SP Sprint - Wednesday 22 May 2024

Winning Form-sponsored jockey Richard Fourie chats to GallopTV’s Warren Lenferna after his milestone 300th season winner at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday, 19 May. Candiese Lenferna took the photograph.

KELLY’S HEROES!

East Cape trainer Kelly Mitchley celebrated her 100th career winner at Fairview on Friday 17 May 2024. Here Launch Code (Smanga

Khumalo) is led in by Kelly and partner, Kyle Paddock.

Credit: Pauline Herman

SATURDAY- R3 MILLION

Top class Green With Envy (Craig Zackey) beats Sandringham Summit (Gavin Lerena) in the WSB Gr2 Guineas | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

The first two Grade 1 contests of the 2024 SA Champions Season will be run at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Saturday, with a projected R3 million Pick 6 pool on the cards!

Recent Gr2 World Sports Betting Guineas winner and ruling ante-post favourite for the R5-million Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July, Green With Envy heads the list of nine high class acceptors for the Gr1 Daily News 2000.

Dean Kannemeyer’s colt has impressed with every race as he has matured, winning the Gr1 Splashout Cape Derby and showing a tremendous turn of foot to collar star performer Sandringham Summit in the Gr2 WSB Guineas, a distance many thought was now on the sharp side for the Derby winner.

Seven of the 9 runners are rated 109 and better, an indication of the class of opposition Green With Envy will face in the Daily News 2000 at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Saturday. Pure Predator may lead the charge for the minor placings ahead of William Iron Arm, who comes with a big reputation.

The Gr1 Tabgold Woolavington 2000 is open to fillies and mares of all ages and the Andre

Nel-trained Saartjie staked her claim with an emphatic victory in the Listed KRA East Coast Cup, coming from almost last to run down Brett Crawford’s filly Future Girl in the last few strides.

Nel’s filly faces 10 rivals in this year’s renewal of the Tabgold Woolavington and also holds an entry in the Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July.

Leading the three-year-old entry is recent Gr2 SA Oaks winner Frances Ethel. Second over 1400m on debut, she has racked up four straight wins including The Oaks Trial and The Oaks for the Brett Crawford racing team.

Barry Irwin, astute principal of Team Valor, has bought into the filly and his judgement is rarely off the mark.

A Pick 6 carryover of R1 million is likely to result in a R3 million pool - Leg 1 is Race 4 which is off at 13h20.

DAILY NEWS –A DYNASTY OF STALLIONS

Since its inception in 1982, the Daily News 2000 has invariably drawn the cream of every classic generation. Contested at Hollywood Greyville, the race boasts an honour roll worthy of its Gr1 status, with many Daily News winners eventually joining our stallions ranks.

The very first running of the 2000m event was won by Prince Florimund, a son of the stoutlybred Dowdstown Charley.

Trained by David Payne, he put together a three-year-old winter campaign worthy of championship honours, his facile victory in the Daily News 2000 coming after a three-length

defeat of Wolf Power the Gr1 SA Guineas. In a rousing finale to the season, he again thumped the famed grey in the Gr1 Clairwood Winter Handicap and was voted Horse of the Year and Champion Three-year-old.

Daily News winner Vercingetorix – international campaigner and top notch Maine Chance sire today | Credit: Gold Circle

Prince Florimund – first ever Daily News winner | Credit: Gold Circle

He added the Gr1 Champion Stakes in his sole outing as a four-year-old, whereafter he was sent to the States and the California stables of the legendary trainer Charlie Whittingham, to be exact. Successful in the Gr3 San Gabriel Handicap at Santa Anita, his finest effort was in defeat when he tested the legendary gelding John Henry in Hollywood Park’s Gr2 American Handicap.

Prince Florimund returned to South Africa for stallion duties, but being out of a mare by stamina influence St Cuthbert, was arguably too stout for this country. He was never a commercial success, notwithstanding the fact that his best runner was the Gr3 winning sprinter Coal. Ironically, he did have the last laugh, as the broodmare sire of one of the greatest gallopers of modern times, the mighty Pocket Power, and of course, his Gr1 winning full sister River Jetez.

A Daily News 2000 winner who did enjoy a fruitful, if all too brief stud career, was the handsome Bush Telegraph, who claimed the race in 1987 for the powerful partnership of Graham Beck and Laurie Jaffee. Bush Telegraph went on to rewrite the record books when he became the first three-year-old in 14 years to win the Gr1 Rothmans July, and in a new record time to boot.

Sadly, his stud career at Highlands lasted just five seasons, his death at age ten robbing the industry of a potentially great stallion, considering he sired Gr1 winners Crimson Waves, Ashtontown, and of course the great London News, who emulated his sire in the 1996 Daily News 2000.

Twice Horse of the Year and Champion Threeyear-old, London News followed in his sire’s footsteps by winning the centenary renewal of the Gr1 Rothmans July and he took the Jaffees and trainer Alec Laird on a journey of a lifetime when landing Hong Kong’s prized Gr1 Queen Elizabeth II Cup just nine months later.

Although he never managed to replicate his own brilliance at stud, he proved himself a

more than average stallion, siring the Gr2 winner Sambuca, Mercury Chief, Oracle News and Sally Bowles. He also features as the broodmare sire of Gr1 Gold Challenge hero Undercover Agent.

Blue-blooded Dancing Duel claimed the Gr1 SA Guineas/Daily News 2000/Rothmans July treble in 1993 and was widely expected to become a worthy successor to his revered sire Dancing Champ when he retired to stud. Out of Broodmare of the Year Mashka, he was, after all, a full-brother to the seven-time Gr1 winner and dual champion mare Olympic Duel.

He too, never reached the same heights as a stallion, siring just a quartet of stakes winners, the best of which Gr3 winner Dancette, who subsequently became the dam of King’s Cup winner Social Order.

Since the start of the new millennium, 14 Daily News 2000 winners have joined the stallion ranks, of which four became Gr1 sires.

Top honours must go to Dynasty, a fluent twolength winner of the 2003 race for Fieldspring Racing and trainer Dean Kannemeyer.

One of three Horse of the Year recipients sired by the iconic Fort Wood, he has proven himself one of the pre-eminent classic sires of the modern era, to the extent that he was the country’s second leading sire in 2013 and 2014.

Like his illustrious father, he too sired three Horse of the Year winners, amongst which the

Jackson – 2012 Daily News winning son of Dynasty | Credit: Gold Circle

Daily News 2000 winners Irish Flame (2010) and Legislate (2014). The pair were split by Gr1 winning son Jackson, who cruised home in 2012. Add to that runner-up efforts from Run For It (2011) and It’s My Turn (2016), and a third by Horizon (2017), and it would be safe to say that Dynasty has left an indelible mark on the Daily News 2000.

Needless to say, his Daily News 2000 winners all retired to stud and have enjoyed varying degrees of success.

It is no secret that Legislate’s fertility issues account for his paucity of runners, yet he has made an impact with the likes of Hoedspruit (Gr2 Premier Trophy), Airways Law (Gr3 Cup Trial) and Zimbaba (Gr3 Flamboyant Stakes).

Jackson, who retired to birthplace Highlands as a triple Gr1 winner, is proof that notwithstanding impeccable credentials, stallion success is not a given. Despite having had access to the high quality Highlands broodmare band, his returns have been disappointing, the best of his seven stakes winners to date being the Gr1-placed, Gr3 winning filly Pretty Young Thing.

Sadly, the vagaries of horse breeding are best illustrated by subsequent SA Horse Of The Year Irish Flame, who failed to cut the mustard, to the extent that he did not sire a stakes winner.

Elusive Fort, who came out tops in a one-three Fort Wood finish in 2006 (future Durban July hero Hunting Tower ran a close-up third), has enjoyed plenty of success as a stallion.

Given that he has enjoyed less support than Dynasty, both in term of quantity and quality of mares, he has sired Gr1 winners of the ilk of Durban July winner and 2021 Daily News third Kommetdieding, Siren’s Call, Lauderdale and Out Of Your League.

Silvano’s son Vercingetorix enjoyed a brief, but spectacular campaign on local soil. Unraced at two, he was unbeaten in four starts at three, the highlights of which was his defeat of dual classic winner Capetown Noir, first in the Gr2 KRA Guineas and again in the Daily News 2000. Voted the Equus Champion Three-yearold colt, he went on to win the Gr1 Jebel Hatta in Dubai and also ran third in the Gr1 Audemars Piquet Queen Elizabeth II Cup in Hong.

Returned to South Africa to stand alongside his phenomenal sire at Maine Chance Farms, the imposing bay quickly established himself amongst the country’s elite stallions and ironically, was denied a first General Sires championship in 2021 by none other than his own sire!

To date, he has sired champions Cousin Casey, Mrs Geriatrix and Nebraas, as well as the Gr1 winners Vernichey, Ambiorix, Chansonette, Pomp And Power, Astrix and ill-fated Alesian Chief.

For interest sake, let’s take a brief look at those Daily News 2000 winners who failed to reach similar heights in the breeding shed.

Badger’s Coast won the very first Daily News 2000 of the new millennium and his earlier defeat of dual Durban July winner El Picha in the Gr1 J&B Met, made him a worthy recipient of the Champion Three-year-old title. A Badger Land half-brother to Horse of the Year Surfing Home, he sadly died after covering no more than a handful of mares in his very first season at stud.

Paternal half-brother Badger’s Drift carried all before him a year later by completing the Gr1 SA Classic/SA Derby/Daily News 2000. Out of Broodmare of the Year On The Roof, his

Elusive Fort – won the Daily News in 2006 and a very successful sire today | Credit: Supplied

female line was that of breed-shaper Blushing Groom, yet he failed to pass on his brilliance in his second career. The sire of just five stakes winners, his claim to fame as a stallion is Ivory Trail, who burst on the scene late to deny the mighty Pocket Power in the 2009 Gr1 Champions Cup at Clairwood, whilst shattering the 35-year-old course record set by Sabre way back in the seventies.

Russian Sage joined Dynasty and ill-fated Rabiya as Fieldspring Racing’s third Daily News 2000 winner in 2008 and was named the Champion Three-year-old of his generation. He retired to the Gary Player Stud but proved a huge disappointment, his sole stakes winner being the Gr2 Drill Hall Stakes winner Perovskia. In fact, he eventually ended up being gelded and became a showjumper.

For fear of sounding churlish, the course of history has probably impacted on the stud careers of both The Apache and Rabada.

A Scott Bros-bred champion and winner of the 2011 Daily News 2000, The Apache will always be remembered for his gut-wrenching defeat in the fabled Gr1 Arlington Million, where he had crossed the line first, only to be disqualified by the stewards.

The son of Mogok returned to stand at his birthplace, but despite his outstanding international race record, he also won at Gr2 level in Dubai and finished second in the Gr1 Dubai Duty Free, he enjoyed no more than limited support from breeders and with the demise of the renowned Nottingham Road stud farm, he has virtually faded into obscurity.

To date, he counts the stakes-placed duo of Flashy Apache and Apache Fighter amongst his best runners.

The jury is still out on Rabada, who prevailed in the 2016 Daily News 2000 under a tactical ride from Anton Marcus.

Also a juvenile Gr1 winner of the Premiers Champion Stakes, he received less than 30 mares in his first season at Summerhill Stud and by the time the farm changed hands, had just covered a slightly increased second book of mares.

Rabada now stands at Bloomhill Stud near Wartburg, and from those initial two small crops, he has sired stakes-placed Zatara Magic and Ermelo, as well as the talented four-time winner Addabar.

We are yet to see in action the progeny of Surcharge, Hawwaam and Got The Greenlight, the most recent Daily News 2000 winners to enter stud.

Surcharge, who broke through at Gr1 level in the 2018 running, was renamed Yulong Prince and exported to Australia where he tasted further Gr1 glory before his retirement to stud.

His first crop are yearlings, as are those of

Rabada- 2016 winner under a brilliant tactical ride by Anton Marcus | Credit: Gold Circle

Surcharge – raced in Australia as Yulong Prince| Credit: Gold Circle

Hawwaam, who completed a Gr1 hattrick with a stylish victory in the 2019 Daily News 2000. He joined Vercingetorix as Silvano’s second Daily News 2000 winner, with gelded stable companion Safe Passage making it a treble two years later, this at the expense of Pomp And Power, a son of Vercingetorix.

Champion Two and Three-year-old Got The Greenlight counts the 2020 Daily News 2000 amongst an impressive five Gr1 victories and retired to Camargue Stud as the first Gr1 winning son of champion Gimmethegreenlight. Sadly, his maiden covering season was marked by fertility issues and we do hope that his stallion career gathers momentum.

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Focusing on Saturday’s nine-strong field, both Gimmethegreenlight and Vercingetorix will be represented by two runners apiece. Current favourite is the former’s Gr1 Cape Derby winner Green With Envy, who recently completed a hat-trick of stakes wins in the Gr2 World Sports Betting Guineas.

Vercingetorix will rely on Hotarubi, runner-up in both the Gr2 Gauteng Guineas and Gr2 Colorado King Stakes, and of unexposed Gr3 Politician Stakes second The Grey King.

Dynasty’s name too, pops up amongst the runners as the damsire of Gr3 Byerley Turk winner Mid Winter Wind.

WOOLAVINGTON 2000 – AN IMPRESSIVE FIELD

Frances Ethel scores an emphatic SA Oaks win under Kabelo Matsunyane | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

The final field for Saturday’s Tabgold Gr1 Woolavington 2000 was declared on Tuesday and the 2024 renewal hosts another vintage renewal of a race with an impressive honour roll.

Brett Crawford’s Gr2 SA Oaks winner Frances Ethel heads an eleven horse line-up, for the first

Grade 1 contest of the 2024 SA Champions Season.

Among past champions to have won this race are Oh Susanna, Igugu, Sun Classique, Summer Pudding, Smart Call, War Of Athena, Icy Air, In The Fast Lane and Rain In Holland, to name but a few.

But how have Woolavington 2000 winners fared at stud?

Icy Air, who won the race in 2003 when it was run as a Gr2 contest, enjoyed plenty of success in the paddock and is without doubt one of the most successful broodmares to have emerged from the Woolavington 2000.

The daughter of Jallad produced nine winners, including Russet Air, the Equus Champion Sprinter of 2019-2020. Winner of both the

2019 Gr2 Cape Merchants and 2020 Gr1 Cape Flying Championship, Russet Air was one of two graded stakes winners for his dam, with Icy Air also dam of Gr2 Premier Trophy winner Icy Trail.

Icy Air’s daughters have also made their mark at stud, with her Gr2 SA Fillies Nursery placed daughter Icy Winter Air dam of Gr1 World Sports Betting Cape Fillies Guineas/Gr1 Cartier Paddock Stakes winner Make It Snappy (Dynasty).

Another hugely successful broodmare to win the Woolavington was Promisefromyheart (Elliodor).

Victorious in 2004, champion Promisefrommyheart not only produced dual Gr2 winner and successful sire Master Of My Fate (Jet Master), but is also the dam of the stakes winning dam of South African Triple Crown winner and sire Malmoos (Captain Al).

Fidelity, Promisefrommyheart’s winning daughter, produced a pair of graded stakes winners in the form of Due Diligence (Gr3 Starling Stakes) and Ghaalla (Gr3 Fillies Mile), respectively.

Few fillies retired to stud in South Africa recently with stronger credentials than did 2016 Woolavington winner Bela-Bela. A champion daughter of Dynasty and Mystic Spring, Bela-Bela was quick to make her mark with her very first foal being Gr2 Western Cape Fillies Championship queen Ciao Bella (Gimmethegreenlight).

In The Fast Lane (Jet Master), a half-sister to five stakes winners, produced three winners, headed by speedy Ridgemont sire Real Gone Kid (Snitzel) and the latter’s full-sister Stiptelik, who finished second, behind Horse Of The Year Princess Calla, in the 2023 Gr2 Cartier Sceptre Stakes. In The Fast Lane also had success overseas, with her daughter Girl Racer (No Nay Never) winning at Wolverhampton in 2023.

Two other Woolavington winners to have thrown winners overseas were Do You Remember (Silvano) and Irridescence (Caesour).

Do You Remember is the dam of US stakes winner and Gr1 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup third Burning Ambition (Uncle Mo), and Irridescence threw Gr3 Affirmed Stakes/Gr3 Oaklawn Mile Stakes winner Rock Hopper (Declaration Of War).

The 2012 Woolavington winner Viva Maria, sired like In The Fast Lane, by Jet Master, has come up with four winners including 2020 Gr3 Campanajo 2200 winner Sovereign Spirit (third in the 2021 Gr1 Cape Town Met), and Silver Maria. The latter finished third in the Gr2 Track And Ball Oaks and Listed KRA East Coast Cup.

Igugu, one of the best fillies ever to win the Woolavington 2000, had just two registered foals before her untimely death, headed by Listed Fred Archer Stakes runner up El Misk (Dansili).

While Cherry On The Cake (Strike Smartly) ran last behind Igugu in the 2011 Woolavington 2000, she made her mark at stud as the dam of Gr1 Woolavington 2000 winner and Horse Of The Year Summer Pudding.

Cherry On The Cake was not the only runner beaten in the Woolavington to make her mark at stud, with the likes of Mother Russia, River

Daughter of Jallad, Icy Air has produced nine winners | Credit: Supplied

Woolavington 2000 winner Do You Remember has produced winners overseas | Credit: Supplied

Jetez, Festive Occasion, Shadow Dancing, and Sabina Park all producing a Grade One winner at stud.

Sally Bowles, last in the 2007 Gr1 Woolavington 2000, is the dam of a pair of US graded stakes winners in the form of Consumer Credit and Lady Radler, respectively.

With the likes of Summer Pudding (Silvano), War Of Athena (Act Of War) and Rain In Holland (Duke Of Marmalade) yet to be represented by offspring on the racecourse, the list of high-class broodmares to have won the Woolavington 2000 is likely to expand in years to come.

THE KING SEEKS A TOUCH OF GOLD

The highest rated three-time winning 4yo in South Africa, the ever-consistent Dave The King put it all together with a convincing victory in a R150 000 1500m Pinnacle Stakes at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday.

Running off a rating of 126, the versatile Graduation Plate winning son of Ascot kingpin Global View (Galileo) ran a perfect prep for the Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge on 8 June, but then it’s all up in the air whether he actually goes for the Hollywoodbets Durban July.

It’s not rocket science that he probably doesn’t see out a true-run 2200m, and Sunday’s winning rider Craig Zackey confirmed that a mile is his game. Starting an 18-10 favourite in a race that looked a giveaway for him, Dave The King slipped into

the lead under the in-form Craig Zackey after Itsrainingwilliam had done the donkey work and drew away at the 250m to beat The Shepherd (9-2) by 3 lengths in a time of 88,75 secs.

Dual Highveld Feature Season Award winner Royal Victory (9-2), the second of the Hollywoodbets Durban July entries to run on the day, arrived on the scene too late in third, a further half-length back, with the pacemaker Itsrainingwilliam (6-1) plodding into fourth, and clearly in need of it.

The third of the Hollywoodbets Durban July entries to make an appearance on the afternoon, Mike de Kock’s Shoemaker made little impact, running a 4,70 length fifth.

A cracking performance from Dave The King (Craig Zackey) Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Raced by Larry Nestadt, Gary Player and Ralphs Racing (Pty) Ltd (Nom: Miss K Ralphs), the Gary Player Stud bred Dave The King is a son of Global View out of the one-time winning Jet Master mare, Touche.

A R175 000 Cape Premier Yearling Sale purchase, Dave The King started his career

with Vaughan Marshall in the Cape, before transferring to Mike de Kock.

A winner of 4 races with 8 places from 19 starts for stakes of R2 296 550, Dave The King is a victim of his own lionhearted nature and puts in cracking performances over any trip. He’d probably place in the Gold Cup!

“Pinhooking is a term that describes the practice of buying a horse at one stage of development and selling them at the next.”

• Purchase a yearling at the Cape Racing Sales Winter Yearling Sale 2024

• Payment due only after selling the yearling at the Cape Racing Sales Breeze Up in October 2024

• Summary of costs for the scheme:

Purchase Costs

- CRS Yearling Sale – 2% Buyers Commission - R5000 CRS Bonus Initiative levy

Sales Costs

- Free entry onto CRS Breeze Up sale

- 5% Vendor Commission

- 3% Pinhook Premium

Potential Buy Back Costs

- 2% Buyer Commission

- R5000 CRS Initiative Levy

one stripe

WINNER OF THE CAPE OF GOOD HOPE NURSERY (GR3)

WINNER OF THE WINTER NURSERY (GR3)

PAID R100 000 - PINHOOKED AND SOLD FOR R1 400 000

www.caperacingsales.co.za | For further information or to apply for the scheme contactJustinVermaak – justin@caperacing.co.za

SUPER SIX FROM WILGERBOSDRIFT

Situated between craggy mountains near Piketberg, Wilgerbosdrift continues to produce top-notch, rugged thoroughbreds. The stud sends half a dozen yearlings to market on the 06 June at the Cape Racing Winter Yearling Sale, taking place at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.

Lot 15 – First up is City of Love, a Rafeef colt out of Isle de France. This is a venerable Wilgerbosdrift / Mauritzfontein family as the second dam is SA Oaks victress, Ilha Bela and third dam, Ilha da Vitoria was South Africa’s HOTY in 2005/6. Rafeef, of course, was SA’s leading first season sire in 2020/21, so potential buyers will be beating a path to inspect Stable B10.

Lot 36 is a bay Fire Away colt out of Loupe named Tommy Atkins. The well-performed dam has already thrown Black Type performers, Opera Glass (9 wins) Petra (5 wins), and Eternity Ring (4 wins).

Lot 46, a mating to Noor has resulted in a bay colt called, Matroosberg. What a Winter produces the goods each year – his running total is now 334 winners from 518 representatives including 24 Stakes Winners. The second dam is Jet Master mare, Express Queen who threw 7 x winner, Platinum Class and Mauritian Champion Stayer of 2017/18, Our Emperor.

Lot 49 is a filly, Without Hesitation, a first foal out of Passion Peach and by the American stallion, Fire Away. There’s plenty of Black-Type going back a couple of generations – African Appeal, Mary Lou, and Brave Mary feature under third dam, Kentucky Lass.

Lot 55 – another filly, the grey Proxima by Rafeef ex Punta Chica. The female side has strong Argentinian links through second dam Printemps.

Lot 105, Safari Camp by Rafeef ex Chitengo comes towards the end of the sale and is worth waiting for given the tempting blend of speed and stamina in the pedigree.

Despite his accomplishments over the short cuts, Gr1 Computaform Sprint hero, Rafeef is proving a versatile influence over a wide range of distances, while Chitengo, second dam Gorongosa, and Shangani were all “lang-asem” marathon runners.

The Pinhook incentive scheme, introduced in 2023, will again be a feature of this sale.

The incentive allows speculators to make purchases at CRWYS while only having to pay for the stock once selling at the Ready to Run Sale in October.

Note too, that all graduates qualify for the CRS Juvenile bonus, which pays R100,000 to the winning connections.

LITTLE BALLERINA

- CRS Cape Slipper (NBT)

- Wilgerbosdrift SA Fillies Nursery (Gr2)

- Juvenile Plate (Fillies)

Talk to the master

- Maiden Juvenile Plate

- Juvenile Plate

prom queen

- Maiden Juvenile Plate (Fillies)

makazole

- Maiden Juvenile Plate

African prince

- Juvenile Plate

CAPE RACING SALES JUVENILE BONUS

R100 000 FOR THE FIRST 40 CRS GRADUATE WINNERS (R75 000 OWNER & R25 000 VENDOR) www.caperacingsales.co.za

Master Casper

- Maiden Plate

great plains

- Juvenile Plate

- Juvenile Plate buzz bomb

- Maiden Plate

The Mask

- Maiden Plate

Sorceress supreme

- Maiden Juvenile Plate (Fillies)

commanding

- Maiden Juvenile Plate

Thunderstruck (Piere

red cap) ranges up outside of Ziyasha and Rulership, before going away to win narrowly |

CHAMPION SON OF RAFEEF RETIRES

Sean Tarry’s dual Gr1 winning sprinter Thunderstruck has been retired after injuring his knee in a spectacular victory at Turffontein on Saturday.

Sean Tarry’s dual Gr1 winning sprinter Thunderstruck has been retired after injuring his knee in a spectacular victory at Turffontein on Saturday.

The multiple national champion trainer reported on his website late on Monday that it is very disappointing to note that Thunderstruck injured his knee in what looked like a very comfortable and spectacular victory.

“In consultation with the vets and racing manager, Jehan Malherbe, given how late it is in the season,and considering all that he has done for us and the brilliant season he has had, not to mention his value as a stallion, a decision

has been made to retire him immediately. I would like to take the opportunity to thank Mary Slack for entrusting me with this magnificent colt throughout his short but illustrious racing career.

Thunderstruck, notable for his good looks and soundness (before his injury), has all the credentials to be a top stallion and will stand the new season at Ridgemont in Robertson.

A BSA Online Auction recordbreaker at R1 241 000 as part of the Javett Dispersal, the Avontuur-bred Thunderstruck was originally acquired for R1 million BSA National Yearling Sale in 2021 by Form Bloodstock.

Strydom,

Credit: JC Photos

A son of leading Redoute’s Choice stallion Rafeef, he is out of the Gr2 winning Var mare, Varikate.

After being crowned Highveld Feature Season Champion Sprinter on Saturday evening, Thunderstruck remains a leading candidate for Equus Champion Sprinter honours.

Thunderstruck retires with a top record of 8 victories (including two Gr1’s) with 7 places from his 18 starts for stakes of R2 541 938.

A STAR-STUDDED HIGHVELD EVENING

Trainer

and owner

enjoy Purple

(2nd and

award with a host of supporters

Robyn Klaasen

Stincky Pooe

3rd left)

Pitcher’s

Credit: JC Photos

The Mike de Kock-trained US-bound Gimme A Nother was crowned Horse Of The Season at the 2024 Highveld Feature Season Awards held at The Galleria in Sandton on Saturday evening.

The event, with Benni Langa as MC, honoured and celebrated the achievements of the stars of the Highveld Feature season, which ended with the Championships Finale at Turffontein on Saturday 27 April.

The 3yo Gimme A Nother, unbeaten in her seven starts, was along with fellow sophomore Purple Pitcher and Royal Victory, one of a trio of dual Gr1 winners during the Highveld Season, and was a deserved winner of the major title. In addition to her two Gr1 successes, the daughter of Gimmethegreenlight won two Gr2’s, and a Gr3. She was also crowned Champion 3yo Filly.

Both Purple Pitcher and Royal Victory were acknowledged, the latter winning two trophies on the evening.

The Robyn Klaasen-trained New Predator colt Purple Pitcher was a model of consistency and was crowned Champion Stayer. Beaten only once in his last eight starts, he won all of the Gr1 TAB SA Classic, the Gr1 TAB SA Derby Jonsson Workwear Gr2 Dingaans.

The Nathan Kotzen-trained Pathfork gelding Royal Victory was crowned Champion Older Horse and Champion Middle Distance Horse, due recognition for winning the Gr1 Betway Summer Cup and the Gr 1 Premier’s Champions Challenge. The KZN raider made a name for himself on the Highveld and is set to take his place in the Hollywoodbets Durban July.

The Tony Peter-trained Pathfork gelding Main Defender has been a standout of his generation on the Highveld and a newsmaker of some proportions.

He was crowned Champion 3yo Colt/ Gelding after winning the Wilgerbosdrift HF Oppenheimer Gr1 Horse Chestnut Stakes, the

Piere Strydom accepts Thunderstruck’s Champion Sprinter trophy from 4Racing CEO Fundi Sithebe and Charles Savage | Credit: JC Photos

Betway Gr2 Joburg Spring Challenge, the Betway Gr3 Graham Back Stakes the Betway Gr3 Got The Green Light Stakes. Off a rating of 131, he is the highest rated galloper on the Highveld.

The Sean Tarry-trained Thunderstruck won his Gr1 Golden Horse Sprint prep race at Turffontein on Saturday and was crowned Champion Sprinter. The son of Rafeef was triumphant in the Jonsson Workwear Gr1 Computaform Sprint, and also won the Khaya Stables Gr2 Diadem Stakes down South.

The Candice Dawson-trained Vercingetorix filly Little Ballerina was crowned Champion 2yo Filly after a great season, capped by her victory in the Wilgerbosdrift Gr2 SA Nursery, while Alec Laird’s Fire Away colt Fire Attack was awarded the Champion 2yo Colt / Gelding trophy following his big win in the TAB Gr2 SA Nursery.

The thrilled Fire Attack connections on stage – there has to be plenty of ‘fireworks’ for them with their champion in the future!| Credit: JC Photos

James Maree hands Champion Work Rider

Anathi Feni his trophy | Credit: JC Photos

Something of a perennial bridesmaid, but winner of the Betway Gr2 Joburg Spring (F&M) Challenge, the exported Flower Alley filly Feather Boa galloped off with the Champion Older Filly/Mare title.

The human awards were straightforward, with Mike de Kock and Richard Fourie, on the cusp of his 300th winner this term, the champion trainer and jockey respectively, while Jessica Jell’s Mauritzfontein was the champion owner.

ALL THE WINNERS:

Champion Two-Year-Old Filly: Little Ballerina

Champion Two-Year-Old Colt/Gelding: Fire Attack

Champion Three-Year-Old Filly: Gimme A Nother

Champion Three-Year-Old Colt/Gelding: Main Defender

Champion Older Filly/Mare: Feather Boa

Champion Older Horse: Royal Victory

Champion Sprinter:Thunderstruck

Champion Middle Distance Horse: Royal Victory

Champion Stayer: Purple Pitcher

Champion Work Rider: Anathi Feni

Champion Apprentice: Malesela Katjedi

Champion Breeder of the Season: Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein

Champion Owner of the Season: Mauritzfontein (Pty) Ltd (Nom: Mrs JB Jell)

Champion Jockey of the Season: Richard Fourie

Champion Trainer of the Season: Mike de Kock

Horse Of The Season: Gimme A Nother

A GREAT STORY ABOUT A SUPER SON OF PATHFORK

Charl Pretorius writes that beyond his impressive racing record, Royal Victory has brought much needed joy and elation to those around him.

“In the quiet moments spent with a horse, we can find our centre, ground ourselves, and tap into the healing power of their presence.” – Author Unknown.

Royal Victory, a winner in two categories at Saturday evening’s Highveld Feature Season Awards, is a remarkable thoroughbred whose impact transcends the racetrack.

Moreover, he has played a pivotal role in helping two families cope with severe trauma.

The story of Royal Victory goes back to May 2011 when Chantel Victor, a passionate horse lover and the beautiful 18-year-old daughter of Pieter and Belinda Victor, was diagnosed with adrenal cancer.

This diagnosis came just months after she had successfully completed her Matric year and was eagerly anticipating the start of her adult life and career.

Royal Victory wins the 2023 Gr1 Betway Summer Cup| Credit: 4Racing

The news was devastating, as Chantel had been in excellent health, and this type of cancer is typically only seen in adults over the age of 40.

Pieter recalled, “They removed a massive tumour from Chantel’s abdomen. She fought bravely for four years, but the cancer began spreading to the rest of her body, and she ultimately lost her battle in 2015. This was a period marked by profound sorrow and anguish that is difficult to put into words.”

During this time, another young horse lover, Savanah May, one of three daughters born to Wendy May and adopted by her life partner,

Nathan Kotzen, was living life in a way that deeply touched everyone around her. Savanah exuded a vibrant energy, with a loud, happy, and passionate demeanour, coupled with an infectious laugh that filled the room. She had a loving presence that left a lasting impact on those she encountered.

A RARE CHANCE FOR A CHARLES DICKENS SERVICE

The Cape Breeders Club will be hosting its annual Stallion Service Auction at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on 26 May.

With services to some outstanding stallions on sale, this auction is a must-attend event for all breeders looking to acquire a service to the right horse this season.

Below is the list of stallions, plus farms who have so generously donated services, who will have services available on the live auction:

• Buffalo Bill Cody: Wilgerbosdrift

• Charles Dickens: Drakenstein Stud

• Danon Platina: Mauritzfontein

• Digital Age: Mauritzfontein

• Fire Away: Wilgerbosdrift

• Hawwaam: Wilgerbosdrift

• Jet Dark: Drakenstein Stud

• Legislate: Cheveley Stud

• Master Of My Fate: Varsfontein Stud

• One World: Drakenstein Stud

• Querari: Maine Chance Farms

• Rafeef: Ridgemont

• Sandringham Summit: Varsfontein Stud

• The United States: Moutonshoek

• Vercingetorix: Maine Chance Farms

• What A Winter: Drakenstein Stud

It must be mentioned that Charles Dickens is fully booked for the upcoming breeding season and the Stallion Service Auction represents the only chance for outside breeders to get a service to the Son Of Trippi this season.

In addition, a number of top-class stallions

will have services available on the Silent Bid Auction.

The auction will be held after the last race on the 26 May at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth in the 1881 Lounge. Racing commences at 12h00 on the day.

Lunch and drinks will be served during the afternoon.

People wishing to attend the auction are asked to RSVP Wendy Probert at: secretary@ capebreeders.co.za

STALLION SERVICES CATALOGUE ONLINE

The catalogue of stallion services offered by the Cape Breeders Club this coming Sunday 26 May, has been published.

The popular annual Stallion Service Auction will be held at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.

Cape Breeders Club Chairman James Armitage has thanked stallion owners and their agents for the kind donation of services. The income from this event is their only source of income

and the body benefits a variety of industry sectors, including Grooms education, the Western Cape Equine Trust and Horse care units across South Africa.

The auction will be held after the last race on Sunday at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth in the 1881 Lounge. Racing commences at 12h00 on the day. Lunch and drinks will be served during the afternoon.

Those wishing to attend the auction are asked to RSVP Wendy Probert at secretary@capebreeders.co.za.

A CHAMPION MILESTONE

Winning Form-sponsored jockey Malesela ‘Keratile’ Katjedi was crowned Champion Apprentice at the Highveld Feature Season Awards in Sandton on Saturday.

The 19 year old dedicated the trophy to his late father, ‘LJ’ Katjedi who tragically passed away 18 years ago, having qualified as a jockey only eight days earlier.

Keratile was just 18-months old when his Dad

passed on. The young man’s love for horse riding was inspired by his grandfather, Amos Katjedi, who told him about the SA Jockey Academy when he was only ten-years-old. The rest, as they say, is history.

Keratile proudly receives his trophy from Riding Master, Robert Moore | Credit: JC Photographics

Saturday evening’s function was an emotional occasion for the talented young jockey from Naboomspruit, and some highly deserved acknowledgement for hard work, dedication and commitment since he registered his first victory on the David Nieuwenhuizen-trained Golden Tune at the Vaal on 13 January 2022.

Talking to the Sporting Post afterwards, a pleased as punch Keratile said that he had prepped an acceptance speech, but that he went completely blank as he stepped up to the microphone.

“I had an idea that I was getting the award, so I wrote down a few thoughts, and made sure that I was going to show appreciation to all the right people, and demonstrate my deep humility and pride in what was a milestone in my short career. But then I stood there and forgot everything. I then spoke from the heart, which is probably the right place to speak from anyway, I suppose. And it was so good to have my Mom Nora and my Aunt Phina there to share the evening with me!’ he adds emotionally.

It’s a big seven days for Keratile, as he partners the Drakenstein bred and raced Listed Stormsvlei Stakes winner Future Girl for trainer Brett Crawford in the TAB Gr1 Woolavington 2000 on Saturday at Hollywoodbets Greyville.

We asked him how it felt to have a ride in the maiden Gr1 race of the 2024 SA Champions Season.

“It’s an honour and a true privilege to wear the Drakenstein Blue in a top level race. And if Future Girl repeats her run in the KRA Listed East Coast Cup, where Saartjie only got to us late, then she must have a chance of going very close, even if we are out of it on paper in a high quality field. I always go out positively,” he adds confidently.

Keratile is based at the Johannesburg branch of the SA Jockey Academy, alongside Siyanda Sosibo, Nirvan Nastili, and the currently injured Trent Mayhew. Due to the location of the

academy, most of the work riding is done at Randjesfontein.

“I have found that things have picked up for me since I moved to Johannesburg and I really try and get to as many trainers as possible to ride as much work as the time allows. James Crawford has been very kind and helpful to me, and Kabelo (Matsunyane) and I chat a lot about tactics, and we do post-race analysis too. It helps to improve my riding, and is valuable for the next time I jump on the same horse.”

We asked him if he has to watch his weight.

“I am one of the very lucky ones. I keep fit and I can eat properly and ride at both ends of the weight spectrum. I realise that I am still young, but don’t take advantage or push the boundaries in terms of my diet,” he smiles.

So did he crack the champagne open and celebrate afterwards on Saturday evening?

“We had a great time, but no champagne as I had to make sure I got the family home safely,” he adds.

Talk of driving home was our cue to ask him about his independence and social life, his family, and the Keratile that has a life outside of racing.

“There is great camaraderie at the academy, but I also try and go home to Naboomspruit as often as I can. It’s under two hours away and we are very family oriented people.”

Does he make use of public transport?

“I have a vehicle that was gifted to me by my family. It’s definitely not fast or smart, but it’s reliable and I will never sell it,” he laughs as he tells us about his trusted hand-me-down Toyota Corolla, that gets him from A to B.

When asked how he would market a career as a jockey to future generations, Keratile adds maturely that it’s ‘simply the best job in the world’.

“Where does one get to work every day with beautiful animals, in the outdoors, and in an international sport that creates so many opportunities? It’s not a job. It’s a passion. I am living my dream, and sure, I don’t need to eat frugally and watch my diet, which is a dark downside for many guys, and there are dangers. But a positive mindset and hard work makes the sky the limit.”

Has he got a nickname?

“I have many. Keratile, MK, even the Jedi – the last four letters of my surname. I don’t mind. As long as nobody’s arguing or being nasty, they can call me anything they choose!”

He tells how he has enjoyed the support of so many and asks for the chance to thank his benefactors and supporters.

“The Hollywood Foundation has been hugely instrumental in my success as they took the financial burden of my academy fees off my

grandmother’s shoulders. Winning Form is a top brand and massively supportive sponsors. Then I have mentioned my wonderful family, the owners, the trainers and our inspirational Riding Master, Mr Robert Moore. There are just so many kind people that have been behind me,” he observes.

Keratile expects to come out of his time between August and December this year.

On his future plans, he says he wants to stay on the Highveld.

“Family support is all important. And I have built relationships with trainers and owners, which I’d like to try and grow. I have lots to learn, and this is a good place with great people, to build a solid foundation,” he concludes.

FOURIE IS FIRE!

Richard Fourie guides Commanding to victory | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

In what is proving to be the dream season of his professional life, Winning Form-sponsored Richard Fourie registered his 300th winner of the term when guiding the popular fancy Commanding to victory for Glen Kotzen in the opener at a sunny Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday.

It was on 6 March that Fourie booted Parmenion home at Hollywoodbets Greyville for Garth Puller to bring his double century up.

And just ten weeks later the 300 is on the board as he joins a very select group of three top jockeys to ever reach that level in this country.

The talented jockey now continues his chase to beat Anthony Delpech’s 25-year long marker of 334.

Hollywoodbets offered a R1 million incentive at the start of this season for the first jockey to beat the Delpech record, and that bar is surely just weeks away at Fourie’s current strike-rate.

Richard’s previous season best was 258, while he was crowned Highveld Feature Season Champion Jockey just 24 hours earlier.

With Cape form to much stronger than he faced

on Sunday, it wasn’t difficult to find the Maine Chance-bred Commanding, a son of Cape Guineas winner William Longsword, who cost R275 000 on the Cape Premier Yearling Sale.

An emotional Richard Fourie saluted at the line and extended many thanks in the post-race interview, including that to Glen Kotzen, who has been one of his biggest supporters.

“To my ex-wife Tatum and my children, as well as my partner Andrea, thanks for making the sacrifices. To my support team – my agent Ken Nicol, it’s a chip and a putt from here. To my drivers in all the centres. To all the trainers and owners, and to my colleagues. The jockey room is a different place that it was five years ago. We are like family – in fact the jockeys see each other more than we do our families and friends, in many cases,” he laughed, as he extended thanks to his sponsors, Winning Form.

100 ON THE BOARD FOR KELLY

East Cape trainer Kelly Mitchley celebrated a career milestone century of winners at Fairview on Friday, courtesy of the Lancaster Bomber gelding Launch Code, who won the fifth race on the card.

The 27-year-old Kelly Mitchley only saddled her first runner on 1 July 2022, at a time when many thought she was very brave to be setting out in one of the toughest jobs on earth.

But time has proven the doubters wrong, and the lifetime horsewoman has grown her string on her family’s De La Ranch, just 3km away from the Nelson Mandela Bay Racing headquarters, to be the third largest, and fastest growing, in the region.

Kelly learnt from the best, including Justin Snaith, Corne Spies, Gavin Smith and Johan Janse van Vuuren and has applied the skills and principles constructively, showing exponential growth, with Launch Code her 60th winner this term.

Smanga Khumalo steered the Laurence Wernars bred Launch Code to his second win from 13 starts, in the MR 66 Handicap, and the combination followed up two races later when the Maine Chance raced and bred Passchendaele made it two wins from her three starts in the Eastern Cape.

Alan Greeff saddled three winners on the afternoon, two of which were ridden by Richard Fourie, Charles Ndhlovu won the last for Greeff on the promising Canford Cliffs 2yo Can’t Say No, who scored a nice win in open company, to close the meeting.

The next Fairview racemeeting is on Friday 24 May, where the Listed Milkwood Stakes heads the card.

Smanga Khumalo is flanked by Kyle Paddock and Kelly Mitchley after Launch Code brought up the 100 winners milestone | Credit: Pauline Herman

HIGHS AND LOWS OF BEING A JOCKEY

Friday was a day of mixed fortunes for East Cape jockey, Charles Ndlovu.

While he received a warning and then crossed the line on whip use and was given a hefty fine, he at least closed the Fairview card on a high by winning the last on the Canford Cliffs filly, Can’t Say No for Alan Greeff.

After the fourth race, Ndlovu appeared before the Board and was shown the patrol film pertaining to his crop use on Slainte Mhath in the closing stages.

He was advised that although he was not in contravention of Rule 58.10.2 (Guideline M) in relation to hitting a horse more than 12 times in the entire race, he still has the obligation to

allow his mounts time to respond to his crop use and should be mindful of the height of his crop arm and the degree of force that he uses.

In the very next race, he was charged with a contravention of Rule 58.10.2 (read with Guideline M on the use of the crop) in that as the rider of Irontail he misused his crop by striking his mount more than 12 times (14) which was not warranted when considering the circumstances of the race.

Charles Ndlovu signed an admission of guilt and was fined R6 000.

Charles Ndlovu has been charged for misuse of the crop | Credit: Pauline Herman

HEADING DOWN TO THE DERBY

The Epsom Derby of 2024 is less than two weeks away, scheduled to take place on the ‘Downs’ on the 01 June. The race is being sponsored by bookmaker Betfred for the first time, with a huge £850,650 going to winning connections.

At this stage, without any supplementary entries, the declarations have reduced to 21 colts.

City Of Troy is currently trading as the 7/4 favourite. The Ballydoyle colt was an underwhelming 9th in the 2000 Guineas on his seasonal return earlier this month.

There was plenty of 6/1 available for him

post-race, but his opposition has either had setbacks or is not currently declared.

Aidan O’Brien is adamant that he had City Of Troy underdone at Newmarket and come June that will certainly not be the case. He may well replicate Auguste Rodin’s transformation of last year, but it’s hard to get excited at his current odds given his lacklustre seasonal showing.

Similar odds, albeit ‘with a run,’ are being quoted about last week’s exciting Dante winner Economics. The most impressive Derby ‘trial’ winner this season, the Night Of Thunder colt quickened away up the York straight to beat Ancient Wisdom by six lengths.

Godolphin’s Gr1 Futurity Stakes winner Ancient Wisdom – the 2400m should suit the son of Dubawi | Credit: Godolphin

However, despite his success, the William Haggas-trained colt would need to be added back into the race on Monday, at a cost of £75,000, having been removed from it at the previous confirmation stage.

On pedigree, his stamina isn’t certain for a mileand-a-half. He’s a big colt and his two wins this spring have been on the galloping tracks of Newbury and York. Epsom, with its cambered bend and undulating straight will be a whole new ball game.

The Godolphin operation has had an unfortunate fortnight with the tragic loss of Chester Vase Stakes winner Hidden Law just after the winning post, and then having to withdraw Derby favourite Arabian Crown following a setback.

They are left with Gr1 Futurity Stakes winner Ancient Wisdom who reappeared in the Dante Stakes only to receive a thrashing from the Tom Marquand-ridden Economics.

However, a mile-and-a-half will suit the Dubawi colt, and with his stablemate’s absence, he would be Will Buick’s ride in the blue-riband event.

At bigger prices, the Andrew Balding-trained Bellum Justum earned his place in the line-up when winning the Blue Riband Trial at Epsom last month, whilst Ambiente Friendly was impressive for the James Fanshawe yard when well clear in the Lingfield Derby Trial.

Finally, the past ten years have shown it is foolish to ignore the Ballydoyle second and even third strings.

This year, Aidan O’Brien’s backup includes Chester Dee Stakes winner Capulet and Leopardstown Trial hero Los Angeles. The latter, an unbeaten strapping son of Camelot, is sure to see out the trip and looks a good eachway selection in a puzzling renewal.

NO BLOW FROM

BIG ROCK

Maurizio Guarnieri was left to bemoan conditions at Newbury after Big Rock failed to deliver a blow on his debut for the trainer in the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes.

The son of Rock Of Gibraltar was the highestrated miler in the world last season when trained by Christopher Head, but owners Yeguada Centurion SL made the decision to switch the colt for this season to Guarnieri.

Having chased home Ace Impact in the Prix du Jockey Club, he dropped back to a mile to finish second in some high-class events last season before ending 2023 with an emphatic display in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot.

That six-length success came on rain-softened ground on British Champions Day, and Chantilly-based Italian Guarnieri was dreaming of similar when he looked at the weather

Big Rock fails to deliver at Newbury | Credit: Racing TV on X

forecasts ahead of Big Rock’s latest UK raid.

But the anticipated rainfall never materialised for the strapping four-year-old, as the 11-4 second-favourite could only finish sixth, beaten 15 lengths behind shock winner Audience.

Guarnieri said: “We know that the ground is a real problem and if he had the ground OK for him, after 210 days off then he would have been OK.

“But this is a Group One and against horses with one or two races and it is not so easy and with the conditions it felt like the world was against us.

“The horse didn’t show what he can do in heavy and soft ground, he didn’t change his speed and normally the others are three and four lengths behind, but today he just stayed at the same pace.”

Big Rock holds an entry in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot where he would have the chance to recreate his QEII heroics.

However, Guarnieri has warned he would like to see soft in the going description before committing to another visit to Berkshire.

“I think before we decide we need to know the horse is all right and then discuss it with the owner,” continued Guarnieri.

“In my opinion, he could go to Ascot if we get some soft ground which can sometimes happen at Ascot.

“We were just unlucky with the weather and he has had 200 days off. The jockey said the horse was just the same all the time and he had no chance in the race.”

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WHYTE’S WISH MAY COME TRUE

Rain is at the top of trainer Douglas Whyte’s wish list and the Hong Kong Observatory has currently bestowed a favourable forecast upon him and stable star Russian Emperor.

Seeking a third straight HK$13 million Gr1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup at Sha Tin on Sunday, Russian Emperor thrives on wet tracks and is set to receive his preferred conditions with daily rainfall expected until early next week.

“The rain is not going to inconvenience me or my horse. Let’s hope it sticks around until the weekend,” Whyte said. “I sat on him on Tuesday for a turf gallop – he felt amazing, he strode out beautifully and he loved getting his toe in. It was a good piece of work and he’s on song.”

Russian Emperor performs well in adverse conditions| Credit: HKJC

The Irish-bred son of Galileo famously won the 2022 Gr1 Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup on yielding ground over Golden Sixty. The two-time Hong Kong Champion Stayer (2021/22 & 2022/23) Russian Emperor clocked 1m 21.8s (30.2, 28.8, 22.8) on Tuesday.

“He’s been primed for this race. It’s been well documented that this is the race that I have had in mind all year and he comes good this time of the year. If the rain sticks around it’s going to enhance his chances, but Rebel’s Romance is a really good horse – the way he won in Dubai, he looks like a proper individual,” Whyte said.

Rebel’s Romance arrives in Hong Kong as the third international to contest the Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup after Chemical Charge (2018) and Happy Grin (2019).

Five G Patch, La City Blanche, Straight Arron, Senor Toba, Moments In Time and Massive Sovereign also hold entries.

seventh earlier this month in the HK$4.2 million Gr3 Queen Mother Memorial Cup Handicap under jockey Hugh Bowman.

“I think he rolled into the race beautifully on the bend, he knocked up over the 150 metres, but he was entitled to with the preparation that he has had. He has that distance into his legs now and he’s stripped fitter, it’s three weeks between runs so the timing has worked out well,” Whyte said.

Russian Emperor has won three times in Hong Kong – each time at Group 1 level.

“He’s been like a kid to me, we’ve done a lot together. I’m pretty much the only one that’s ever galloped him – so we have a very tight bond,” Whyte said.

Russian Emperor – a seven-year-old – finished

“He’s been the star of my yard and the making of my young career, as a trainer. He’s going to be very sadly missed when the day comes that he has to retire.

Since 1975, River Verdon (1991-1994) has the most wins in the race, while the only three-time victors are Super Win (1975-1977), Silver Lining (1978, 1979 & 1981) and Viva Pataca (2006, 2007 & 2009).

Candiese Lenferna

LE GRANGE SADDLES SINGAPORE WINNER

Jockey Bruno Queiroz redeemed himself with a patient ride on Ace Of Diamonds and the pair struck gold in the SG$150,000 Gr2 Singapore Guineas at Kranji on Saturday.

Trained by Ricardo Le Grange, the smart three-year-old gave the Brazilian jockey his first Singapore Group victory in the Gr3 Singapore Three-Year-Old Sprint on 06 April.

Things, however, did not go smoothly at this next start in the Gr2 Singapore 3YO Classic three weeks ago.

Queiroz had Ace Of Diamonds out wide and closer to the speed and while in the straight, they were slightly hindered when Bakeel sprinted past at the 250m, albeit the son of

Swiss Ace still hung on for third to eventual winner Lim’s Bighorn.

After the run, Queiroz made a call to his godfather and world-famous jockey, Joao Moreira, and heeded his advice on Ace Of Diamonds.

“Ricardo was not happy after his last run, so I called my godfather (Moreira),” said Queiroz, who celebrated his 23rd birthday on Wednesday.

Ace Of Diamonds (Bruno Queiroz) shoots clear to win the Group 2 Singapore Guineas | Credit: STC

“He watched the race and told me ‘this horse, you have to come from behind’. He told me to be patient.”

The words from someone dear and one of the best jockeys in the world must have been deeply etched in his mind. The young rider, who once described his riding style as “more explosive”, dropped Ace Of Diamonds to fourth last in the field of 12 and bided his time after jumping well from barrier eight for the third time.

Singapore 3YO Classic winner Lim’s Bighorn (Marc Lerner) led at a good clip in front with Boardroom (Carlos Henrique) sitting on his girth and favourite Bakeel (Manoel Nunes) behind in third.

Queiroz had not lifted a finger on Ace Of Diamonds at the bend, even if Lim’s Bighorn and Boardroom were striding away from the rest. Turning for home, Ace Of Diamonds slotted in beautifully behind Bakeel and peeled out at the 250m for his final assault.

The SG$27 shot exploded past Bakeel and the tiring Lim’s Bighorn to a four-length win. Bakeel lost no marks in second while Lim’s Smythe (Chad Schofield), who came from further back, flew home to finish third another neck away.

The winning time was 1 min 33.99secs for the 1600m on the Short Course.

The birthday boy, who snared a double on Saturday as favourite Lim’s Saltoro also saluted in the SG$100,000 Aramaayo 2020 Stakes, a Kranji Stakes A race one race earlier, was glad all things went well at his second Group win at Kranji.

“This horse is wonderful and he’s learning. He has a good sprint when he comes from

Winning connections jubilant on stage – (from left) Owners Karen and Leonardo Javier, jockey Bruno Queiroz and trainer Ricardo Le Grange | Credit: STC

behind,” said Queiroz, who had his jockey father Antonio and mother Sandra at the winner’s circle with him.

“The race went perfect for me today. This horse is very well. It’s a very good job by Ricardo and all the people who worked on him.

“I am very happy because my father and mother is here, and it was my birthday last week Wednesday.

“Ace Of Diamonds can go over longer no problem.”

Le Grange, who was at his first Singapore Guineas win, was equally satisfied with the win.

“Last start, Queiroz got him on the outside. I was disappointed but I’ve got a lot of faith in this horse,” said the South African handler, who also bagged a double later courtesy of Hole In One winning the SG$75,000 Debt Collector

2016 Stakes, a Novice race.

“Today, he gave him a bit of chance, switched off and it was very impressive. The rain helped him, most definitely.

“Massive thanks to (owners) Karen (Leonardo Javier) and Sandy who are on course to see their horse win.

“I’ll speak to the guys and decide where he goes next.

“It’s sad that this is the last Singapore Guineas and I feel it, but let’s just enjoy this moment.”

With five wins and four placings in 11 starts, Ace Of Diamonds has amassed over SG$300,000 in prizemoney for his owner Leonardo Javier

AGING WITH GRACE –

VAL RIXON

Val Rixon turned 90 on Saturday – pictured with her late hubby Ralph Rixon |

Credit: Kathi Kotzen

The Sporting Post pays tribute to a grand and wonderful lady of the turf. Val Rixon, who turned 90 on 18 May, has become South African horseracing’s newest nonagenarian.

Val’s father was the wine maker at Constantia and she learned to ride as a child. She rode in the halcyon days of the Cape Hunt. How we miss those wonderful school holiday memories!

An accomplished work-rider, Val was crowned the then Northern Rhodesian Champion jockey in 1966.

Kathi Kotzen told the Sporting Post that Val Rixon is a ‘living legend’.

“They don’t make them like Val, any more,” laments Kath, whose own Mom Judy Wintle is made in much the same mould!

Val’s late husband Ralph, he of Jamaican Music fame, passed away in July 2022 at the age of 90.

Jamaican Music, their best horse, won the Durban July 48 years ago. This photo should evoke some memories.

And if that doesn’t date you, nothing will. None of us are getting any younger.

We hope the 90th birthday celebrations were memorable Aunty Val and we wish you many, many, more!

WHERE ARE ALL THE RETIRED STARS?

A reminder that Heversham Park Stud Farm of Gauteng is planning to launch and sponsor an annual event for retired veteran jockeys.

The race will take place over 1000m at Turffontein, and Heversham’s Kat Riley said that they would like to name it the ‘Tickey Carr & Terry Lowe Memorial’.

Heversham Park Stud Farm has again called on veteran riders to put their names down for the race.

All race conditions, including weights, will be finalised, once interest has been established.

Heversham’s concept entails a minimum age of 50 years for any veteran riders to compete, and a maximum weight of 75kg.

Martin Ball, Karl Neisius, Michael Roberts (subject to Dennis Bosch and Mark Dixon also riding ) Markus Bachmann, Willie Uys, Glen Zimmerman, Mark Truter, Frikkie Vermaak, Derek Martin (confirmed today) and Eric Fordred are keen.

Interested veteran riders are requested to mail info@hevershampark.co.za for more information.

Robin Bruss (far right) seen at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth with his nephew (twin sister Didi’s son) and late brother Neil |

Credit: Supplied

LIFE- BETTER

This is the one story that he didn’t want released, but we are publishing it anyway! On Friday 24 May Robin Bruss and his twin sister Didi will celebrate their 70th birthday in Germany.

A man with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the industry, he can literally talk for 5 hours solid on any racing and breeding related subject, and we have been privileged to welcome him in recent months as a guest writer on our editorial team.

Robin was born into a racing family and has been involved with horse racing and breeding all his life as an owner, breeder, agent, auctioneer, journalist, television presenter, researcher, administrator and consultant. It is a dizzying list of accomplishments and there’s no question that he has acquitted himself admirably at all of them. Moreover, he boasts a set of racing colours that is the longest running in the country after the famous black and yellow strip of Jessica Jell and her family.

Robin said prior to his departure last week, that he really doesn’t feel a day older than 20.

Whatever the secret, Happy birthday Robin and Didi from all of us at the Sporting Post.

And many more!

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