of several internationally acclaimed female jockeys. Later that year, she made her debut in the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup at Ascot, where she celebrated victory on her first mount before adding a second and thirdplace finish while representing the Rest of the World team. The Jonsson Workwear-sponsored Rachel finished tenth on the SA log last season with 83 winners, and has 4 winners to her name in the first month of this season. We wish her a speedy recovery.

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16 PLAYERS GRAB A SLICE OF

HOLLYWOODBETS

PUNTERS’ CHALLENGE

JACKPOT Sixteen happy players shared the 173rd Hollywoodbets Punters’ Challenge jackpot, the first of the new racing season, at Fairview on Friday, when selecting all eight winners on the card.

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On a relatively punter friendly card, five of the eight races were won by the tote favourite, with Kelly Mitchley and Muzi Yeni enjoying a treble.

didn’t wager the minimum R50 on the betslip, which would have given me a substantially bigger payout. But that’s the way the cookie crumbles, and we box on!”

Yeni has made a strong return to race-riding, with five winners over two days, this past week.

Horse shoe said that the Covid pandemic had largely changed the way his community of punters enjoyed the game.

The Sporting Post chatted to Horse shoe, a 73-year-old pensioner from Elsies River, who was one of the 16 winners, to share the R100 000 jackpot.

“We used to sit at the tote all day and have a drink and fun. Life has changed, and I don’t drink anymore. Often I used to win and then hide the cash away. The next day I couldn’t remember where I had stuck it. But then I would find the cash in my shoes or socks weeks later!” he laughed, adding that he loved his racing and it was still the only real game in town.

Horse shoe proudly mentioned that he was the Elsies River Football Club manager at the time one of the suburb’s favourite sons, Andrew Fortune, was a lethal centre-forward. “Andrew Fortune is a legend on our streets! I play the Hollywoodbets Punters’ Challenge on every raceday. It’s fun and gives us all an opportunity to win. Money is tight so I

Unfortunately, none of the 16 winners took the minimum R50 bet, which would have boosted the jackpot to R1 million!

Friday’s Hollywoodbets Punters’ Challenge honour roll:

•

Punter Alias

•

Ricardo24

•

Horse shoe

•

Mawetho

•

Ueltsaki

•

Small0

•

DonAna

•

Rook18

•

Vaalllll

•

Goldburgikaneng17

•

mosesz123

•

Shaokc

•

LeyTenn17

•

Abigggg

• •

Sooking Ravi r

•

dakha

36 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

An exciting new option has been introduced! The Hollywoodbets Weekly Punters Challenge comes into play from the Hollywoodbets Durbanville racemeeting on Wednesday 2 September.

The new sub league of two leaderboards runs from Monday to Sunday every week, and applies only to the Weekly Points and Most Winners leaderboards on the Punters Challenge website.

• • • • • •

1st: R4 000 2nd: R1 500 3rd: R700 4th: R350 5th to 10th: R200 each 11th to 40th: R75 each

To qualify for prizes, the player must bet at least R150 in total during the week. There is no freeto-play option.

King of the Week Prize

To qualify, players must:

A separate R10 000 prize pool is shared by punter(s) who correctly tip more than 40% of the week’s winners.

• • •

Make selections for at least 2 weekday meetings (Mon-Fri), and Make selections for all weekend race meetings (including special editions), and Meet the R150 betting requirement.

Leaderboard Prizes Each leaderboard (Most Points and Most Winners) has a R10 000 prize pool shared among the top 40 qualifying players:

The Hollywoodbets Punters’ Challenge can be played on all local racemeetings, as well as selected international special edition racemeetings. A reminder that Hong Kong racing returns on Sunday 6 September – and that means more opportunities to strike gold! www.punterschallenge.hollywoodbets.net 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 37

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FORMER FORMER SA SA CHAMPION CHAMPION JOCKEY JOCKEY v

HITS TOP FORM Gavin Lerena’s four-timer at Turffontein on Saturday included a feature double, capped by a dash from the clouds by the Wernars Family’s Bjorn Ironside.

Joint topweight Karate Kid (25-2) was beaten a further two lengths back in third, with the freestriding tote favourite Umzingeli Wenyathi (2-1) a well beaten fourth.

The son of Gimmethegreenlight swooped late to beat the well-supported Max The Magician in the R175 000 Betway Listed Spring Spree Stakes, the opening Highveld black-type feature of the new term.

An R850 000 Cape Premier Yearling Sale purchase, Bjorn Ironside is raced by the Wernars Family and has won 4 races with 10 places from his 17 starts and stakes of R510 544.

After dual Spring Spree Stakes winner Quantum Theory blew in the betting and failed to show, Umzingeli Wenyathi led for most of the journey but came back to his field in the final stages as Max The Magician moved up smartly under Muzi Yeni down the middle.

Bred in partnership by Klawervlei Stud and the late David Abery, he is a 5yo gelded son of Gimmethegreenlight (More Than Ready) out of the Trippi mare, Dance At Dawn.

But dashing through down the inside rail under a vigorous ride by Lerena, Bjorn Ironside (14-1) produced a sustained effort running fresh after a 20 week break to beat Max The Magician (2810) by a length in a time of 71,89 secs for the inside track 1200m.

Drakenstein’s champion son of End Sweep, Trippi was broodmare sire of both feature winners on the day. He passed this past week, read more on page 08.

2 SEPTEMBER 2026 JC | 41 Gavin Lerena steers Bjorn Ironside to a first stakes success | Credit: Photos

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Gavin Lerena has Anchorage in control as Season’s Wish (Muzi Yeni) chases hard | Credit: JC Photos

VERCINGETORIX’S

TURFFONTEIN DOUBLE v

Maine Chance Farm’s multiple champion sire Vercingetorix has made a fine start to the new season and the champion son of Silvano enjoyed feature race success at Turffontein on Saturday. Vercingetorix’s four-year-old daughter Anchorage caught the eye when flying up to land the Betway non black-type The Lady’s Stakes run over the 1200m inside track. Trained by Candice and Tammy Dawson, the filly was given a well-judged ride by Gavin Lerena, who visited the winner’s box four times on the day. Lerena dropped Anchorage (4-1) out in a bid to overcome the wide draw, and brought the 4yo home with a powerful late finish to get up and beat Season’s Greetings (7-1) by 0,80 lengths in a time of 72,43 secs. Bright And Brazen (25-2) completed the trifecta, with the tote favourite Winter Rainfall (4-1) in fourth.

Bred by Klawervlei Stud, Anchorage is a full-sister to Fifty Fiver, winner of the 2021 CTS De Grendel Ready To Run Stakes. The pair were produced by Polar Trip, a daughter of recently deceased champion sire Trippi. Coincidentally, all of Lerena’s winners on Saturday had Trippi,as their broodmare sire. Anchorage has won 3 races with 6 places from 12 starts for stakes of R357 419, and is owned in partnership by Dave Maclean, Larry Nestadt, Gary Player Stud Farm (Pty) Ltd & Reon Barnard. Champion Sire in South Africa for the past two seasons, Vercingetorix enjoyed a double at Turffontein on Saturday, with his son Navaseven winning the eighth race. The next 4Racing fixture is at the Vaal on Thursday 3 September. The first of eight races is off at 12h40. 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 43

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Mocha Blend (Tristan Godden) wins the 2025 Betway Summer Cup | Credit: JC Photos

4RACING & BETWAY’S

SUMMER PARTNERSHIP

4Racing has announced the continuation of its successful partnership with Betway South Africa, a leading sports betting and gaming brand, which will once again see Betway take headline sponsorship of a number of feature races across the 4Racing calendar, including 4Racing’s marquee event, the Betway Summer Cup at Turffontein on Saturday, 28 November 2026.

The renewal extends a partnership that began in the 2022/23 racing season and has played an important role in the growth and development of some of 4Racing’s most prominent feature race fixtures.

The partnership achieved another milestone in 2024 when the stake cheque increased again to R6 million, making the Betway Summer Cup the richest race in Africa at the time. This year’s renewal will see Betway headline the country’s premier Johannesburg racing and social occasion for the fifth consecutive year. The Betway Summer Cup has become much more than a race meeting.

It is Johannesburg’s best end-of-year event, bringing together racing fans, fashion, entertainment and the city’s vibrant social scene for a celebration that has become firmly established on the national events calendar.

Betway’s association with the Summer Cup began in 2022, when the race was staged under the theme Golden Summer and the sponsorship helped lift the prize money from R2 million to R2.5 million.

This year’s theme, Celebrate Summer, will capture the spirit of the occasion as Johannesburg comes together to mark the start of the summer season in style.

The following year, Betway’s support saw the stake double with R5 million going the way of 2023 winner, Royal Victory.

The partnership has helped the Summer Cup maintain its position among South Africa’s flagship races and has contributed to ensuring 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 45

that the race remains one of the country’s major sporting and social events. 4Racing CEO Patrick Duff commented, “4Racing is delighted to continue our partnership with Betway, whose commitment to South African horseracing over the past five years has helped us grow the Betway Summer Cup into one of the country’s major racing and social occasions. The Summer Cup is uniquely Johannesburg’s race – a great day of racing, entertainment, fashion and celebration – and we are excited to once again work with Betway to deliver an unforgettable experience. With ‘Celebrate Summer’ as our theme for 2026, we look forward to welcoming racing fans and people from all across Joburg to Turffontein for another spectacular Summer Cup.” Echoing Patricks statement, Betway Africa Head of Sponsorship, Jason Shield added: “We are pleased to have extended our current agreement with 4Racing and are looking forward to this year’s Betway Summer Cup. The Betway Summer Cup is a property we are really

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proud of and as always, we are committed to delivering an exceptional race day experience for all those in attendance. The Betway Summer Cup is Gauteng’s most anticipated horseracing event and we urge the public to join us as we “Celebrate Summer”. 4Racing extended its sincere thanks to Betway for its continued commitment to South African horseracing and for its ongoing support of the Betway Summer Cup. The partnership has helped create an event that celebrates not only the sport and its stars, but also the people, passion and entertainment that make racing such a special part of South African life. With Celebrate Summer as its theme, the 2026 Betway Summer Cup promises to once again bring the best of racing, fashion, entertainment and Johannesburg’s unmistakable energy together at Turffontein on 28 November.

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SA Champion jockey Craig Zackey guides Littlemissmillion to victory | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

DAUGHTER OF ELUSIVE FORT

SET FOR RETURN TO RACING The Tyrone Zackey-trained Littlemissmillion dashed the hopes of SA Triple Tiara pretender Hazy Dazy when winning the R750 000 Wilgerbosdrift Bridget Oppenheimer Gr2 SA Oaks on 2 April. 48 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

“Dad lost one or two relatively big owners, and we decided to restock his yard. There is not In an age of big-ticket dominance, Nadine and too much science in the Kevin forked out R50 000 on the BSA Online purchases – just dreams platform for the Croft Stud & Helene Taylor and lots of love. Our top bred daughter of SA Derby winner, Elusive Fort, who could line up in the Betway Gr1 guy Smanjemanje was Summer Cup on 28 November. by Kahal (broodmare sire While the Highveld showpiece may seem of Littlemissmillion) and I like a swipe at the stars at this stage, the always wanted an Elusive fairer sex have certainly held their own in the Fort baby. Dad loves Summer Cup in the modern era, with names like Ilha Da Vitoria (2005), Flirtation (2010), training stayers, so we Dancewiththedevil (2011) and the top rank bought Littlemissmillion Summer Pudding (2020) on the honour roll. from Neil Croft and Helen The 2025 finish was dominated by 4yo fillies Taylor in Stilbaai. It was Mocha Blend and Olivia’s Way. quite funny as we had to “She’s not big but she is beautiful and she wait two weeks for her to has a turn of foot on her!” said Nadine, who arrive as we had to arrange explained why Littlemissmillion has not seen race action since her peak victory in April. special transport – there is no regular float in that part “After the Oaks win she was given time out and a long rest. Dad is a very patient trainer of the world!” she told us and only does what’s best for the horse. She after the Oaks victory. had a hard campaign running in all 3 legs of Nadine and Kevin Backos’ R50 000 BSA Online Sale purchase broke the heart of the gallant Hazy Dazy (13-10) to beat the Spies Racing star by 2 lengths after grabbing first run on the daughter of Act Of War.

the SA Triple Tiara and he felt she needed some time out. She is currently back in training and is aiming for some of the small features in the new season. If all goes well, we will also look at a possible run in the Betway Summer Cup.” Nadine Backos has been a massive supporter of the Tyrone Zackey yard through some tough years.

By Elusive Fort (Fort Wood), Littlemissmillion is out of the four-time winning Kahal mare Brigtnumberfive, who won from 1400m to a mile. A winner of 4 races from 7 starts with earnings of R712 345, Littlemissmillion has a bright 4yo career ahead of her and could yet be another summer fairytale! 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 49

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TURFFONTEIN PARADE RING

GETS A FACELIFT

4Racing is set to undertake a refurbishment of the front parade ring at Turffontein Racecourse as part of its ongoing investment in improving raceday facilities and the experience for owners, trainers, racing professionals and racegoers.

The front parade ring remained in use for the Betway Spring Spree meeting on Saturday, 29 August 2026, after which racing operations will temporarily move to Turffontein’s original back parade ring while the refurbishment takes place. The planned improvements will include the relocation of the second- and third-place boxes to the opposite side of the winner’s box, as well as an extension of the podium area to create significantly more space for owners, trainers and other stakeholders during presentations.

The refurbishment will also improve the overall functionality and presentation of the parade ring and winner’s enclosure area.

The intention is for the work to be completed in time for racing to return to the front parade ring for the Betway Joburg Spring Challenge on Saturday, 3 October 2026. The temporary use of the back parade ring will allow racing operations to continue while the improvements are undertaken. Gabriel Soma, 4Racing’s Head of Racing Operations, said: “This refurbishment forms part of our ongoing investment in Turffontein and our commitment to improving the raceday experience for our stakeholders. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the upgraded front parade ring for the Betway Joburg Spring Challenge in October.” •

Media release by 4Racing on Wednesday, 26 August 2026.

Turffontein will be undergoing renovations |2026 Credit: 2 SEPTEMBER | 4Racing 51

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NHA RULING v

ON EXTENDED LAY-OFFS The National Horseracing Authority recently advised trainers of the revised requirements applicable to horses returning to racing following a prolonged absence. In terms of Rule 10.5.7, a trainer, assistant trainer or stable employee is required to inform the Stipendiary Board and/or NHA veterinarian of the reason for a horse’s prolonged absence from racing, if such period is 120 days or more. Trainers are encouraged to provide this information as early as possible, particularly where the absence is related to injury, illness, rehabilitation or any other veterinary or welfare-related reason. Effective 1 September 2026, the following requirements will apply: A horse that has not raced for 180 days or more may not be declared to race until an approved veterinary certificate confirming the horse is fit and suitable to return to racing has been submitted.

A horse that has not raced for 240 days or more may not be declared to race until: 1. An approved veterinary certificate confirming the horse is fit and suitable to return to racing has been submitted; and 2. The horse has subsequently successfully completed a veterinary gallop. These requirements are intended to ensure that the horse is fit, healthy and suitable to return to racing, while also supporting the welfare of the horse following a prolonged period away from racing. In addition, only veterinary certificates completed on the official NHA Veterinary Certificate template will be accepted. Courtesy of the National Racing Bureau, the Sporting Post publishes comments by trainers in our daily raceday previews pertaining to runners returning from absences of 120 days or more. 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 55

That’s My Baby (Anaas Mosaheb) registers a smart win | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

TIMES ON SLOW SIDE UNDER LIGHTS With the going officially declared as soft, the false rail out 8m, and a strong head wind, the times were naturally slow at the Lucky Fish Night Racing ‘Go Greek’ fixture on the turf at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday. 56 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

Indeed, with the exception of the 1000m event, all of the races were run more than 3 seconds slower than the class averages.

This race was won in a time 3 seconds faster than the opening maiden event over the same distance won by BELLO GALLICO.

The Anita Akal - Celebrating 55 Years A Stakes over 1400m was the highlight of the evening and the carded twelve runners boasted an average merit rating of 107.

Track Conditions:

Having won impressively last time out, the very highly regarded Esteemed was all the rage in the betting market and eventually left the stalls deep in the red at 5/10. He raced sixth some five lengths off the pace coming off the bend and at that stage he looked to have every chance. Despite the urgings of Richard Fourie though, the son of Rafeef never looked comfortable in the straight, and although he did look to be quickening late on, he finished a well beaten fifth. Richard reported after the race that Esteemed had made an abnormal respiratory noise in running, but nothing was reported by the vet. Victory instead went to the 6yo mare THAT’S MY BABY (hung out from 200m). Shouldering just 48.9kg after taking Anaas Mosaheb’s apprentice allowance and overweight into consideration, Sean Tarry’s charge raced a length and a half behind the favourite for most of the journey. Without a win in 419 days coming into the race, this soft going specialist showed a nice turn of foot at the business end of the race and cruised clear to score by three and a quarter after striking the front just 70m or so from home. That’s My Baby was later reported by the vet as coughing.

Going: Penetrometer:

Soft 28

Rain:

Last 24 hour Nil – Last 7 days 24mm

Irrigation:

Last 24 hours Nil – Last 7 days 30mm

False Rail:

Wind: Course Variant:

20-55km/h North Easterly head wind 3,14s slow

The supporting act was the Tote For The Win Middle Stakes over 2000m and in what proved to be the quicker of the two races over the distance, the progressive 5yo Var gelding TUNGUSKA (4/1 into 3/1) registered his fourth career victory. Taking a big step up in class here after winning impressively last time out, Ricky Maingard’s charge was always travelling well and sat sixth with just four and a half lengths to find. After gaining a soft lead in a race that was run almost a second slower than the open maiden over the same distance between the 1000m and 600m markers, the well-supported favourite Salani Kahle (3/1 into 5/2) made the running. The board topper found nothing when the race developed into a sprint at the top of the straight though and faded right out to finish last of the nine.

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Tunguska meanwhile only had to be ridden with hands and heels in order to strike the front 250m out and only having to be shaken up, and given a tap over the final 100m, he won well by a length and a quarter from the running on Cleartherunway.

There was a major gamble on the Anaas Mosaheb ridden Grand Appeal (10/1 into 28/10) though, and that one was sent off as the tote favourite. Drawn widest of the nine, Justin Snaith’s charge was not the quickest into stride and raced seventh early on.

Albeit by just 0,33 seconds, the Lucky Fish Winning Streak Class 4 (f&m) was the faster of the two 1800m races on the card and here a major upset was to be had when the friendless Act Of War mare HURRICANE FLIGHT registered only her second career victory from 33 starts.

The field was very tightly bunched coming off the bend and at the top of the straight barely three lengths covered all.

Freely available at 25/1 at the off, Doug Campbell’s charge was always handy. Another to take full advantage of a very light weight under apprentice Anaas Mosaheb (3 winners on the evening) though, the 6yo quickened well over the final 400m and comfortably accounted for the gallant front runner Cool Wind by a length and three quarters. Race seven on the card was the Bet With Tote www.tote.co.za Class 5 over 1200m and here victory went to the bookmakers’ favourite THE SWAN SONG.

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He was ridden to lead approaching the 200m marker and under a determined ride from Richard Fourie he held on by a neck from the running on money horse. Grand Appeal had raced behind the winner and whereas that one found a dream split going through the 400m, Grand Appeal didn’t find the clearest of passages. Fastest Times: 1400m (2) That’s My Baby 1800m (2) Hurricane Flight 2000m (2) Tunguska 400-finish Fleur De Ling

85,63 115,09 126,91 23,09

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A delighted Shalton Sesingi returns on Smorgasbord | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

SESINGI OPENS WITH A

CRACKER

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The Form Guide www.galloptv.co.za Middle Stakes over 1000m topped the bill in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday and in a time just 0,82 seconds outside the course record, Louis Goosen’s 8yo Twice Over gelding Smorgasbord registered his sixth career victory to give a young apprentice his first winner. Shouldering just 48,3kg taking into account apprentice Shalton Sesingi’s allowance and overweight, the friendless veteran (16/1) raced in the back rank early on but was only four lengths off the pace.

She was ridden to lead going through the 400m and having to be hard ridden over the final 200m she kept on strongly to beat another 3yo in Lady Godiva (hanging in throughout) by three quarters.

He ran on strongly at the business end of the race and in what proved to be a real thriller, he got up in the dying strides to deny the well-supported second favourite Donquerari (5/1 into 28/10).

Track Conditions:

The winner recorded a time of 22,19 seconds over the final 400m and that proved to be the quickest for that segment of the afternoon. Apprentice Sesingi was fined R1000 for failing to weigh out at the correct weight. Three of the afternoon’s eight races were staged over 1200m. The closing Hollywoodbets Bright Future Class 4 (f&m) was the fastest of these and here another upset was to be had when the 3yo RAGS TO RICHES recorded her second victory from just four starts. In what proved to be the quickest of all of the eight races between the 1000m and 600m marks, the daughter of Chimichuri Run (the course record holder over this course and distance) was soon up handy and raced prominent throughout. 62 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

Going:

Good (both tracks)

Penetrometer:

23 (both tracks)

Rain:

Last 7 days Nil

Irrigation:

Last 24 hours Nil - Last 7 days 10mm

False Rail:

Wind: Course Variant:

10-15km/h South Easterly tail wind 0,87s fast (straight) – 1,06s fast (bend)

The Bet With Colossus www.tote.co.za Class 4 (f&m) was not surprisingly the quicker of the two 1600m races on the card and here the well-supported favourite ANOTHER DREAM (33/10 into 33/20) registered her fourth win from fourteen starts.

Deepest Water made the running whilst in what soon became a very strung-out field, Lucinda Woodruff ’s charge sat fourth with six and a half lengths to find.

C Stakes was the quicker of the two 1400m events and here victory went to the lightly raced 5yo RUN FOREST RUN (28/10 into 17/10).

She ran on strongly in the straight under a well-judged ride from Gavin Lerena and after striking the front approaching the 100m marker, she went on to score by three quarters from the running on Peace Rose (stubborn to load).

Making only his ninth racecourse appearance here, the well-supported favourite was restless in the stalls, but despite losing a length at the start he was soon nicely positioned just three and a half lengths off the pace in fourth.

The runner-up had raced some four lengths behind the winner and recorded the fastest 400m to finish time in the race.

He put his head in front passing the 200m marker and although the easy to back Red Mountain challenged strongly below the distance, he did have that one held by just under a half at the wire.

Jockey Athandiwe Mgudlwa was fined R1800 for striking Peace Rose more than the permitted ten times (12). Trainer Lucinda Woodruff took just two runners to the meeting, and both found the winners’ enclosure with both.

Fastest Times: 1200m (3) Rags To Riches 1400m (2) Run Forest Run 1600m (2) Another Dream 400-finish Smorgasbord

68,62 83,96 96,04 22,19

Run in a time over 1,77 seconds faster than the D Stakes, the Lucky Fish Fortune Cup

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REIGN MAN’S

CLASSIC

BLOODLINES Promising Blue Sky Thoroughbreds-bred three-year-old Reign Man, who romped home to a facile maiden win at his second outing at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday to give trainer Lucinda Woodruff the first leg of a double, has a pedigree sporting some of the finest bloodlines in the studbook.

Calvin Habib returns on Reign Man | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

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Sunday’s winner, a R220 000 purchase by his astute trainer off the 2025 BSA KZN Yearling Sale, is from the fourth crop of his sire Danon Platina, Japan’s Champion 2YO Colt of 2014. By legendary racehorse and sire Deep Impact, Danon Platina won five of his 15 starts including the 2014 Gr1 Asahi Hai Futurity - a race which boasts an honour roll including stars such as Narita Brian, Fuji Kiseki, and Do Deuce. Danon Platina, whose sire enjoyed great success with Storm Cat line mares, has followed in his sire’s footsteps with the Mauritzfontein resident faring well when sent Storm Cat line broodmares. To date, all of Danon Platina’s graded stakes winners are out of mares sired by Storm Cat line sires.

Reign Man is one of several promising threeyear-olds representing Danon Platina with others including Amusnet Gr2 Golden Slipper third Tudor Rose, and World Pool Gr1 Moment Of The Day Premiers Champion Stakes runnerup Kazenoyoni. Danon Platina made a fine start to his stud career, with his first crop headed by Mike De Kock Gr2 Ipi Tombe Challenge winner White Pearl, who won or placed in eight graded stakes races. His second crop produced Gr3 Cape Classic winner Great Plains, with Danon Platina’s third crop including Gr3 Langerman winner Absolutely Yes and Gr1 Douglas Whyte Thekwini Stakes runner-up Tina Lovelace.

The winner’s dam Rain Gal (Gerrit Schlechter) in action | Credit: Supplied

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Tim Woodruff saddled the double | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Reign Man is out of the blue-blooded Rain Gal, who carried the late Hassan Adams’ silks to six wins and who won both the 2013 Gr3 Final Fling Stakes and 2013 Listed Jockey Club Stakes. Reign Man is the third winner for his dam, with Rain Gal also dam of useful performers Gimmetherain and What A Flirt. By one of history’s greatest stallions in Galileo, the regally bred mare was produced by the Hurricane Sky mare Raining. A three-time winner herself, Raining is best known as the dam of Srikandi, winner of both the Gr1 BRC Stradbroke Handicap and Gr1 TRC Tattersall’s Tiara of 2015. Raining is out of the winning Luskin Star mare Anne Leone, a half-sister to Gr1 VRC Honda Stakes winner Pontormo. 68 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

Reign Man is bred on a similar cross to English classic winners Auguste Rodin, Saxon Warrior and Snowfall - with the trio all sired by Deep Impact and produced by Galileo mares. At the time of writing, the late Galileo is broodmare sire of more than 420 stakes winners including champion sire Night Of Thunder and promising stallions The Autumn Sun, St Mark’s Basilica and Ghaiyyath. Galileo also ranks as the damsire of such local G1 winners as Dyce, Green With Envy, Legend Of Arthur and Hero’s Honour. Rain Gal was by no means the only daughter of Galileo to shine in South Africa, with Galileo’s outstanding daughter Igugu South Africa’s Horse Of The Year Of 2011. Another Galileo daughter to win black-type races in South Africa was champion Mahbooba.

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ALL THE NOMINESS 4Racing will be celebrating the 2026 East Cape Awards on Saturday, 5 September 2026 in the Bold Silvano Room at Fairview Racecourse. This year’s judging panel comprised Henk Steenkamp, Nico Kritsiotis and Neil Pretorius and the categories and nominees are: Champion 2-Year-Old Filly • Marchland • Obsidian Star Champion 2-Year-Old Colt/Gelding • Gimmethatworldcup • Master Mtoto • U S Ranger Champion 3-Year-Old Filly • Anotherdanceforme • Danish Dynamite • Golden Palm Champion 3-Year-Old Colt/Gelding • All Systems Go • Buffalo Bill • Royal Kingdom Champion Older Filly/Mare • Enchanting Choice • Epikleros • Song Of Myself • Splicethemainbrace

Champion Older Colt/Gelding • Kingdundee • Zatara Magic • Zinovi Champion Sprinter • Anuschka’s World • Cruise Control • Kingdundee Champion Stayer • Bad Medicine • Home Reef • Spoil Yourself Champion Polytrack Filly/Mare • To Be Announced On The Evening Champion Polytrack Colt/Gelding • To Be Announced On The Evening Horse Of The Season • To be announced on the evening

The annual awards honour the outstanding equine and human performances of the season while recognising the owners, trainers, jockeys, breeders, stable staff, officials and supporters whose dedication continues to drive racing in the Eastern Cape. 78 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

Calvin Ngcobo winning on Bonne Bouche for Glen Kotzen, August 2022 | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

CALVIN NGCOBO:

THE MAKING OF A TRIER! Frustration and disappointment run deep in jockeys’ lives, even when you’re at the top of the tree. Those who lose their footing but hang on to the branches and find the strength to start climbing again, deserve respect and recognition. For some young jockeys, the journey ends after two or three years in racing’s wilderness. Most start as promising claimers, with support from trainers and a string of winners, followed by the rude awakening of life as a fully licensed jockey and the uphill battle to earn a living.

There are some who accept that a career in the saddle isn’t going to work and move on to something else. Others, like Calvin Ngcobo, simply refuse to give up. They belong to the group of riders who bite the bullet, find additional ways to use their skills and keep carving out a place for themselves in the game, wherever the opportunity takes them. 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 79

A break in positive momentum is a bane most jockeys have to live with at certain junctures, and in 2023 Calvin decided to seek a fresh start by following another injury-hampered jockey, Mpume Mjoka, to the stable of Kevin Coleman in County Tipperary, Ireland.

Calvin rode 66 winners as an apprentice before coming out of his time in 2018, a tally that suggested there was plenty more to come. Instead, he has managed just 10 winners in the eight years since. The early promise was real. As an apprentice, Calvin represented South Africa at the Prix Longines Future Stars meeting at Chantilly in 2016, where he finished second and fourth. A year later, he followed colleague Diego De Gouveia to England for a spell at the British Riding School in Newmarket. On his return to South Africa in 2018, Calvin’s career was on an upward curve in Cape Town when he suffered serious injuries to his wrists and spine, keeping him on the sidelines for more than two years.

Both are now back home – Mpume edging his way back to prominence in Cape Town and Calvin riding work every day in Gauteng. His efforts were rewarded with a winner for Mike and Mathew de Kock at the Vaal last week. Calvin believes his time in Ireland and subsequent spell in the UK made him a better rider – something readily apparent in the professional way he handled an inexperienced first-timer in that Vaal race.

Calvin on Special Envoy at the Vaal, August 2026 | Credit: JC Photos

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He explained how riding work, and race riding in Europe helped shape him before his return to South Africa earlier this year, starting with his time at Kevin Coleman’s yard: “This is a small stable with lots of attention to detail, and we got to know the runners very well. Mr Coleman gave us a few rides, and I rode a winner at both country tracks, Navan and Bellewstown. “I also had the rare opportunity to ride in a couple of races at The Curragh on big days and compete against top riders including Seamie Heffernan and Dylan Brown McMonagle. They were welcoming and helpful. Seamie and Chris Hayes walked the track with me before my first ride, and it was a privilege to compete at such a famous venue.”

He also mentioned an interesting detail about McMonagle, who is the stable jockey to Joseph O’Brien: “Dylan was a champion boxer as a youngster. He and some of the other guys do a lot of sparring to stay fit. They use a punchbag in the gym. That’s a good way of getting rid of frustration too.” Calvin was privileged to meet Aidan O’Brien in the jockeys’ room at Bellewstown, and through his friendships with Heffernan and Wayne Lordan was added to the pool of work riders rotated through morning shifts at O’Brien’s Ballydoyle and on other occasions at his son Joseph’s yard at Owning Hill. Click on the image below to read the full story…

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Sean Cormack and Sunshine Rock are led in by Bernard Kantor after winning the 2012 Laisserfaire Stakes | Credit: Supplied

CORMACK RETURNS TO SOUTH AFRICA

An interesting registration on this week’s 28 August 2026 NHA Calendar is Gr1-winning jockey Sean Cormack who returns to South Africa after eleven years in Australia. The 55-year-old Cormack was associated with the Dennis Drier yard for many years and is linked to top horses of the ilk of Beach Beauty, Legally Blonde, Captain Of All and Master Of My Fate, amongst others. It is believed that he will be returning to South Africa for family reasons and has been registered in the Cape. Every week the Sporting Post presents the National Horseracing Authority calendar. The calendar is a summary of the past week’s penalties and registrations and is an easy-read snapshot of information. Please click on the image below:

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TAB WELCOMES DE ALLENDE AS BRAND AMBASSADOR TAB, the betting brand operated by 4Racing, has announced the appointment of South African rugby star Damian de Allende as a brand ambassador, marking a new chapter in the brand’s commitment to responsible gambling and underscoring TAB’s reputation as the trusted place to bet. 86 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

The partnership will see De Allende become a prominent face of TAB, with a particular focus on responsible gambling and the importance of making informed and responsible choices. The 34-year-old Cape Town-born Centre has enjoyed an outstanding international career for South Africa, combining physical strength and skill with the discipline, resilience and professionalism required to perform at the highest level of sport. Those qualities are central to the thinking behind the partnership. For TAB, de Allende’s role will extend beyond traditional brand representation. He will become an important part of the brand’s responsible-gambling messaging and will play a central role in a range of corporate social responsibility initiatives as the partnership develops. Patrick Duff, CEO of 4Racing, said, “Damian is one of those unique and exceptional South African sportsmen who represents many of the qualities we want TAB to stand for – longevity, discipline, integrity, responsibility and making considered decisions. “This partnership is about much more than putting a well-known sporting personality behind our brand. We want Damian to become an authentic voice for responsible gambling and an important part of our broader commitment to making a positive contribution to the communities in which we operate. “TAB takes pride in its reputation as the trusted place to bet and maintaining that trust means taking our responsibility seriously. Damian is an ideal partner to help us communicate that message.”

For de Allende, whose career has seen him represent South Africa at the highest level of international rugby, the partnership provides an opportunity to use his profile to promote a message that extends beyond sport. Damian de Allende commented, “I’ve always believed that the decisions you make off the field are just as important as the ones you make on it. Discipline, staying true to yourself, and taking responsibility for your choices have been a big part of my journey in representing South Africa on the rugby field. That’s why I’m proud to partner with TAB. Responsible gambling is about making informed decisions and knowing your limits – values that matter to me, both as a player and as a person. I’m looking forward to using my platform to help promote that message and support TAB’s goal of being the trusted place to bet.” The partnership will also see de Allende involved in TAB’s wider corporate social responsibility programme, with further initiatives to be announced in the coming months. TAB believes that responsible gambling should be central to the way a modern betting business engages with its customers and the wider community. The partnership with de Allende is intended to give that commitment a stronger public voice, while helping position TAB as a responsible and trusted participant in South Africa’s betting industry. •

Media release by 4Racing on Monday, 31 August 2026.

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T WO Y E A R OLD SALE

S AV E THE DAT E 24.10.26

24 OCTOBER 2026 | HOLLYWOODBETS DURBANVILLE For sale-related queries, please contact Vicky Minott - vicky@racecoast.co.za

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Autumn Glow – supreme Credit: Magic Millions

VIA AFRICA’S DAUGHTER IS

AUSSIE RACEHORSE OF THE YEAR Superstar mare Autumn Glow, a daughter of triple Gr-winning South African race mare Via Africa (Var), has taken another leap towards her imminent champion status after being crowned Australian Racehorse of the Year for the 2025-2026 racing season. Racenet.com reports that the Chris Wallertrained darling of the Australian turf received the gong at racing’s glitzy Night of Champions awards evening held in the Winx Stand at Royal Randwick last Thursday night. Autumn Glow, who captured the imagination of the racing public winning her first 11 race starts, including three at Group 1 level as well as the A$10m Golden Eagle, downed an all-star cast of the sport’s elite to be bestowed the grand award. In a Horse of the Year race to savour, Autumn Glow won through with 110 votes ahead of

Caulfield-Melbourne Cup hero Half Yours on 69 votes while Randwick Guineas-Doncaster heroine Sheza Alibi finished with 67 votes. The late Andre Hauptfleisch bred and raced Autumn Glow’s dam Via Africa in partnership with Albert Boshoff. A daughter of VAR, she was crowned SA Champion Sprinter in 2013, and her 10 wins here in the hands of Duncan Howells included the Gr1 Cape Flying Championship and Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint twice. 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 89

She was sold to Australia for stud purposes, and the outstanding Autumn Glow is one of two Gr1 winners produced by her. The other is exciting young sire, Golden Rose winner in Congo. Via Africa’s third runner is the six-time winner in Hong Kong, Pleasant Endeavor. Autumn Glow won last Saturday’s Gr1 Winx Stakes to make it 12 wins from her 13 starts, The mighty Via Sistina, which was retired after going back-to-back in last year’s Cox Plate, finished with 66 votes in her bid for consecutive Horse of the Year honours, while Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner Sir Delius rounded out the fabulous field of five with 65 votes. Racing’s Night of Champions belonged to Waller and his supreme team of racetrack stars with Autumn Boy taking out the Australian Champion 3YO Colt/Gelding while prolific Group 1 winner Joliestar claimed the Champion Sprinter Title for the most recent racing season. Autumn Glow bolstered her sweep of awards even further by taking out the coveted Champion Middle Distance category on the strength of her slashing wins in the George Ryder Stakes, Verry Elleegant Stakes and A$10m Golden Eagle. Born at the famed Kelly family’s Newhaven Park at Boorowa, Autumn Glow was sold through the Newhaven draft to Silverdale Farm and Brian McGuire’s Shrone Bloodstock for A$600,000 at the 2022 Magic Millions Gold Coast National Weanling Sale. Autumn Glow is a daughter of the triple Group One winning South African race mare Via Africa (Var). She is one of two Group One winners produced by Via Africa. The other is exciting young sire, Golden Rose winner In the Congo. Champion 2YO honours went the way of Golden Slipper winner Guest House with 191 votes while Sheza Alibi’s stunning wins in the Randwick Guineas and Doncaster Mile ensured she was awarded the Champion Three-Year-Old Filly title. 90 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

The incredibly popular Half Yours, winner of the Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup for Tony and Calvin McEvoy, successfully claimed the Champion Stayer title, blitzing his competition with a landslide outcome in the voting amassing 195 votes over Aeliana on an impressive 122 votes. In the Champion Jumps horse (Victorian voters only), Stern Idol’s connections were called to the stage for a third time in four years, a fitting end to a remarkable career, with the judges garnering 45 votes for Stern Idol over Instigator on 18 votes and Mr Waterville on 10 votes. Waller’s vice-like grip on the Champion Group 1 Trainer award continued when claiming the gong with a record-setting 22 Group 1 triumphs during the season. The Waller stables galaxy of stars including gallopers the calibre of Autumn Glow, Via Sistina, Beiwacht, Joliestar, Autumn Boy and Aeliana. Not surprisingly, the world’s best jockey James McDonald took out the Champion Group 1 Jockey Award for a sixth straight year courtesy of his 17 Group 1 wins in the saddle. Champion Sire of the Year was awarded to the late Snitzel whose progeny’s stakes earnings totalled $A26,030,662 for the season. Australian Horse Of The Year Awards: • Champion 2YO: Guest House • Champion 3YO Filly: Sheza Alibi • Champion 3YO Colt/Gelding: Autumn Boy • Champion Sprinter: Joliestar • Champion Middle Distance: Autumn Glow • Champion Stayer: Half Yours • Champion Jumper: Stern Idol • Bart Cummings Award Group 1 Trainer of the Year: Chris Waller • Group 1 Jockey of the Year: James McDonald • Champion Sire of the Year: Snitzel

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ZAVATERI LOSES A SHOE

BUT PROVES HIS CLASS! v

The rain finally arrived at Goodwood over the weekend, with connections of the majority of runners for the Group 2 Virgin Bet Celebration Mile hoping it would not be too severe.

2026 | 93 Zavateri (Charles Bishop) delivers an impressive win2| SEPTEMBER Credit: Goodwood Racecourse

Eve Johnson Houghton, trainer of the Group 1 winning three-year-old and race favourite, Zavateri spent all day worrying whether her stable star would cope with the soft ground and would show everyone he still retained his old ability. The gods were on her side as despite the weather and the fact that Zavateri lost his offfore shoe on the way to the start, he proved his class with an authoritative victory, seeing off last year’s Sussex Stakes winner Qirat for his first success of the year. “I’m thrilled, but there’s a lot of relief too,” Johnson Houghton said. “I’m so thrilled he’s shown everyone how good he is, because I knew he was, but people started to doubt him.” “We knew the ground was turning soft, but we thought if we can’t run on it now, he’s not going to go on it in two months, so let’s just see. I was so sick right up until they opened the stalls, but then I saw he seemed to quite like the ground, and I was happy as Larry. He’s tough, he loves racing, and he’ll find a gap when he needs to.” A gap was needed for Zavateri this time, with jockey Charlie Bishop searching for room after following the pace-setting Qirat up the rail. A furlong and a half from home, Bishop found the space he needed and Zavateri surged clear of his opposition to win by three and a half lengths. “It was much deserved,” Bishop said about a three-year-old who had finished fifth in two Group 1s this summer. “It shows how good the likes of Notable Speech and Bow Echo really are, because he didn’t have many excuses when he met them this year. There’s 94 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

been little bits that could’ve gone better, but today he’s kicked a decent Group 2 field into touch.” There is no doubt what comes next for Zavateri, with both trainer and jockey adamant the next stop will be the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes on British Champions Day in October. Bishop is also mindful that his next start will be his last. “He’s going to go back to Group 1 company for the QEII and that’ll be his final start, as he’s off to stud at the end of the year,” the jockey said. “We’ll enjoy him while we have him – I’m definitely enjoying today.” Also, during the week sad news came from Clouston stables in Ireland. The great steeplechaser Galopin Des Champs has officially been retired after a stunning career which returned 12 Group 1s including backto-back Cheltenham Gold Cups in 2023 and 2024. When asked if Galopin Des Champs was the best he has ever trained, champion trainer Willie Mullins said, with a little reluctance: “He has to be, yeah. It’s going to be hard to beat his record; this is the best chaser I’ve trained, and Hurricane Fly is the best hurdler.” It was the first time he had gone that far, and Mullins chose his words carefully. “I don’t know if people realise how long it takes to make a horse like this, a three-mile chaser. It is the pinnacle of our game. It takes ages.”

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HONG KONG SADDLES UP v

FOR SEASON OPENER

96opening | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 The ceremony will take place in Sha Tin’s Parade Ring | Credit: HKJC

The 2026/27 Season Opening race meeting will be held at Sha Tin Racecourse this Sunday, 06 September.

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As the city saddles up for the new season, The Hong Kong Jockey Club looks forward to hosting locals and tourists for a spectacular day of racing – featuring the return of champion racehorse Ka Ying Rising – as well as live entertainment and special offers. Aaron Kwok to give first-ever live performance of new HKJC Annual Theme Song The opening ceremony will take place in Sha Tin’s Parade Ring. Following the traditional eyedotting ceremony for the ceremonial lions, the officiating guests will perform the gong-striking ceremony. All jockeys will be in attendance to wish fans the very best for the coming season. The Club’s Year of the Horse Ambassador, Aaron Kwok, will then deliver the first-ever live performance of the new Hong Kong Jockey Club Annual Theme Song, “GO GO GO”, inspiring everyone to charge towards their goals with determination.

The HK$4.2 million Gr3 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m) is the feature race, staged as Race 3, and is headlined by the return of Ka Ying Rising, the World’s Best Racehorse# and reigning Hong Kong Horse of the Year, who will attempt to extend his record streak to 21 consecutive victories. A full programme of entertainment and attractions The 10-race Season Opening will feature an array of exciting off-track activities throughout the day. Highlights include: 2026/27 Racing Calendar giveaway • All entrants to Sha Tin and Happy Valley Racecourses will receive a designated 2026/27 Racing Calendar. • Visitors can also strike commemorative gongs at designated locations and sign up to collect stamps for a chance to receive a designated gift.

Champion Ka Ying Rising bids for recordextending 21st consecutive victory in HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup

98 | Ka 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 Champion Ying Rising bids for record-extending 21st consecutive victory in HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup | Credit: HKJC

Visitors can strike commemorative gongs at designated locations | Credit: HKJC

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Newly launched Premium Year of the Horse Cheering Pack • With the Premium Year of the Horse Cheering Pack, racegoers can enjoy an exclusive race-day experience and a collection of gifts, including a Special Edition Racecourse Octopus Card, an all-new Love Racing pin, and a cheering calendar for stamp collection to redeem extra rewards. Exclusive collectibles from Gift at Races • Gift at Races will launch a range of exclusive collectibles, including a 999.9 Gold Note featuring Ka Ying Rising and Romantic Warrior in collaboration with Chow Tai Fook, a Horse of the Year 40cm Sitting Horse Plush, and a selection of Ka Ying Rising-themed merchandise. • To celebrate the Season Opening, the Gift at Races stores in Sha Tin Racecourse will also introduce limitedtime offers on selected new products.

Sha Tin Racecourse Delights: Season Opening Lucky Draw •

Racegoers will have the chance to receive designated WINS rewards, with a total of up to 38 million WINS available at the Season Opening.

Special culinary offerings A variety of themed delights will be available at the Public Betting Hall Trackside Kiosk. Attention all local fans! The free-to-enter Hollywoodbets Punters’ Challenge is available on all Hong Kong racemeetings and this week sees the launch of an exciting new option. • •

From 31 August 2026 until Hollywoodbets decides to stop or change it. Applies only to the Weekly Points and Most Winners leaderboards on the Punters Challenge website.

The 2026/27 Season Opening race meeting will be held at Sha Tin | Credit: HKJC

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•

To qualify for prizes, you must bet at least R150 in total during the week. There is no free-to-play option. Even if you finish in first position but have not taken a bet of R150 or more across the week, there will be no prize payout The competition week runs from Monday to Sunday.

Leaderboard Prizes Each leaderboard (Most Points and Most Winners) has a R10 000 prize pool shared among the top 40 qualifying players: • 1st: R4 000 • 2nd: R1 500 • 3rd: R700 • 4th: R350 • 5th to 10th: R200 each • 11th to 40th: R75 each

To qualify, you must: o Make selections for at least 2 weekday meetings (Mon-Fri), King of the Week Prize and • A separate R10 000 prize pool is o Make selections for all weekend shared by punter(s) who correctly race meetings (including special tip more than 40% of the week’s editions), and winners. o Meet the R150 betting requirement.

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SOCCER 13 PUNTER BANKS R2 745 106 FOR R8 OUTLAY A thrilled Soccer 13 player won R2 745 106 for an R8 outlay on Race Coast Tote for last Thursday’s fixtures! 102 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026

See the details below of the payment Race Coast Tote made to the customer who spent R8 to win R2 745 106:

The unit of betting is R2 and the customer made one selection in 11 matches, went with option 2 and 3 in match 6, and option 1 and 3 in match 13. That meant that the main payout of R2 715 948 increased with a couple of consolation payouts. That’s a win to brag about! 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 103

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results up to: 2026-09-02

TRAINERS Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Other Places

Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

Mr S J Snaith

18.8

53.1

812,556

1,236,446

Mr A C Greeff

23.8

52.4

904,875

1,220,679

Mr A P Peter

25.5

55.3

734,469

985,103

Mr D G Smith

12.0

47.0

565,844

924,208

Candice Bass

16.3

42.9

558,125

803,819

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

JOCKEYS Name

Runs

Other Places

Mr K de Melo

28.4

47.7

1,802,031

2,203,438

Mr Serino Moodley

19.4

55.2

1,045,000

1,558,579

Mr G J Lerena

22.4

46.6

927,438

1,241,413

Mr K Matsunyane

17.6

51.4

867,469

1,301,833

Mr C J Habib

9.1

54.5

543,875

1,203,349

BREEDERS Name

Runrs Runs

AEPR

B.T. B.T. Total Wnrs/ Wnrs Wins Rnrs% Places Winrs Wins Stakes (R)

Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein

136

164

15,634

13.2

2,126,222

Varsfontein Stud

21,633

23.4

1,665,754

Ridgemont Highlands

18,061

19.0

1,137,839

Maine Chance Farms (Pty) Ltd

18,952

19.6

871,776

Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)

13,182

9.5

830,453

Runrs Runs

AEPR

B.T. B.T. Total Wnrs/ Wnrs Wins Rnrs% Places Winrs Wins Stakes (R)

SIRES Name Vercingetorix

26,621

25.0

1,916,705

Rafeef (AUS)

20,887

21.5

1,650,079

Master Of My Fate

19,887

18.8

1,591,000

Gimmethegreenlight (AUS)

17,263

17.3

1,398,279

Querari (GER)

14,488

11.0

1,057,659

See all the detailed standings - Click here 106 | 2 SEPTEMBER 2026