From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Nov 25

The Ultimate King Declares Victory At Turffontein - Monday, 10 November 2025 

Gladatorian is a wonderful horse. He can sprint or run out over longer distances in high class events. Practically every time he gives it a full go, finishing swiftly and fighting to the finish.

Stuart Ferriés charge regularly run figures of 107, with a career top of 112. On Friday his defeat of Cat’s Pajamas in a Greyville Sprint was worth 104+ with a sectional upgrade.

Princess of Gaul won a false run Western Cape Fillies Championship at Kenilworth where handy positioning and an early move sealed the deal. Craig Zackey had her stalking pacemaker She’s My World, then went for broke at the top of the straight.

Nothing could make any impact from off the pace – Lowveld Lily outran 100/1 odds to sneak second though the horse to take out of the race is 3rd placed Keukenhof who stayed on particularly well. She seems an ideal type for the Fillies Guineas over an extra panel and down the longer straight of the Summer course.

Legal Counsel s/s 101 galloped Cape Mile rivals into submission and is a beast of a horse, hard to pass when he has his way upfront.

The Laisserfaire Stakes saw a surprise result with Disting s/s 99 coming from dead last after a slow start to mug Tanneron s/s 98 in the final lunge of the 1100m race. Zackey excelled on Glen Kotzen’s filly, not panicking when far back and timing her rush perfectly.

Viva’s Liberte was widely expected to take out a Class 4 over a mile but missed the places on a day when several bomb results inflated the Cape PA divvy to over 12K. At first glance it was a disappointing effort by Bass Racing’s highly touted entry but, after crunching the numbers, it revealed far stronger than expected figure for 3YO foes: Beware s/s 99, Yamakazi s/s 96 and Note to Self s/s 95.

Viva’s Liberte also scored a credible 95, no consolation for those who backed him, but nevertheless still a strong number for a developing horse having just a third start.

This is potentially a key race so can be used as a pointer when any of these gallopers make their next start. Beware, in particular, looks to have plenty natural ability and scope, as it was only his third time at the races. This Rafeef youngster is very smart - Lucinda Woodruff seemingly has a good one on her hands.

The Ultimate King s/s 100 was backed to win the Gr 3 Victory Moon Stakes at Turffontein on Sunday (9/2 into 5/2) and made sure under a composed inside rail steer by Rachel Venniker. He has now won half of his ten starts. A staying-on Field Marshal (s/s 98) was the only rival to get close, as Navajo Nation folded the last furlong.

Enjoy the thrill of every race by betting on the latest racing events with Interbet’s Racing Zone.  Every bet placed on the Interbet Tote goes directly into the Tote Pools, helping to sustain the sport we love. You can also experience our new Racing Exchange  — mobile-first, fast, and offering 0% commission.

Bio: Mark van Deventer has been refining his speed figures for thoroughbred racehorses over three decades. A full-time racing journalist since 2013, he’s known for his integrity and imaginative handicapping, adapting the principles of Andrew Beyer’s figures to South African racecourses.

Interbet Weekend Racing Preview - Friday, 14 November 2025

Gimmie Rules s/s 96 ++ will be a popular anchor in multiple bets on Saturday. Ante post he is quoted at 4/10 deep odds on.

Renowned Classic conditioner, Dean Kannemeyer is teeing him up for a dip at the Cape Guineas and his charge needs to handle the Kenilworth turn and win convincingly in Race 3 to firm up his claims in the upcoming prestigious Gr1.

Gimmie Rules’ main menace is Jet Force s/s 103, an older Master of my Fate gelding that has already won three of four starts under Des McLachlan. Whether he can concede 4.5kg’s to an emerging talent that is incredibly highly rated by jockey Craig Zackey, is debatable.

Many punters are reluctant to bet unproven Maidens against winners. But, if their figures withstand scrutiny and the price is right, then why not take a dip?

Cedar Point got a neat s/s of 86 + when running a quick closing sectional and staying on behind one of the most promising 3YO’s around, Miami Summer just 17 days ago. Trainer Justin Snaith steps him out in Race 4, an Apprentice Stakes, against humble, exposed opposition where a figure in the mid 80’s can just about win it.

Mela Strength (25 runs), Mariarchi Madness (24 starts) and Tres Chic (35 outings) are two-time winners with decent credentials.

Just maybe Cedar Point, under capable and determined, visiting apprentice Nicola Yuen (from the Hong Kong Jockey Club,) can upstage them. At odds of 4/1 or better, Cedar Point seems worth an each way tickle. Kannemeyer also saddles 3YO Gallic Victor s/s 93 ++ in Race 5 a Class 4 over 1950m. He and retained jock, Zackey (7 wins and 5 seconds from the last 30 horses ridden) have been striking at a hot rate recently. This extremely promising youngster (offered at even money in early trade) could prove best if the longer distance proves suitable, though contemporary Coco’s Hero s/s 92 and elder King’s Quest s/s 95 are feared.

Bettors trying to nail trifectas and quartets can also use Arbitration s/s 92, Gentleman Joe s/s 91, Heal and Soul s/s 89 plus Dive Bomber s/s 88.

Phil Purser was an Australian racing journalist with an entertaining line of patter though his controversial take on things and call-it-as-I -see it straight-shooting style turned many authorities against him. Eventually, worn out by age, and the stress of being muzzled by officials, he shut down his website and tipping services.

One of Purser’s pet theories was to oppose chronic, long-term losers. He was not remotely interested in supporting horses that had not won for many moons, no matter how persuasive their other form credentials may have been.

He would therefore advise against supporting 5/1 chance Heliotrope s/s 92 in Race 6, even though she is well handicapped on a few lines of form; sports a good course and distance record and should work out a ground-saving trip under capable apprentice, Bungane.The reason for Purser’s lack of enthusiasm is the fact that Heliotrope is on a 399-day losing streak. If she again finds a way to get rolled, Lavender Bay s/s 91, My Only Weakness s/s 91 and Two a Penny s/s 91 are likely candidates for No 1 box in a tightly clustered Class 4 contest.

Enjoy the thrill of every race by betting on the latest racing events with Interbet’s Racing Zone.  Every bet placed on the Interbet Tote goes directly into the Tote Pools, helping to sustain the sport we love. You can also experience our new Racing Exchange  — mobile-first, fast, and offering 0% commission.

Bio: Mark van Deventer has been refining his speed figures for thoroughbred racehorses over three decades. A full-time racing journalist since 2013, he’s known for his integrity and imaginative handicapping, adapting the principles of Andrew Beyer’s figures to South African racecourses.

Top stuff Mark, Beyer the king of speed figures and your workings are very helpful.

Running styles…and Horses To Follow - Monday, 17 November 2025

Which horse would you rather back? A determined front runner that gives a good sight up front, stays out of trouble and makes his own luck setting the pace.

Or a fast- finishing horse that is usually conserved at the back of the field in early running before making a late dash for glory.

Of course, it’s a personal preference which you prefer to cheer on, though the highest percentage of winners actually come from those in-between types that neither lead nor get settled in the rear. Horses that press the pace, stalking a couple of lengths off the speed before making well timed moves win more than their fair share of races.

They just have more positional options than one-dimensional pace setters with targets on their back, or the deep closing cavalry. The latter group are often hostages to pace and require luck in running when trying to weave through the field.

Beyond running styles, the track profile and prevailing conditions tend to suit one style or the other. If a tailwind is blowing at courses like Greyville or the Kenilworth Winter track, both with relatively short straights, often life is made easier for front-runners to poach an unassailable margin and last home. 

Conversely, a deep, tiring Turffontein track would favour stretch runners with proven stamina at altitude.

There are many factors to consider. The natural ability and fitness level of each thoroughbred is paramount when trying to spot the likely winner. 

But running style and track conditions may be advantageous or prejudice a particular racing tactic. And that can be a decisive, yet underappreciated, piece of the handicapping puzzle.

Interbet racegoers compiling Horse Watch Lists might add these horses from Saturday’s Kenilworth meeting: 

Winter Snap s/s 97 + - finished with plenty of energy to win after a long layoff. Trainer Candice Bass says her charge has a suspensory issue (just like the famous Pocket Power battled with throughout his career) but when he is in good order can really scuttle. The youngster showed as much on Saturday.

October Fest s/s 96 – also conditioned at Bass Racing. Finished with a flourish in a dash into the stiff headwind but could not pass Dame of Trix who remains in fine form for James Crawford.

Gimmie Rules s/s 98 + – usually a speed figure of 100 and above is required in the build up to the Cape Guineas to be a principal contender. Nevertheless, Dean Kannemeyer’s fast progressing entry could still make a splash in the 3YO Gr1 as he can improve a few ticks on this showing when caught wide and racing green around the turn in a buffeting wind.

Enjoy the thrill of every race by betting on the latest racing events with Interbet’s Racing Zone.  Every bet placed on the Interbet Tote goes directly into the Tote Pools, helping to sustain the sport we love. You can also experience our new Racing Exchange  — mobile-first, fast, and offering 0% commission.

Bio: Mark van Deventer has been refining his speed figures for thoroughbred racehorses over three decades. A full-time racing journalist since 2013, he’s known for his integrity and imaginative handicapping, adapting the principles of Andrew Beyer’s figures to South African racecourses.

Cheers Mark 🍻 

Appreciated 

Kenilworth Racing Preview - Saturday, 22 November 2025

Kenilworth puts on a Saturday card full of quality with plenty of betting opportunities.

Champion, Double Grand Slam s/s 109 makes her seasonal bow in the Summer Bowl, a race she won last year before adding more Gr1’s to her resume. She is weighted to win easily and is much the best in the race on the speed figures hence opening quotes of 9/10 odds on, but some caution is advised as she is clearly prepping for bigger targets.

Snaith trained stable mates, Swiatek s/s 100 is next best; iron mare Rainbow Lorikeet s/s 103 cannot be faulted for consistency yet faces a daunting task at the weight turn around.

Umfula s/s 100 appeals as an each way touch at 5/1 in Race 4 after putting in two heartening runs over shorter and is now stretching out to a more suitable 1800m. But Richard Fourie getting off to ride Strawberry Thief s/s 95 raises some hesitation.

2/1 antepost favourite, Future Free s/s 95 + has untapped potential so is feared with a light weight. Top weight Pinot Grigio s/s 98 sets a solid standard, as well.

Snaith Racing has a strong hand in Race 5 a Conditions Plate. The trio of Sail the Seas s/s 110, Great Plains s/s 109 and Snow Pilot s/s 108 are top class thoroughbreds yet, like Double Grand Slam, are getting warmed up for upcoming Graded features.

The only other one to consider is La Pulga s/s 103 who has the benefit of a recent run, receives weight from those already mentioned and goes particularly well for Sean Veale

All The Rage s/s 101 ++ is the business in the Sophomore Sprint. Hugely impressive when seeing off Good for You he appeals as a classy 3YO sprinter with tremendous scope. Aldo Domeyer rides; Candice Bass Robinson trains. He is offered around even money in ante-post markets.

Green Gateway s/s 97, Roland Garros s/s 96, Magical Place s/s 94 are the immediate back ups. Sardinia Bay s/s 92, Military Command s/s 94, Black Eagle s/s 93 and Malmesbury Missile s/s 95 make up a much wider list of possibles should the fave underperform.

The Punters Cup is the headliner – a Gr 2 for 3YO’s over 1600m, many harbouring Cape Guineas aspirations.

Fox on the Run s/s 99 + should give a good sight under Fourie from the inside alley. Not only has the Canford Cliffs colt shown Classic ability against older horses but he is determined and game – important attributes. The 5/1 chance will need to see off a posse of rivals who are rated close.

Happy Verse s/s 98, Randolph Hearst s/s 97, Aristocratic s/s 99, Better Man s/s 97, Star Major s/s 96 and Absolutely Yes s/s 98 need not improve by much to have winning claims in a challenging contest.

Tenango s/s 117 ran off the charts when winning the Golden Horseshoe back in May. His follow up second to Buffalo Storm Cody from a dreadful draw at Greyville was admirable under the circumstance. He now resumes 118 days after those sterling efforts and is a major contender for big sprints this Cape Summer season, though again there is a question mark over race-readiness.

A horse who could pop up at a price is Teflon Man s/s 105 who is well in on past collateral form. With Arctic Wizard s/s 104 and Un Bel Di s/s 104 likely to set a fast pace into a strong south easter headwind, circumstances could enable 12/1 value touch, Teflon Man, a hold up sprinter, to get into the race late with his withering turn of foot.

Ireland Forever may be the answer in Race 9, a Class 4 over 1400m. He went into the Horse Watch List after launching a bold rally against the track bias to get close to Steadfast in a September sprint at Durbanville.

He has failed twice since, but there could be legitimate reasons. 1000m is actually too sharp, according to canny, trainer Vaughan Marshall and he was prejudiced by a wide draw in a race won by Fox on the Run. He could now get all the favours from gate 2 under ace jock, Fourie and a true run seven panels should be ideal. He is on offer at around 11/2.

Race 9 is the final leg of the P6. Whilst Ireland Forever holds neat credentials, he may not quite be full-on banker material. Indeed, he faces some promising 3YO contemporaries in Blind Date s/s 89 + and Smarten Up s/s 87 +. And older campaigners Green Garnet s/s 95, Carriacou s/s 94, Red Dawn s/s 93, Scottish Links s/s 93 and even pace factor Noble Hero s/s 93 are right in the mix, too.

Enjoy the thrill of every race by betting on the latest racing events with Interbet’s Racing Zone.  Every bet placed on the Interbet Tote goes directly into the Tote Pools, helping to sustain the sport we love. You can also experience our new Racing Exchange  — mobile-first, fast, and offering 0% commission.

Bio: Mark van Deventer has been refining his speed figures for thoroughbred racehorses over three decades. A full-time racing journalist since 2013, he’s known for his integrity and imaginative handicapping, adapting the principles of Andrew Beyer’s figures to South African racecourses.

Ka Ying Rises to the top - Tuesday, 25 November 2025

Even for total devotees, creating speed figures involves a lot of drudge work. And all those labors in crunching the numbers may not prove remunerative because most horses fall within a band from weak to mediocre. And betting moderate horses that take turns beating one another is not the key to the mint. 

But there is something special about measuring thoroughbred performance accurately and having a secret code for interpreting just how good a performance really is.  

So it is with true delight that a speed figure zealot can report on Ka Ying Rising latest tour de force in Hong Kong on Sunday. 

Officially rated the best racehorse in the world, and returning after winning the Everest in Australia, he was 1/10 odds on favourite to whip local rivals in the Jockey Club Sprint, a feat he managed in some style. In the succinct words of trainer, David Hayes, “this was his best…’’ 

Taken literally ran a speed figure of 120 but he just freewheeled in the last 200m and could have gone quicker if put under pressure. Crunching some of the key sectionals when he quickened up from a handy position, suggest he could rate higher than 126 + which is phenomenal. 

Another one of the world’s current best racehorses, globetrotter Romantic Warrior came back from surgery to win the Jockey Club Cup over 2000m. It was a slow run race which turned into a sprint as they came towards the final bend. Even though the field jogged early there are few middle-distance horses able to gallop 400m in 21.7 seconds which was Romantic Warrior’s blistering come home fraction. Admittedly on a much less rarified level, Kenilworth nevertheless staged some good quality racing on Saturday. Here are the top performances measured on the clock: 

Great Plains s/s 106 again showed his liking for seven panels quickening up to beat stable mate, Sail the Seas s/s 105.

Regulation s/s 103 when drawing clear over 1800m. He should be followed in upcoming races over middle distances. All three of these horses mentioned are trained by Justin Snaith, who had a valuable stint working in Oz under genial and knowledgeable trainer, David Hayes, mentioned earlier in this blog. 

Green Gateway s/s 101 (trained by Dean Kannemeyer) showed a flashy turn of foot to come from the rear in the Sophomore Sprint and outduel Roland Garros (Snaith, again) in a thriller. Both are very smart 3YO’s.

Mai Sensation s/s 98 got the run of the race and capitalized in the Bantry Bay Stakes. The horse to take out of this contest is the runner up Raven Black who completely blew the start and did remarkably under the circumstances to get within half a length in this sprint. His performance can be upgraded to a s/s of 103 ++.

Enjoy the thrill of every race by betting on the latest racing events with Interbet’s Racing Zone.  Every bet placed on the Interbet Tote goes directly into the Tote Pools, helping to sustain the sport we love. You can also experience our new Racing Exchange  — mobile-first, fast, and offering 0% commission.

Bio: Mark van Deventer has been refining his speed figures for thoroughbred racehorses over three decades. A full-time racing journalist since 2013, he’s known for his integrity and imaginative handicapping, adapting the principles of Andrew Beyer’s figures to South African racecourses.

Summer Cup 2025 Preview - Friday, 28 November 2025

The Summer Cup is carded as Race 8 at Turffontein on Saturday, starting time 16h00.

Interbet are offering attractive fixed odds win and place prices on the new exchange, as well as the full array of Tote bets.

A full field of 20 in an open handicap over 2000m poses a special challenge for punters, with the possibility of an excellent return if calling this Grade 1 correctly.

Profiles of all the runners follow below, with their best speed score [s/s] listed 

ATTICUS FINCH s/s 110 defending champ who now carries 6kg’s more than last year. Is in good nick after a bleeding suspension, winning the Charity Mile convincingly a month ago. Goes especially well for Habib and is drawn to take the shortest route home.

ROYAL VICTORY s/s 111 ran nicely in the July with blinkers on and they get refitted. Has an excellent record at Turffontein over this trip, winning this race in 2023 when carrying 54kg’s. Harder task upped on the weight scale – is respected, nevertheless.

KING PELLES s/s 104 proven, quality stayer that has been heavily backed in early trading. Sports a fine record on wet tracks. Sure to be closing when others have turned it up but needs to boost his figures somewhat.

SON OF RAJ s/s 103 this 6YO makes breathing noises and is not quite the force he used to be (though he won the London News in February 2025) The sense is he could do with some relief from the handicapper. Not entirely out of the question for placings.

THE EQUATOR s/s 105 + hard to assess import who has won his two starts on the Highveld against lesser rivals without undue fuss. He earned speed figures of 97 + and 98 +. His Timeform rating was 116p before being sold in October 2024. If building on his overseas form, then he would have a real chance here carrying 55kg’s. But he has not run to that weight classification, as yet in SA. Only this race can answer quite where he slots in on the pecking order.

LEGEND OF ARTHUR s/s 104 impressive SA Derby victor who ran smart figures as a 3YO but has not come close since. Needs a sudden return to form.    

MADISON VALLEY s/s 105 jockey Craig Zackey says he would be quite confident of his chances here but for a terrible draw of 18. The Durban July form backs up the senior jock’s opinion. Madison Valley ran 4th in this race last year, staying on from dead last.

OTTO LUYKEN s/s 103 game, five- time winner who comes up a bit short on the figs to make the contender list. O a positive note, he goes best handy so should give his running from a middling draw whilst wet going would boost his chances, too.

MY BEST SHOT s/s 102 intriguing Eastern Cape invader who gets fitted with a tongue tie. 11 dominant victories playing at home but his previous excursion away from Fairview was unsuccessful. Some wizardry from Richard Fourie is needed to help him to hit the board. 

ON MY HONOUR s/s 107 looks nicely placed here as a peaking 4YO with a competitive weight. His run in the Cup Trial when he just missed but out finished Madison Valley at virtually level weights, puts him right in the mix. Serino Moodley should be able to secure a clear round from draw 5. Trainer, Glen Kotzen reports he is working like a bomb. Very soft ground may not be ideal, however. Appealing long shot each way play.

SPUMANTE DOLCE s/s 105 one of the best fillies of her generation and her run to Eight on Eighteen in the Daily News over this trip would give her a shake here. And there were encouraging signs when kicking on behind Minogue in her prep at her second star after a break given that she has won third up before.

PARISIAN WALKWAY s/s 100 The Equator gave him wind chill last time so no reason to believe he can reverse that from a wide draw.

BUSTOPINHOUNSLOW s/s 98 just four wins from 17 tries and short on the figure required to be a factor.

OLIVIA’S WAY s/s 104 twice this filly has won third run after a freshening, so she has the right form pattern Is she good enough? Maybe not quite to actually win - but cannot be ruled out of the placings under cagey pilot, Fortune.

THE ULTIMATE KING s/s 100 + any developing 4YO that has won half their starts must be respected. He continues to progress and could easily be better than rated. This is his toughest assignment, though.

WILD INTENT s/s 101 beaten a wart in the SA Derby by Legend of Arthur in March. Nowhere near that level since.

ANFIELDS ROCKET s/s 101 best rating was in the King’s Plate (s/s 107) but is currently performing below that number and is a big stamina query going ten panels at altitude on a possibly sodden track.

SOLAR SAIL s/s 97 the form of his career top in the SA Derby has not been matched and he needs a revival. Looks unlikely from draw 19.

MOCHA BLEND s/s 96 ++ just eight starts for this Ideal World 4YO filly who stayed on well in the Woolavington, so there is upside to her C.V. But will need to run a much higher number than what she has managed thus far.

NAVAJO NATION s/s 99 falls shy on the figs and is another held safe by The Ultimate King on their clash three weeks ago.

GRADES: A = 10           B = 1 2 3 5 7 11                 C = 4 9 14 15.

Enjoy the thrill of every race by betting on the latest racing events with Interbet’s Racing Zone.  Every bet placed on the Interbet Tote goes directly into the Tote Pools, helping to sustain the sport we love. You can also experience our new Racing Exchange  — mobile-first, fast, and offering 0% commission.

Bio: Mark van Deventer has been refining his speed figures for thoroughbred racehorses over three decades. A full-time racing journalist since 2013, he’s known for his integrity and imaginative handicapping, adapting the principles of Andrew Beyer’s figures to South African racecourses.