Issuu

Wednesday 23 September 2026

HERITAGE! 23 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 1

SPRING IN THE

COUNTRY! v

In this week’s issue... Matchem Magic! Spring into action on Saturday

A New Era Dawns Race Coast and 4Racing align processes

Willow Magic Winner Snaith eyes Highveld

Pick 6 Knockout Blue Monday – for some!

Autumn Glows From Africa to the world!

On the cover A flashback to the 2025 Schweppes Gr3 Diana Stakes and a reminder of some great racing action in the pipeline at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday. Last year’s renewal was won by the Ambiance Stud-bred One World filly She’s My World, ridden by Muzi Yeni for Justin Snaith. Image courtesy of Chase Liebenberg.

Issue: 38/2026

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THE FORCE COULD BE WITH US v

ON SATURDAY The 2026 renewal of the time-honoured R350 000 Gr3 Matchem Stakes hosts a field of ten at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday. 4 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

Jet Force – ticks all the boxes in the Matchem Stakes on Saturday | Credit: Julia Marnewick

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With chances to a number of them, and fitness an unknown at this stage of the season, it may pay to go wide in the exotics – although some will argue that Des McLachlan’s Jet Force ticks most of the boxes. The son of Master Of My Fate grew in stature last season, and has won four of his last seven starts, including a shining two for two over Saturday’s track and trip! With regular rider Grant van Niekerk back from Mauritius and in the irons, he looks the one that they all have to beat. Philippi trainer Robert Barrett started his first season with a flyer, and the family favourite Chasingtherainbow had plenty to do with that. The very talented son of Potala Palace completed his hat-trick when winning his last start over a mile. The gelding returns from a 14 week rest and could emerge as the biggest threat to the top pick.

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Justin Snaith’s Legal Counsel finished fifth behind his star stablemate Eight On Eighteen in the HKJC Champions Cup last time. He has pulled gate five and will be looking to chalk up his second win from as many starts over this course and distance and could be a serious threat running fresh. Gavin Lerena’s engagement needs to be confirmed after a fall at the Vaal on Tuesday. La Pulga returns from a twelve week rest following a quiet trip to KZN. The gelding ideally prefers further but he has won over this distance and could be a factor here. His 8yo stablemate Sugar Mountain has his third consecutive bid for glory in the Matchem, with his best a fourth place behind Questioning in 2024. The Gr3 Diana Stakes provides us with what appears to be the day’s best bet in the accomplished Snaith mare Double Grand Slam.

The often celebrated Double Grand Slam – tough to beat in the Diana Stakes | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

Kannemeyer’s Soho Heartthrob – value in the staying feature | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

The well-travelled daughter of champion sire Vercingetorix has her first run after a twelve week rest and will be ridden for the first time by Keagan de Melo. She is a multiple Grade 1 winner who has posted one win and two seconds place over the course and distance. Double Grand Slam is very well-weighted here and looks likely to add to her already impressive record. The Listed Settlers Trophy is the third of the day’s trio of stakes events. The standout looks to be Justin Snaith’s Prairie Dawn who has consistent form lines to his name and followed up his penultimate victory over 1600m with a third placed finish next time out over 1950m, just over a half length off the winner.

rest, the engagement of Keagan de Melo is encouraging. Stablemate Miami Summer goes for a hattrick after wins over 1400M and 1600M. He is drawn in gate two and should relish the step up in trip. Dean Kannemeyer’s lightly raced Soho Heartthrob won by 0.,4L last time out over a mile and was put away for 11 weeks. He returns here, jumping from a useful gate four and gets the services of champion jockey Craig Zackey. He could be the value. Andre Nel’s Congressman returns from a considerably longer 42 week spell, but he has consistent form lines to his credit. If not too much in need of the run, he must be respected. The first of 9 races on a bumper card is off at 12h37.

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Charles Dickens (Aldo Domeyer) wins the Matchem in 2023 Credit: Chase Liebenberg

MATCHEM’S MAGIC

HISTORY

Top-class campaigners, including five future sires, have added the Matchem Stakes silverware to their impressive cv’s over the past fourteen renewals of the 1400m season launch contest. Saturday’s class of 2026 is set to continue the proud tradition, although not into the stallion ranks – 9 of the 10 are geldings, with just Piet Botha’s maiden winner Magma Flow, the only 3yo in the class of ’26, a colt. Equus champion Questioning has won the Matchem for Vaughan Marshall for the past two renewals, with some other big names in the mix over the years. Present day Drakenstein stallion Charles Dickens made it a double for Candice BassRobinson and Aldo Domeyer in 2023 year after Trip Of Fortune’s victory in 2022. The combination, who also won it in 2017 with the Aussie-bred Our Mate Art, are represented by Sugar Mountain on Saturday. The revitalized 10 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

8 year old makes his third consecutive bid for glory in the Matchem – having finished a career best fourth behind Questioning in 2024. Met winners One World and Rainbow Bridge won the Matchem in 2019 and 2018, respectively. Champion miler Capetown Noir won it in 2013, while Joey Ramsden’s dual SA Horse Of The Year Variety Club took the honours in 2011. Another interesting name on the honour roll of relatively recent times is that of present day champion sire Captain Al, who was trained by Vaughan Marshall and won it in the hands of Jeff Lloyd in 1999.

The Matchem was traditionally run at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth but was switched to Hollywoodbets Durbanville in 2010, the year it was again won by Vaughan Marshall with Tales Of Bravery, who was ridden by MJ Byleveld. The most successful Matchem trainers of the 21st century include pacesetter Vaughan Marshall and the now retired Glen Puller, who won it in 2002 and 2003 with Sevilliano, when ridden by Gerrit Schlechter and Karl Neisius, respectively. Glen Puller also trained the 2005 winner Great Rhythm, who was piloted by Greg Cheyne, and the 2014 winner Reim, who was ridden by his late son, Chris. The earliest traceable record of the Matchem Stakes dates back to 1958. It was open to 2 and 3yo horses and run on 19 April over 1400m at Kenilworth for a stake of £1,250. The idea of running juveniles against threeyear-olds over 7 furlongs in April, at what was more or less weight for age terms came in for

a lot of criticism, with many feeling it was too much to ask of the youngsters. However, on the day a total of 6 runners faced the starter, including two 2yo’s (Kowloon and Avon) and four 3yo’s. The 1958 running of the Matchem proved the quality and strength of the juvenile crop. Although the game filly Kowloon cantered to post as the favourite, she failed to show and it was left to Mr A Kruyer’s colt Avon. Ridden by M Strydom and carrying 7st 8lb, Avon brought the field into the straight and never looked like being headed, scoring by half a length from the fast-finishing Southern Drawl (8st 13lb) who had been hampered when making his run. Burweed (8st. 13lb) finished a neck back third and Squeegee (9st 2lb) was fourth. The 2yo Avon was a bay colt by Naval Prince out of Avonet and was bred by J.R.A. Bailey. He was owned and trained by Mr A Kruyer.

Greg Ennion’s La Mancha (Eric Chelin) wins the Matchem in 1994 in the Marsh Shirtliff silks | Credit: Supplied

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The Matchem Stakes is named after the famous Thoroughbred foundation stallion, Matchem (1748 – 21 February 1781).

stud in Northumberland until he was fully mature and commenced his racing career at the age of 5.

Matchem (also spelled Match’em, possibly after the jockey Match’em Timms), is a direct male tail line descendent of the Godolphin Arabian (or Godolphin Barb as he is also known) and along with Eclipse and Herod is considered one of the three 18th century stallions that produced the Thoroughbred sire-lines of modern times.

On the track, he proved himself good, if not outstanding. He contested a total of 12 races, winning 10 and gaining a reputation for being a thoroughly genuine competitor, durable and honest, who always gave of his best.

Matchem was bred by John Holme of Carlisle in Cumberland. He was sired by Cade (a son of the Godolphin Arabian), out of a bay mare by Partner. Like his grandsire, he was a small horse, but with good bone and an athletic build. He was dark bay in colour, but exhibited 2-3 bars of white hair at the base of his tail and is thought to have carried the rabicano gene as he went on to produce a number of roan offspring.

Matchem covered a few mares at Bywell during the 1758 season, but wasn’t retired from racing until the following year. Matchem was Champion Sire from 1772 to 1774 and in total, he would go on to sire 354 winners of 151,097 Euros. His hallmark was excellent temperament and durability, the ‘truth and daylight’ so desirable in breeding. Matchem lived to the ripe old age of 33 and died at Bywell on 21 February, 1781.

Matchem was sold to William Fenwick and as was the custom at the time, lived at his Bywell

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Saturday’s feature is named after the famous thoroughbred foundation stallion, Matchem (1748 – 1781) | Credit: Supplied

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POTJIE POWERHOUSES v

ENTER YOUR TEAM!

There are still a few berths open at just R250 a team for Saturday’s clash of the potjiekos powerhouses at Hollywoodbets Durbanville! 14 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

The Country Course becomes the ultimate battleground for potjiekos lovers on Saturday, as teams go head-to-head for R4 000 cash and a trophy — with an additional R1 000 ‘gees’ prize up for grabs for the team that brings the most energy, personality and spirit to the day. This is potjiekos with a competitive racy twist: good food, good company, big flavours and even bigger gees! Competition details: • • • • •

Setup: By 10h00 on Saturday 26 September Competition starts: 11h00 sharp - cook for 3 hours Entry fee: R250 per team Team size: Up to 6 people - limited to 12 teams To enter - the Sprint is interactive - please click here.

Round up your best six, choose your signature potjie and prepare to cook, create and compete.

Your team will get its own cooking station complete with: Charcoal, table & chairs and an umbrella All you need to bring is your potjie pot, cooking utensils, cutlery and crockery — and, of course, your secret recipe! But don’t just make your cooking station functional. Make it yours! Teams are encouraged to decorate their area, dress the part and bring the gees. And there’s a chance to share your creation with the crowd too: each team must prepare a minimum of 20 small tasters for members of the public to sample. Disposable tasting dishes and cutlery will be provided. Get your team together. Choose your potjie. Bring your recipe. Bring your gees. Please note: All participants must be 18 years or older. No outside drinks are permitted on the course. A bar will be available at the venue.

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Racing has a long history in South Africa | Credit: Supplied

SA RACING OPERATORS ANNOUNCE CHANGE – FOR THE BETTER!

While thoroughbred horse racing in South Africa dates back over 165 years, recent moves by Race Coast and 4Racing to align and synergise grassroots programming and related processes across the board on a national level are unprecedented and are set to facilitate momentum in a time of rebuilding, as the sport faces a range of dynamic challenges, both locally and globally. Crossing the line at the head of the field, that only that day had been reduced to a lonely four, the 5-year-old son of Real Steel secured his 12th career win, his fifth top-level victory and, most importantly, a berth in the Breeders’ Cup Classic, to be held at Lexington’s Keeneland Racecourse on 31 October. 16 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

Racing in South Africa is hosted by 4Racing in Gauteng and the Eastern Cape, while coastal operator Race Coast manages the sport in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

In a joint statement issued earlier today, the two operators announced sweeping changes to a variety of race-related processes, aimed at creating greater levels of uniformity and alignment across the industry. A positive step in the best interests of racing! A national reversion to programming traditional MR Handicapping styling of race categories, the standardisation of race conditions and rules and procedures governing eliminations, as well as uniformity in the criteria and procedures relating to the cancellation of races, are just some of the changes to be introduced on 1 November 2026. Included in the revised practices that have been announced are the standardised conditions for the reduction of stakes in cases of reduced fields, which will be applied consistently across the country. Supplementary entries, which are currently available in KZN and the Western Cape, will be introduced in Gauteng and the Eastern Cape for minor races, providing trainers with an

additional opportunity to enter horses after the initial entry stage. While the changes will be implemented nationally, consideration was also given to the unique position and equine demographics of the Eastern Cape Racing population. “Each region has its own unique characteristics, and Gqeberha in particular has a large population of lower-rated horses. They also ideally have to open entries two weeks before declarations as their jockey group is sourced, to a large degree, from out of the province. Therefore, more notice is needed to engage riders, with associated travel arrangements,” explained 4Racing’s Colin Gordon, who added that he was pleased with the spirit of cooperation between the operators. As is currently the case in the Western Cape, the barrier draws for minor races will be conducted at final field stage – and not at entry stage, as is the current process – for Gauteng, Eastern Cape and KZN fixtures.

23 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 17Herman Fairview – home of East Cape racing | Credit: Pauline

After being introduced just under seven years ago in KZN, and subsequently extended to the Cape, carded saddle-cloth numbers will now reflect the barrier draw of the relevant runner in all racing centres countrywide. In a shift from the traditional top-weight-down or alphabetical order in 4Racing regions in recent years, all South African races will reflect runners carded according to barrier positions, regardless of the allocated weights. While this not only means a standardisation of the South African racing product to an international audience, it also makes it easier for newcomers and racing fans in general to follow their selections from the saddle cloth number and colour, through to the starting stalls, where the number and colour will be clearly displayed. Reserve runners will no longer be allocated a barrier draw, but should there be a scratching, the reserve will automatically take up the barrier of the scratched horse that it replaces.

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Race Coast Chief Operating Officer Dean Sawarjith said that a more uniform approach to fundamental racing and programming protocols had received the buy-in of both operators, and was an important step in the right direction for all stakeholders. “Racing faces many challenges in the competition for the customer Rand, and simplifying an understanding of the mechanics for the racing public and all stakeholders, in fact, made sense. Having the racing operators on the same page and working together means less complications for all, in an environment where we encourage trainers to travel to optimise earnings opportunities for their owners. The benefits to the broader SA racing industry must always be our collective first consideration,” added Sawarjith. The changes are well timed with imminent stakes increases on the horizon for both 4Racing and Race Coast.

For illustration only – Flower Island winning at Turffontein | Credit: JC Photos

Race Coast recently announced a significant increased investment across both the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal through enhanced stakes that will benefit participants throughout the industry. Unlike previous years, the end of the SA Champions Season did not herald a reversion back to ‘out-of-season’ purses. The current stakes structure and Race Coast Incentive Scheme (RCIS) will remain in place until 31 October and a new stakes structure will take effect on 1 November, coinciding with the start of the Cape Summer Festival of Racing.

4Racing also announced a substantial increase in stakes across both the Eastern Cape and Highveld regions, as part of a renewed investment in the growth and sustainability of horse racing in South Africa. This significant out-of-cycle increase, to be applied until end February 2027, totals R22 million, with the Eastern Cape stakes pot increase effective 1 October, and the Highveld programme boosted from 1 November.

Detailed information regarding all the changes and implementations will be published on www.sahorseracing.co.za on Monday, 21 RCIS falls away on the same date; however, it September 2026. is important to note that every Rand has been redirected to the stakes pot. • Media release published jointly by 4Racing and Race Coast on Monday Race Coast has boosted their combined 21 September 2026 stakes investment to R270 million, an increase of 20% on the past year.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 19 For illustration only – Hollywoodbets Greyville night racing23 action | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

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Image for illustration only and with Andrew Fortune’s permission Credit: Chase Liebenberg

JOCKEYS WHEN RESEARCH BECOMES RESPONSIBILITY

We have listened to jockeys. We have learned from their experiences. Now what? Michele Wing (MSc, Brunel University London) suggests that research can tell us a great deal about a population. It can illuminate experiences that might otherwise remain unseen, identify patterns, expose gaps and give voice to people whose experiences are rarely heard beyond their immediate environment. But research is not the end of the conversation. It is the beginning.

For those of us who have spent time listening to jockeys, that distinction matters. When someone shares their experience, they are not simply contributing data. They are trusting someone with a part of their story. That creates a responsibility that extends beyond the study itself. My recent research into the perceived stressors experienced by South African jockeys began with 10 jockeys who were willing to talk openly about their lives and careers.

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What emerged was a picture of an occupation in which physical, psychological, occupational and career pressures are closely interconnected. The research has now moved beyond the academic environment. It has informed a series of articles that are currently exploring aspects of jockey life that are seldom visible to the racing public, and those articles have, in turn, opened conversations of their own. Perhaps the most important question now is: what do we do with what we know? That question has recently brought together four people with quite different, but complementary, experience in jockey research, development, health and wellbeing.

Tarryn Mason, of the South African Jockey Academy, and dietician and researcher Kathy Krog have already walked this road. In 2016 they co-developed the South African Jockey and Equestrian Research Institute (SAJERI), which facilitated postgraduate research into areas including nutrition and energy availability, weight management, physiological demands, heart-rate variability, concussion, injury and illness, hydration, bone health and fitness. The programme lost momentum when funding came to an end around 2019.

Image for illustration only – the end is only the beginning | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

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Image for illustration only – jockeys at work | Credit: Chase Liebenberg

Now there is an opportunity to revisit that work in the context of what has been learned since, while reconnecting it with the international research and practitioner community.

the needs of jockeys may have changed, and where research and practical support might intersect. There is also an international dimension.

Joining Tarryn and Kathy are Australian practitioner Bill Riddiford, whose work includes the broader development of jockeys across their careers, and Michele Wing, whose research has recently explored the lived experiences of South African jockeys. There is no grand blueprint sitting on the table. And perhaps that is precisely what makes the conversation worthwhile. The group has committed to meeting regularly to look at what has already been done, what has been learned, where the gaps are, how

Bill’s work in Australia and the connections Tarryn and Bill have developed through the international jockey welfare community provide an opportunity for South Africa both to learn from other racing jurisdictions and, equally importantly, to contribute our own knowledge and experience. A longer-term possibility is the development of a Centre of Excellence around jockey research, health, wellbeing, performance and development at SAJA. But the physical centre need not precede the work. The work can begin with people, knowledge and a willingness to ask better questions. 23 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 25

That, ultimately, is what this is about. Research can illuminate a situation, but its value should not end when the paper is published. Knowledge has greater meaning when it is translated into action that can support, improve and uplift the lives of the people the research sought to understand. Otherwise, even valuable research can become another paper collecting dust on a shelf. For jockeys, there is perhaps an even more important message. We heard you. We see you. And what you told us matters. The responsibility now is to see what can be done with it.

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This is not another initiative being launched with a long list of promises. There is no finished model to unveil. There is simply a small group of people who have started talking, listening, connecting knowledge and committing to keep the conversation moving towards meaningful action for jockeys. The wider racing community has a place in that conversation too. The more openly we talk about jockey welfare as part of racing – not only when something goes wrong, but as an ordinary part of the sport – the greater the opportunity to understand what is needed and, ultimately, to influence what becomes possible. The conversation has started. The work has begun. What matters now is where we take it.

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Calla Lagoon (GB) – a Charity Mile prospect | Credit: JC Photos

PART 2 – FROM THE

TRAINERS’ MOUTHS In the latest issue of Off The Record, we continue the check-ins with trainers likely to have feature runners during the Gauteng spring/summer season this week, starting at Randjesfontein with Stuart Pettigrew, who is back on song after a few setbacks and looks well placed for a successful term. Stuart Pettigrew’s three imports, Mission To Mars (Sea The Stars – IRE), Calla Lagoon (New Bay – GB) and The Equator (Galileo – IRE), also give the yard a potentially strong hand going into the autumn features of 2027. For now, though, the trainer says it’s a step-by-step process. 28 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

“I like my promising runners to take the next step up, to show their worth on the racetrack with steady improvement. Mission To Mars has won two in a row, we’re going for a third at the Vaal on Thursday and he’s handily rated at 94. (Mission To Mars finished third, beaten 2.0-lengths by Best Candidate)

“When we had Tyson (Silvino) racing in 2004, he came through a C-division handicap win in September, followed by a B-division win in October, and then won the Gr3 Victory Moon Stakes ahead of his success in the Gr1 (then Gommagomma) Summer Cup. He got better with every run, showed his mettle along the way and we went confidently into the big race for an easy win. “Before I make any predictions, I’m going to let Mission To Mars and Calla Lagoon show me what the next steps are to take with them, whether they are good enough to go for the Betway Summer Cup. These English horses enjoy the sting out of the ground, so some rain ahead of the big races will suit them.

“Calla Lagoon is a potential Gr2 Allied Steelrode Onamission Charity Mile candidate. He arrived as a one-time winner on a 104-rating and is now a 107, so he’s not easy to place. Mission To Mars could go via the Gr3 Betway Victory Moon Stakes. Calla Lagoon placed over 2000m and 2100m in the UK, so he won’t necessarily be limited to 1600m. We’ll see how he progresses over the next few weeks. They’re both sound, healthy horses, lovely to work with. “The Equator has already raced at the highest levels and hasn’t been disgraced. He ran fifth in last year’s Summer Cup off a merit rating of 117, but his current 118 is too high and, as it stands, he will be giving weight to most. That limits his opportunities.”

Reece’s Wish – three wins from eight starts | Credit: JC Photos

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Pettigrew mentioned two four-year-old fillies he believes could be competitive this summer. Scarlet O’Hara (Red Ray) has moved steadily through the ranks with four wins from just nine starts, and Into Dancing (Ideal World) is four from 12. Both are improving with maturity and have lots of stamina. “We’ll be looking at races like the Listed Yellowwood Handicap over 1800m, the Listed Summer Pudding over 1600m and the Listed War Of Athena over 1800m.” The partnership of sisters Candice and Tammy Dawson, with five winners from just 16 runners after six weeks of the 2026/7 season, will have to do without their feature contenders Pioneer Square (sold to Mauritius) and Minogue (retired), but they have others to carry the banner. A number of their older runners are certain to get into the mix, starting with owner Johnno Finlayson’s smart four-year-old Chronicle King (Vercingetorix), a Grade 2 winner at two and second to Errrol Flynn in the Gr3

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Sea Cottage Stakes at the end of the 2025/6 season in July. Candice Dawson commented: “Chronicle King has done well for us and he is being aimed at the Charity Mile. We’ll start him off in the Gr2 Joburg Spring Challenge.” Mary Slack’s flashy chestnut filly Warm Reception (Fire Away) is versatile with four wins from nine starts – and successful over1200m, 1400m and 1600m. “She is a Joburg Spring Fillies and Mares Challenge prospect, but we’ll also be looking at the sprint features since she is unbeaten over 1200m,” said Candice. The Dawson sisters have two other, sparingly raced four-year-old fillies, both by champion stallion Vercingetorix, who have already shown that they can compete for big prizes. •

There’s more… Click on the image below to read all the trainers’ insights:

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RIDGEMONT MACHINE

IS FIRING v

Judged on the manner in which she won an 1800m Pinnacle Stakes at Turffontein on Saturday, Rafeef ’s daughter Drumnadrochit may just be a monster of a racehorse in the making.

| 23 SEPTEMBER 2026 to a facile victory | Credit: JC Photos Callan34 Murray steers Drumnadrochit

The 4yo machine won by an astonishing 11,25 lengths with De Kock Racing reporting that she’s a striking specimen who has always had class and classic promise. Drumnadrochit is only now coming into her own after being given an extended break through winter. Callan Murray opined: “Drumnadrochit ran in some good races as a three-year-old, and she’s finally filled into her frame. She has a good head on her which has helped, but now she has the body to match.” It’s easy to get carried away when they win like this, but it wasn’t just a soft-field romp. The average merit rating of the race was 100 and there were a few hard-knocking older geldings in the small field – enough to convince De Kock Racing that Drumnadrochit has now announced herself a 2026 Betway Summer Cup prospect. Mathew de Kock said: “We’re looking at the Listed Yellowwood Handicap next, or perhaps even the Allied Steelrode Onamission Charity Mile, a prep that may lead into the Betway Summer Cup. Those races are on the same day, so we’ll choose between them.” Drumnadrochit is out of the young Dynasty-mare Kelpie, who was twice placed in the Gr1 Majorca Stakes and well on her way to valuable broodmare status. Her other running foal so far is Sparrow Man, who won at his second start and ran a smart second at his third outing in a a handicap at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Monday. Drumnadrochit races for Ridgemont in partnership with Devin Heffer, and both are excited with what they saw and looking forward to the rest of her campaign this summer. Drumnadrochit’s Gr1 Computaform Sprint winning sire Rafeef has made a flying start to the 2026-2027 season. The blue-blooded son of Redoute’s Choice has already been responsible for 25 this season - the same number as both Vercingetorix and Master Of My Fate.

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The champion Rafeef | Credit: Supplied

Rafeef enjoyed a bang up week last week, supplying winners at Turffontein, Hollywoodbets Greyville and Hollywoodbets Durbanville. The Ridgemont resident, at the time of writing, is currently third on the General Sires premiership, with his runners having earned more than R2,4 million thus far. His runners in 2026-2027 also include Enchanting Choice and Heliotrope, the 1-3 finishers in the Listed Jockey Club Stakes. Rafeef, whose unbeaten son Haute Couture was crowned Equus Champion 2YO Colt for 2025-2026, looks poised for a big season ahead. 36 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

Besides the firepower of the likes of Drumnadrochit, Haute Couture, Royal Tiara, Esteemed, and Flower Island (among many others) as potential flagbearers, Rafeef also has some exceptionally well bred, unraced horses who could well be anything. The smashing athlete could also make his presence felt this season as a sire of sires, with his Gr1 Computaform Sprint winning son Master Archie set to be represented by his first runners in 2026-2027. However, he is not the only Ridgemont stallion who appears on course for a big season.

Brilliant miler Canford Cliffs continues to come up with stakes winners, season in and season out. Last term, the five time Grade 1 winner supplied the likes of Jazz Cafe (Lucky Fish Gr3 Winter Fillies Stakes), Tag And Release (Gr3 Winter Nursery), and Miami Mountain (TAB Gr3 National Currency Sprint). Canford Cliffs is as versatile a sire as they come, with his star now exported daughter Direct Hit landing the Gr1 Allan Robertson Fillies Championship over 1200m and Jazz Cafe running third in the World Pool Gr3 Gold Cup over 3200m. Blue-blooded Triple Crown winner Malmoos, South Africa’s Leading First Season Sire of 2025-2026, is another Ridgemont resident with an exciting season ahead of him. The close relative of prominent sires Erik The Red and Master Of My Fate had nine first crop two-year-old winners, despite Malmoos having never himself raced at two. His first crop is headed by exciting unbeaten Gr2 winner Marchland.

Gr3 Langerman runner-up, Pay The Palace. Real Gone Kid, whose legendary sire Snitzel was posthumously named Australia’s Champion Sire for a fifth time last season, ended the 2025-2026 season as South Africa’s joint Leading First Season Sire by winners, equalling Malmoos’ tally of nine. The son of champion In The Fast Lane thus had more two-year-old winners in 2025-2026 than the likes of Fire Away, Buffalo Bill Cody, Act Of War, and Legislate. Ridgemont have two exciting prospects in the wings, both having entered the illustrious Robertson stallion barn in 2024 and with their first yearlings expected in 2027. Thunderstruck continues another chapter in the Rafeef sire-of-sires fairytale and the dual Grade 1 winner and former Highveld Champion Sprinter is proving as popular as his big-hitting Dad. World-class miler and US Grade 1 winner Hit The Road (USA) is a son of internationally acclaimed sire More Than Ready.

Singspiel’s Gr1 winning son Potala Palace continues to come up with smart looking winners.

The beautifully-bred, tough and durable miler with a dazzling turn of foot is an international Grade 1 star and a multiple stakes winner.

A proven source of stakes horses, headed by Gr1 South African Fillies Sprint winner Singforafa, Potala Palace enjoyed a double at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth recently when his daughter Easy Money and son Palace Gift won their respective races. His offspring also include last season’s Listed Yellowwood Handicap winner Twostep Queen and 2025

The son of More Than Ready retired from racing in 2023 and counts the Grade 1 Frank E Kilroe at Santa Anita amongst his six victories. The future is bright!

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Debbie Marshall - ready to love your champ | Credit: Supplied

GIVE YOUR STAR v

A CHAMPION

BREAK

In May 2025, South African thoroughbred breeding marked the end of an era when Avontuur Estate officially closed the stud operations of a farm that had flourished since the late 1980’s. 38 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

Started in 1984 by the late Tony Taberer, Avontuur, a spectacular piece of paradise nestled against the mountains between Stellenbosch and Somerset West, developed over the years into an award-winning nursery, popularly tagged ‘the home of fine wines and fast horses’. Fast forward to 2026, the landscape that was once ruled over by the likes of Dominion Royale, Var and Oratorio, is now home to lifetime horsewoman Debbie Marshall’s Equinality Stable Yard. “It’s where horses are given the space, care and understanding to simply be horses,” smiles Debbie as she explains her plans to the Sporting Post to offer a spelling and resting facility for racehorses in the glorious surroundings, the beauty and serenity of which are largely unmatched in the province. Boasting a veritable lifetime dedicated to understanding, developing and caring for these beautiful creatures, Debbie Marshall’s relationship with horses began at the age of four. By twelve, she was seeking out the more challenging horses and ponies at her local riding school, riding and working with those that needed additional time and experience after school. Debbie established her first farm, Velvet Stud Farm. In those early years, the emphasis was less on breeding and more on working with horses and providing a home where they could be developed, rested and prepared. Velvet Stud Farm was also used for the spelling of numerous racehorses, including those sent by trainer Bertie Sage, who at

the time was training for international golfing legend, and leading owner and breeder, Gary Player. This provided Debbie with early and invaluable experience in caring for racehorses during their time away from active training, understanding their individual needs, while giving them the time and environment required to recover and return to work. Her passion for quality horses subsequently led her into the world of warmblood breeding. In 1995 she purchased the exceptional young stallion De Beauvoir Aquaris, and what began as a horse bought to ride, developed into a highly successful breeding programme. Her broodmare collection grew, producing many beautiful foals, including a colt from the stallion’s first season who was awarded Reserve Warmblood Horse at the annual Warmblood sales in Grahamstown and went on to enjoy a successful competitive career, including as Horse of the Year. Debbie has also been deeply involved in competitive equestrian sport. She developed her dressage judging to become a recognised judge and, after moving to the Western Cape, was regularly called upon to judge dressage and other equestrian competitions. But it is the accumulated experience of a lifetime spent with horses — rather than any single discipline or qualification — that defines Debbie’s approach. Having worked with thousands of horses in an extraordinary range of circumstances, including rehabilitation and rescue, she has developed a remarkable ability to observe and understand the individual horse. 23 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 39

Her philosophy is simple - first the horse, then the rider. At Equinality, this philosophy extends to every aspect of care. Physical wellbeing, mental wellbeing, emotional wellbeing, movement, social

contact and appropriate living conditions are considered as parts of the whole horse, rather than in isolation. When Debbie returned to operating a commercial livery yard, the intention was not simply to provide somewhere for horses to be kept.

Beautiful Avontuur | Credit: Supplied

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It was to create an environment where her decades of knowledge could benefit both horses and their owners. “For racehorses, spelling is an important part of the horse’s life. Time away from racing does not have to mean simply putting a horse in a stable and waiting for the next preparation,” she enthuses, as she goes on to explain that at Equinality Stable Yard, horses can experience a lifestyle that places their natural, physical, and social needs at the centre of their time away from training.

understanding that these things are all part of the picture is vital. Equinality is built around a belief that a horse’s wellbeing is not something added to good horsemanship. It is the very foundation of it,” she says with proud endorsement. With decades of experience behind her, Debbie Marshall brings to Equinality an unusual combination of practical horsemanship, competition experience, breeding knowledge, judging experience and, above all, an enduring respect for the horse.

“Spacious paddocks, movement, companionship and careful observation provide an environment in which horses can decompress, recover and simply be horses. The aim is not to impose a particular training system. It is to understand the horse in front of us and provide the care and environment appropriate to that individual,” she adds.

So something to look forward to - nipping out on a Sunday for lunch at Avontuur, followed by a visit to your champion enjoying some rest ‘n relaxation, could become an enjoyable add-on for local owners.

She explains that for owners entrusting a racehorse to Equinality for spelling, means having the reassurance of experienced eyes observing the horse every day.

Contact details of Equinality Stable Yard:

We wish Debbie the very best with her new venture.

Facebook: Equinality - Equine Lifestyle Livery Email: equinality@gmail.com Phone: 082 490 3984

“Noticing changes in condition, behaviour, movement and temperament, and

Serenity! | Credit: Supplied

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Bangkok Magic wins easily under Keagan de Melo as runner-up Blue Steel (Athandiwe Mgudlwa) tries hard down the inside Credit: Candiese Lenferna

SON OF WILLOW MAGIC

LOOKS DECENT

Justin Snaith’s smart Hollywoodbets Greyville Sunday winner Bangkok Magic will be raiding Johannesburg from Summerveld and thus won’t be seen down in the Cape during the summer season.

That was the word from the champion yard after the 3yo son of the sadly under-utilised Dubawi Gr1 winning stallion Willow Magic skipped clear in the Lucky Fish Magic Mile Class 4 contest run over 1400m to register his third victory from just five starts to elevate his earnings to just under the R300 000 marker. Raced by Cape-based Greg and Gina Bortz, Bangkok Magic started a well-supported 14-10 favourite under Keagan de Melo to win his first start beyond 1200m. Bangkok Magic beat Candice’s Bass’ wellbacked pacesetter Blue Steel (8’s to 33-10) an extending 1,10 lengths in a time of 82,43 secs. The rescheduling of the original Friday fixture to the polytrack robbed the connections of a chance to test the colt properly on turf, but Keagan de Melo is clearly impressed, and he could be just about anything in the Highveld features.

Jonathan Snaith told the Sporting Post that the Clifton Stud-bred colt was ‘a spectacular yearling’. “He was purchased for R450 000 at the BSA KZN Yearling Sale and was always coming home with us! Gina and Greg Bortz own his sister Mai Sensation (Rafeef), and have subsequently also purchased Bangkok Magic’s mother, Mai Tai, a daughter of champion sire, Vercingetorix,” recalled Snaith who also observed that the winner was the only Willow Magic offspring that they have ever bid on. Willow Magic has apparently relocated to Martini Racing in Parys. The Sporting Post is endeavouring to determine what the plans are for the sire who got very limited support during his time in KZN. Darryl Moore saddled two winners on the afternoon, while Sean Veale rode a double. Sporting Post-sponsored jockeys rode 50% of the card, and besides Veale’s double, Tristan Godden and Athandiwe Mgudlwa also weighed in with a winner apiece.

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Sean Veale has Capsaicin in command | Credit: Candiese Lenferna

PARTLY CARRIED OVER

PICK 6 ON A TRICKY DAY Full marks to all KZN stakeholders for wrapping up two fixtures that looked in the balance late last week as Mother Nature battered the holiday province. 46 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

He was always in command and although The Hollywoodbets Narina Trogon ran on strongly from midfield in Scottsville racemeeting the closing stages of the race, he went on to score without any anxious moments by three originally scheduled for quarters. A full field of sixteen went to post for the Sunday 20 September opening Gallop TV Maiden Plate over went ahead on Monday 1200m and in what proved to be the quicker of the two maiden events over the distance, on a soft surface, with a the Doug Campbell-trained HADRIAN’S WALL caused a major upset. few bomb results! In fact, Freely available at 33/1 in this his seventh no favourites arrived, start, the 4yo son of Skitt Skizzle broke well, soon a length and a half clear, had the and as a result over 94% and field well strung out. of the Pick Six pool was He kept on determinedly under a strong ride from Chad Little and although the always carried forward. Very interestingly, with a slight tail wind and the going soft, four of the eight races on the afternoon were won by the pacemaker. Two were won by the horse racing second, and one by the horse racing third. The other winner raced eighth, but in a tightly bunched field he was never more than two and a half lengths off the leader! It will come as no surprise then to learn that the bill-topping Form Guide www.galloptv.co.za B Stakes over 1600m was won by the speedy front runner CAPSAICIN. Registering his fifth career victory from 22 starts here, the son of Canford Cliffs was soon in his favourite position at the head of affairs and raced two and a half lengths clear for most of the journey.

handy 3yo Roxbury Park (5/2 out to 17/2) tried his best to make a race of it, he never relinquished an inch of his advantage. Track Conditions: Going: Penetrometer: Rain:

Soft (both tracks) 28 (straight) – 29 (bend) Last 24 hours 3mm – Last 7 days 84,5mm

Irrigation:

Last 7 days Nil

False Rail:

Wind:

10-15km/h Easterly tail wind

Course Variant:

0,22s fast (straight) – 0,07s fast (bend)

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They ran four races over 1200m in total and somewhat surprisingly just 6/10th of a second covered all four winners. The Join Vibe! www.socialsquad.co.za Class 4 was the quickest of these and here a major upset was to be had when the 66/1 shot FOLLOW YOUR HEART gained his second win. In what was the seventh race on the card the field was always very tightly bunched and although the son of Master Of My Fate raced eighth, he was never more than two and a half lengths off the pace. He was ridden to lead as they approached the 200m marker and despite shifting around below the distance, he went on to score comfortably by just over a length.

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The Hollywoodbets Bright Future Middle Stakes over 1000m brought the meeting to a close and here the combination of Kelly Mitchley and Muzi Yeni bagged their second winner on the card when the heavily supported ROMAN AGENT did the business. Backed all the way into 7/2 second favourite from 8/1, the grey son of Vercingetorix didn’t get the best of the start, but despite that he was soon nicely positioned in second just a half-length off the pace. He quickly asserted his authority when given rein 150m out and won well by a length and a quarter from the 25/1 shot Captain’s Christy. Fastest Times: 1200m (4) Follow Your Heart 1600m (3) Capsaicin 400-finish Licence To Thrill

69,17 96,51 22,93

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Tin Pan Alley – title defence possible Credit: JC Photos

TA R R Y H A S E Y E O N

SPRING CHALLENGE AGAIN

4Racing has received a bumper entry for the first Gr2 double feature fixture of the new season. The R550 000 Betway Gr2 Joburg Spring Challenge and the R450 000 Betway Gr2 Joburg Spring F&M Challenge will be run at Turffontein on 3 October. Last year’s renewal was a red-letter day for trainer Sean Tarry, who sent out both winners of the Gr2 Betway Joburg Spring Challenge features. The spotlight first fell on Moutonshoek-bred Tin Pan Alley (The United States), who produced a smart performance to land the Gr2 Betway Joburg Spring Challenge. Ridden by Malesela Katjedi for owners the Wernars Family and D Chinsammy, the R500 000 August 2YO Sale graduate impressed with a strong finish to secure his first graded stakes success, after finishing second to the talented Jan Van Goyen in his prior start, the Gr1 World Pool Moment Of The Day Premiers Champion Stakes.

Tin Pan Alley went on to better things since that victory, including a LONGINES World’s highest rated horses ranking and returns to defend his title – although widely drawn. Callmegetrix (Vercingetorix – Clarion Call by Kabool) kicked off her 2025/26 season in style with a victory in the Gr2 Betway Joburg Spring F & M Challenge, giving Tarry a memorable feature double on the day. Bred and raced by Mario Ferreira of Rathmor Stud, the R450,000 National Yearling Sale graduate registered her sixth career win in the process under a well-judged ride by Luyolo Mxothwa, securing a stable exacta in the process. Please note supplementary entries close at 09h00 on Friday 25 September. Declarations close at 11h00 on Tuesday 29 September

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Anotherdanceforme (Richard Fourie) brings it home for Alan Greeff as the gallant Lanciafiamme (Muzi Yeni) pops his head into the frame | Credit: Pauline Herman v

VARSFONTEIN-BRED CHAMPION

IS TOP-CLASS!

Peter Moor’s recent Eastern Cape Racing dual award winner Anotherdanceforme maintained her impeccable home record with her eleventh victory, and first against older males, when scoring an emphatic victory in the R175 000 Betway Friendly City Stakes at a wet Fairview on Friday.

Awarded the Champion 3yo Filly and Champion Polytrack Filly/Mare trophy at the recent regional awards, Anotherdanceforme (5-10) has few peers on home ground and was bounced clear by regular pilot Richard Fourie to score a comfortable victory in a time of 106,82 secs for the all-weather 1800m. Cliffie Miller’s Lanciafiamme (5-1) showed cheek, a further 1,25 lengths back in second, with Zatara Magic (15-4 staying on for third.

She is by Master Of My Fate (Jet Master) out of the What A Winter mare Destiny Dancer and has now won 12 races from 14 starts for stakes of R1 424 157.

On the day, Alan Greeff saddled four winners, with Richard Fourie, Craig Zackey and Chase Maujean sharing the riding accolades with a double apiece. Sharon Kotzen saddled two winners, while the upset of the afternoon was provided by trainer Emmanuel Kacnis’ Bandmaster (16-1) who won the seventh, an MR 66 Handicap, under Stallone Naidoo. The next Fairview racemeeting is on Friday 25 September on the poly, the second leg of the Nelson Mandela Bay Poly Challenge is the feature event on this card.

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Callan Murray steers One Eye On Dubai to an easy win Credit: JC Photos

EYES TURN AS NZ-BRED GALLOPER

RUNS AWAY FROM FIELD One Eye On Dubai (NZ) beat absolutely nothing of note in his 8,50-length drubbing of a small field in the fifth race run over 2000m at the Vaal on Tuesday, but in time that may prove wholly irrelevant. De Kock Racing report that there was something about the purposeful way One Eye On Dubai galloped around the country track that would have had some racing fans hitting the ‘replay’ button. His rivals were off the bit before jockey Callan Murray had flexed a muscle, and if punters’ notebooks actually exist, his name will be in most of them by now. 64 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

“This horse seems to stay very well and looks to have a future over ground. It’s exciting for the team,” Murray said. Mat de Kock said that One Eye On Dubai wasn’t setting the work track at Randjesfontein alight before his 1200m debut in August, but that he has made steady improvement since.

He commented: “It’s nice to see One Eye On Dubai deliver on the racetrack. He is a nice, young and progressive stayer. Well done to the whole Hollywood Racing team. Craig Ramsay bought him in New Zealand so he’s come a helluva long way to South Africa. “It’s nice to be a recipient of such well-bred horses and thank you to everyone who puts so much time money and patience into it. Things are looking like paying off so we’re all very happy.”

One Eye On Dubai is by 2016 Cartier European Three-Year-old colt of the year, Almanzor, out of a mare by Exceed and Excel. Devin Heffer of Hollywood Racing noted: “One Eye On Dubai was named by Mike de Kock in consideration of our older runner One Eye on Vegas, and after we’d decided to relaunch in Dubai.”

HOLLYWOOD RACING – 900 WINNER INCENTIVE

After five frustrating seconds at Hollywoodbets Scottsville this past Monday, SA Champion owners Hollywood Racing are currently on 897 lifetime winners after One Eye On Dubai’s facile victory at the Vaal on Tuesday. As is tradition with their milestone moments, Hollywood Racing is offering cash incentives for the stakeholders in their 900th winner. • R10 000 - Winning Trainer • R10 000 - Winning Jockey • R2 500 - Winning Groom

racing

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JAPANESE STAR CELEBRATES v

BELMONT PARK OPENING

On the day Belmont Park opened its doors after a threeyear, $555 million facelift, Japanese superstar Forever Young delivered a performance worthy of the gleaming new venue – even if his trainer wasn’t entirely pleased. 68 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

Forever Young shows the way | Credit: America’s Best Racing (FB)

With an indisputable show of force, Forever Young romped to victory in the $1-million, 2000m Gr1 Jockey Club Gold Cup on Friday 18 September. Returning to the track for the first time since his second in the Dubai World Cup at the end of March, Forever Young easily topped the three other Gold Cup participants whose connections were bold enough to take him on. Japan’s star proved not only the highlight of the day, but proof as well that world-class racing was to be had at the newly renovated venue, celebrating its first day up and running after a 3-year hiatus. Crossing the line at the head of the field, that only that day had been reduced to a lonely four, the 5-year-old son of Real Steel secured his 12th career win, his fifth toplevel victory and, most importantly, a berth in the Breeders’ Cup Classic, to be held at Lexington’s Keeneland Racecourse on 31 October. Forever Young, running under the lucky No. 7, broke from the No. 4 gate and came away in smooth order. Traveling under regular partner Ryusei Sakai, Forever Young held steady patiently amid a slow pace in second position a handful of lengths behind leader Phileas Fogg, then closed to within a length of the top. The other two runners, the Gr1 winner Baeza, who had been slow away, and Stars and Stripes, remained a good 10 lengths behind. Just before the quarter pole, Sakai asked for more and Forever Young promptly answered, moving into the lead on the outside and rounding wide on the turn home.

From there, without a change of leads, the 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic champion opened up and sailed triumphantly over the finish line 3 1/4 lengths ahead of runnerup Stars and Stripes, who had caught a flagging Phileas Fogg and advanced up the rail. Stars and Stripes, however, was no match for Forever Young, who continued on with apparent ease despite not having changed leads and crossed the line in first in a time of 2 minutes 1.23 seconds. He improved his career record to 12-1-3 from 16 outings and, with the victory, added the first-place prize of $555,000 (about 87 million yen) to earnings that now tops 5 billion yen. Unlike last year, where the Susumu Fujitaowned bay prepped back home in Japan a month before the Breeders’ Cup, this year trainer Yoshito Yahagi (after a visit to Belmont in August) flew Forever Young to the States more than 7 weeks ahead of the big event. Forever Young cleared quarantine on 10 September and made his first appearance at Belmont five days later. “Above all, I am very happy to have seen him win on this historic day, the reopening of the venue,” trainer Yoshito Yahagi said with his usual modesty and a nod to his American hosts. Though Yahagi had said pre-race that Forever Young was going to the gate at “90 percent,” post-race, he changed his assessment. “Considering that he was returning from a spell, he wasn’t at his best,” Yahagi admitted. “I think fitness-wise, he was closer to 80 percent, and I’d like to see his lungs and other improvement. And I do aim to see him improve before the Breeders’ Cup Classic.” 23 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 69

Rider Sakai noted, “He had a good response at the top of the stretch because of the slow pace. He’s fine with a slow pace, but I would like to have a quicker pace for the Breeders’ Cup.” Though he easily topped the Gold Cup field, Forever Young’s performance did bring criticism from some who called it ‘workmanlike’ and overall lacking in flare. Some voiced concern at his failure to change leads, others saw it as more of a sign of boredom, or that, having gone so far wide, the horse had felt a bit lost. In any case, back racing after more than 5 months off, Forever Young accomplished what was asked of him. Though none of his wins at home have ranked among Japan’s biggest tests of strength, Forever Young has been a bright star abroad, securing top competitions on two other continents and coming frustratingly close on a third. He is a two-time winner of the Grade 1 Saudi Cup in Saudi Arabia and,

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last year, clinched the Breeders’ Cup Classic in the U.S. He finished second in this year’s Dubai World Cup, missing the win by a length. His 2024 third place in America’s iconic Kentucky Derby stands as Japan’s best score from 12 horses fielded over the last 31 years and he was recognized as Japan’s Horse of the Year Award for 2025. Forever Young now aims to join Tiznow as the only back-to-back Breeders’ Cup Classic winners. Forever Young will spend the next month at Belmont training up to the race before shipping to Keeneland in October. A sold-out crowd of 6 000 – the facility’s current capacity, as some areas are not expected to open until early 2027 – was on hand for a celebratory atmosphere as the New York Racing Association showed off the culmination of three years and more than a half-billion dollars’ worth of work.

Just before the return day first race | Credit: Maureen Ryan Baringer

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William Buick (blue cap) gets Nabati home ahead of Jolivette (Colin Keane) in a thrilling finish to the Newbury feature | Credit: Godolphin

WILLIAM BUICK

PREVAILS IN A THRILLER

Nabati enjoyed a return to six furlongs and quick conditions as he collared Jolivette in the final strides of the Gr2 Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury on Saturday. The Night Of Thunder colt, who had posted wins in similar conditions at Yarmouth and Newmarket, was making a quick return to action after coming home third on his first try at seven furlongs in the Listed Flying Scotsman Stakes at Doncaster eight days earlier. After breaking slowly, Nabati raced in seventh of the eight runners early on before taking closer order towards the stands’ side after the first quarter-mile. Nabati responded for pressure to press Jolivette entering the final furlong, with Arapaho Gold and Revels also mounting their challenges to the long-time leader.

juvenile finding more under William Buick for a short-head verdict. Charlie Appleby said: “Dropping back to six furlongs helped Nabati and they went a nice, sensible gallop. He stuck at it well and it was a good ride from William. I would imagine that we might have a look at the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint for him next.” William Buick added: “We thought we would ride Nabati slightly more forward today but he came out of the stalls a little awkward, so we ended up where we were. He was in a good rhythm and I got after him a bit earlier as he needed to fight, which he did. “The action unfolded away from him at Doncaster, so he probably didn’t have a hard race as a consequence. It was a brave call from Charlie to run him back here and the horse has repaid him.”

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Angel Capital ridden by Ben Melham wins the Sportsbet Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield Credit: Inglis

TOP-CLASS

VICTORY FOR SON OF

HARRY ANGEL Angel Capital (Harry Angel) silenced his doubters and likely confirmed his place on the stallion roster at Yulong at the end of his career with a scintillating victory in Saturday’s Gr1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield. 78 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

The 5YO entire settled midfield for jockey Ben Melham and when asked for an effort, exploded down the Caulfield home straight to claim his first Gr1 success in a time of 1:21.29, a whisker outside the track record held by Exceed And Excel. Angel Capital led in a Gr1 quinella for Inglis graduates, defeating Sepals, himself the winner of the race 12 months ago. Now a six-time winner of more than A$2.9m, the David Peacock-bred Angel Capital is trained by Chris Waller and raced by Yulong, who bought the entire off the initial ownership group featuring Upper Bloodstock and Gregory Ho, who together purchased him from the Mill Park Stud draft for A$400,000 at the Premier Yearling Sale. Since winning his maiden on debut as a 2YO, Angel Capital has raced exclusively at Stakes level, with today’s victory his fifth black type win and he also has three Gr1 placings and a Gr2 placing on his resume.

“At long last!’’ breeder Peacock, who was also celebrating his 80th birthday today, said. “I was saying my prayers for him and when he got to the home turn I was like ‘C’mon mate, you can do it, you can do it.’ I was screaming at the TV, I was really thrilled because he’s tried so hard to win his Group 1 and I was so proud today, he won so well and they don’t give away Group 1s, they’re bloody hard to win. “The colt went to the Inglis Premier Sale in the Mill Park draft – who do a wonderful job with all of my horses – and I was happy to retain him if he didn’t sell for the right price but when he hit $400,000 I was happy to let him go and what a wonderful journey it’s been to watch. “We’ve still got the mare [Bahamas]. She’s a lovely mare, she just foaled down a lovely City of Troy colt, we’re very pleased with him and this year she’s going back to Harry Angel for the first time since Angel Capital.’’ Earlier on the Caulfield program Icelady (Maurice) broke her maiden in the best way possible, leading all the way to win the Gr2 Thousand Guineas Prelude. The 3YO filly – bred by Arrowfield – had raced four times prior to today and finished runner-up on three occasions, including at Gr3 level. But she is now not only not a maiden, but a fourth favourite for the Gr1 Thousand Guineas, to be run on October 17. Trainer Ciaron Maher teamed up with Thompson Creek Thoroughbreds to buy Icelady for A$130 000 at the Premier Yearling Sale, where she was offered by Glenn Lee Thoroughbreds. 23 SEPTEMBER 2026 | 79

DANON v

SCORPION

(JPN)

LO R D K A N A LOA ( J P N ) X L E X I E LO U (C A N ) BY S L I G O B AY B ay C o l t | D O B 2 0 1 9 FOR

2026

NEW

Gr1 placed at 2, Gr1 winner at 3. By a Champion Racehorse, Champion Freshman sire and sire of Champions. Dam a multiple Champion, Horse Of The Year and recently inducted into Canadian Hall Of Fame

STANDING AT

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A file image of the champion, Autumn Glow | Credit: Magic Millions

AUTUMN GLOW

MAKES IT 13 FROM 14! The remarkable Autumn Glow (The Autumn Sun) story wrote its latest chapter at Randwick on Saturday when the 5YO mare made it win 13 at start 14 with a tenacious victory in the A$1m Gr2 Seven Sunrise Stakes. Autumn Glow, a daughter of triple Gr1- winning South African race mare Via Africa (Var), was recently crowned Australian Racehorse of the Year for the 2025-2026 racing season and was having her second start of her preparation, having defeated fellow Inglis graduate and three-time Gr1 winner Sheza Alibi first up in the Gr1 Winx Stakes.

Saturday’s performance was typically memorable – Autumn Glow led the five-horse field and while challenged at the top of the straight, when jockey James McDonald asked her for an effort she fought hard and broke her opposition over the final 200m.

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Trained by Chris Waller and bred by Newhaven Park, Autumn Glow is now a winner of almost $9.8m – she cost Arrowfield and Hermitage $1.8m at the Easter Yearling Sale, where she was offered by Silverdale Farm.

what’s going to happen. You’ve got tacticians in the jockeys on the other horses trying to beat her but she took control of the race, James knows her so well and that’s in our favour, it’s a great team and it’s onwards and upwards. I think it was a dominant win.

“It was a dominant performance. She didn’t have it all her own way necessarily, she obviously led and was challenged earlier than she normally would be but she was just too good,’’ Arrowfield’s John Messara said.

“It’s onto the [Gr1] King Charles next, that’s an important one for us, then there’s a good chance we’ll go to Melbourne – if she gets through the next period without any problem – for the Champions Mile. I’d love to get her to Flemington, horses like her should be seen at Flemington, it’s a great course and I’d love to show her to the Melbourne public.’’

“The plan was to not let anyone get away with a soft lead and get a distance ahead of her so [jockey] James [McDonald] took the initiative and led himself and she’s just too good at the moment.

The A$5m Gr1 King Charles III Stakes will be run at Randwick on 17 October.

“Small fields can cause upsets and although she was a red-hot favourite, you never know

NHA CALENDAR

ALL THE ADMIN UNDER ONE UMBRELLA The Sporting Post presents the National Horseracing Authority calendar per 18 September 2026. 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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James McDonald – the rider who gets it done! | Credit: HKJC

JMAC READY FOR THE

THE CARNIVAL Three World’s Best Jockey titles. 142 Group 1 wins and counting. A fourth crown within touching distance. There simply isn’t a bigger name in the saddle right now than James McDonald and as the Australian Spring Carnival roars into life, the man they call JMac is about to enter his kingdom.

But numbers only tell part of the story. What sets James McDonald apart is an almost supernatural ability to extract the very best from a thoroughbred, to find that extra gear when a race is on the line, race after race, season after season.

At just 34, McDonald has already achieved what jockeys spend a lifetime chasing.

The names read like a hall of fame in the making: Romantic Warrior. Verry Elleegant. Nature Strip. Anamoe. Via Sistina. Autumn Glow. Voyage Bubble.

He’s ridden at the very top on every continent that matters, partnered champions across the globe, and built a reputation as the rider who simply gets it done when it counts.

Each one a superstar, each one now written permanently into racing folklore and each one carrying a piece of McDonald’s legacy stitched into their own.

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SLACK FILLY IS QUEEN OF LA PLATA v

Leading South African owner and breeder Mary Slack’s silks have won on four continents this year. 86 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

Personal Filly wins the Gr1 Gran Premio Seleccion de Potrancas | Credit: Supplied

Africa, Europe, Asia, and now South America have hosted Slack winners after Personal Filly won the Gr1 Gran Premio Seleccion de Potrancas at Hipodromo La Plata. The daughter of Dabster reasserted her absolute dominance by defeating Siesta by 5 lengths in another triumph for Juan Saldivia and William Pereyra, in a race that starting in 2027 will sadly lose its top-flight status.

Siesta tried to close the gap and briefly put the leader to the test. It was then that the favorite re-engaged, lengthening her stride and turning that threat into a futile pursuit. The 5-length margin at the wire accurately reflected the contest: a filly running with plenty in reserve and another doing everything possible to keep up.

The absolute dominance she had displayed in the Gr2 Polla de Potrancas found a resounding confirmation over the 2000 meters of the Gran Premio Selección de Potrancas where she once again left Siesta (Cityscape) as her runner-up, this time by 5 lengths.

The timer stopped in 2:06.50 for the winner, who elevated her record to 3 wins from 5 starts. Siesta, who had also finished second in the Polla and fifth just a week earlier in the Gr2 Clásico Federico de Alvear at San Isidro, turned in another honest effort, though once again forced to acknowledge an indisputable superior.

Her crowning glory also carried a historic significance that will endure: she became the last winner of the traditional test while holding Gr1 status. Starting in 2027, the Selección will be downgraded to Gr2, leaving the Gran Premio Dardo Rocha as the sole top-flight event of the La Plata season.

Medium-built at 442 kilograms, Personal Filly packs far more than her frame suggests. She possesses the patience to wait, the resolve to go after the race, and a final kick that enables her to sustain her effort. Over two kilometers, those virtues aligned to yield the most important victory of her career.

The representative of South African outfit Wilgerbosdrift, a daughter of Dabster and Pure Doris, delivered exactly as expected from such a clear favourite. William Pereyra settled her in fourth through the early stages, letting the race take shape up front while conserving the energy that would later prove the difference-maker.

For Juan Saldivia and William Pereyra, the victory extended an extraordinary vein of form.

By the far turn, the chestnut filly began closing in on Everose (Uncle Chuck), who had been tasked with calling the running. Her advance was continuous and, as they straightened for home, she took command. The moment to decide the race had arrived, and Personal Filly handled it with the effortless grace of a true star.

The horizon now presents a particularly enticing possibility for Personal Filly. The Gr1 Gran Premio Selección Palermo is one. There, she could cross paths with her paternal half-sister Look At To Me, also trained by Saldivia and a dominant recent winner of the Polla. It will be a decision for the coming days, but the manner in which she handled her first test over 2000 meters suggests a bright future.

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SPEED DEMON

CRUISES THROUGH GALLOP Ka Ying Rising has completed final preparations before travelling to Australia for a second tilt at the A$20 million (approx. HK$111 million) Gr1 The Everest (1200m) at Randwick Racecourse on 17 October after a faultless track gallop at Sha Tin on Friday (18 September). Exercising pre-dawn on the turf course, the world’s highest-rated horse galloped over 1200m under the watchful eye of David Hayes, clocking 1m 21.70s and rounding off the work with a final 400m sectional of 22.6s.

Triumphant in his past 21 starts, including setting a Sha Tin track record of 1m 06.11s in the Gr3 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup Handicap (1200m) on 6 September, Ka Ying Rising delighted Hayes ahead of the champion’s departure for Sydney, where he will attempt to win the world’s richest turf race for the second time.

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Ka Ying Rising works smoothly at Sha Tin | Credit: HKJC

“He galloped and he ran on well down the straight and he did it nicely, he did it all well – and his recovery was very good,” Hayes said. “He’s eating the food. He’s ready to go after his last piece of work.” Ka Ying Rising will spend two weeks in quarantine at Canterbury Racecourse before trialing at Randwick Racecourse on Tuesday, 6 October. Retired stablemate Ka Ying Glory will travel to Australia with Ka Ying Rising as a companion. Hayes hopes the preparation, which is a carbon copy of last season’s victorious raid, will again deliver the major spoils. “He’s really in great shape. Probably ahead of last year, I would say,” Hayes said. “He doesn’t

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need another horse to work with in quarantine in Australia. Ka Ying Glory will go for company and they can eat together.” Ka Ying Rising, the only foreign-trained horse to win The Everest, again runs in The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s The Everest slot. Ridden by Zac Purton, Ka Ying Rising defeated Tempted and Jimmysstar in last year’s The Everest. The world’s top-ranked horse and the highestrated sprinter in the history of the LONGINES World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, Ka Ying Rising departed from Sha Tin Racecourse for Sydney, Australia on Sunday, 20 September.

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results up to: 2026-09-23

TRAINERS Place %

Win Stake (R)

Total Stakes (R)

50.4

1,696,650

2,490,446

47.7

1,305,063

1,859,084

49.1

1,340,094

1,805,784

50.0

1,268,844

1,579,209

16.4

59.7

738,031

1,187,056

Other Places

Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

3rd

Mr S J Snaith

121

19.8

Mr D G Smith

130

17.7

Mr A C Greeff

110

20.0

Mr A P Peter

26.3

Mike/Mathew De Kock

JOCKEYS Name

Runs

Wins Win%

2nd

Win Place Places Other up 3rd results Stake (R) % to: 2026-09-23

Total Stakes (R)

Mr K de Melo

162

23.5

46.3

2,573,906

3,435,611

Mr C Zackey

125

20.8

50.4

1,495,063

2,134,548

Mr K Matsunyane

119

19.3

50.4

1,535,438

2,115,983

Mr M A Yeni

150

14.7

52.0

1,336,531

2,285,262

Mr G J Lerena

117

17.1

56.4

1,375,719

2,223,594

BREEDERS Name

Runrs Runs

AEPR

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

Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein

172

283

19,966

18.0

132

3,434,163

Varsfontein Stud

115

174

26,553

25.2

3,053,609

Ridgemont Highlands

136

23,872

21.7

1,981,344

Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)

119

21,171

18.8

1,799,572

Klawervlei Stud

125

19,758

18.1

1,639,914

Runrs Runs

AEPR

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

SIRES Name Vercingetorix

149

32,043

28.3

2,947,978

Master Of My Fate

108

167

25,406

22.2

2,743,877

Rafeef (AUS)

107

164

24,732

25.2

2,646,277

Gimmethegreenlight (AUS)

111

160

20,553

18.9

2,281,351

One World

134

22,592

20.5

1,762,163

See all the detailed standings - Click here 92 | 23 SEPTEMBER 2026

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