From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
4 months 2 weeks ago - 4 months 2 weeks ago
Bombs land in Summer Cup 2025 - Monday, 1 December 2025
Punters, except for a lucky few visionaries, were left perplexed at the finish of the Summer Cup. Mocha Blend won it at 100/1 from 40/1 lurker Olivia’s Way with The Ultimate King 3rd at 7/1 and Busstopinhounslow at 100/1 rounding out a zany quartet which paid 355K.
They were all 4YO’s that carried 54kg’s. Mocha Blend, an Ideal World filly, made a rails move from the back of the field to spring the upset and provide trainer Frank Robinson with a Grade 1 victory. Credit to Tristan Godden for saving ground and working out a perfect passage on Mocha Blend.
It was a perplexing race. Barring The Ultimate King, none of the fancied runners shaped, with many running miles below best; the final time was a second slower than the Consolation won by Aladdin’s Lamp (s/s 102) and sadly, horses fell during a melee in the straight. Without detracting from the winner’s effort (she earned a modest figure of 95 +), it marred the Gr 1 contest.
Trust beat off Jan van Goyen in the Dingaan’s. Remarkably, this son of Heavenly Blue got a number of 100 at only his second start and confirmed his raw talent by scoring 101 to outduel a quality rival. He was well handled by Serino Moodley. Both horses should be followed during the season as triple digit speed scores mark them as genuine Classic contenders. Richard Fourie was at his brilliant best in two consecutive sprints earlier on the Turffontein program. He quickly worked out that the track was riding deep and tiring, so let his mounts (Mia Moo, trained by Sean Tarry and Pistol Pete from the Tony Peter barn) coast along at the back of the field whilst the speedsters exhausted themselves.
He then produced them with impeccable timing to pass almost the entire field and win the Carry On Alice Stakes (Mia Moo s/s 98) and Merchants (Pistol Pete) respectively. Fourie is striking hot at 26% winners to rides.
Speaking of jockeys, Keagan de Melo returns to S.A. after a couple of seasons in Hong Kong where, after a decent start, he ultimately struggled for meaningful support. His last ride was on Baby Crystal for Brett Crawford, who is making a positive impact at establishing himself in one of the toughest colonies in the world.
De Melo is a polished, thoughtful rider and he gave out and out sprinter Baby Crystal s/s 100 a typically stylish, well-paced trip. But they were unable to resist the flashy finish from dead last of Colourful King s/s 110 ++ who seems headed for the tops based on this excellent number. Crimson Flash s/s 103 also passed Baby Crystal, who nevertheless did enough to secure the lower trifecta slot.
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.
Punters, except for a lucky few visionaries, were left perplexed at the finish of the Summer Cup. Mocha Blend won it at 100/1 from 40/1 lurker Olivia’s Way with The Ultimate King 3rd at 7/1 and Busstopinhounslow at 100/1 rounding out a zany quartet which paid 355K.
They were all 4YO’s that carried 54kg’s. Mocha Blend, an Ideal World filly, made a rails move from the back of the field to spring the upset and provide trainer Frank Robinson with a Grade 1 victory. Credit to Tristan Godden for saving ground and working out a perfect passage on Mocha Blend.
It was a perplexing race. Barring The Ultimate King, none of the fancied runners shaped, with many running miles below best; the final time was a second slower than the Consolation won by Aladdin’s Lamp (s/s 102) and sadly, horses fell during a melee in the straight. Without detracting from the winner’s effort (she earned a modest figure of 95 +), it marred the Gr 1 contest.
Trust beat off Jan van Goyen in the Dingaan’s. Remarkably, this son of Heavenly Blue got a number of 100 at only his second start and confirmed his raw talent by scoring 101 to outduel a quality rival. He was well handled by Serino Moodley. Both horses should be followed during the season as triple digit speed scores mark them as genuine Classic contenders. Richard Fourie was at his brilliant best in two consecutive sprints earlier on the Turffontein program. He quickly worked out that the track was riding deep and tiring, so let his mounts (Mia Moo, trained by Sean Tarry and Pistol Pete from the Tony Peter barn) coast along at the back of the field whilst the speedsters exhausted themselves.
He then produced them with impeccable timing to pass almost the entire field and win the Carry On Alice Stakes (Mia Moo s/s 98) and Merchants (Pistol Pete) respectively. Fourie is striking hot at 26% winners to rides.
Speaking of jockeys, Keagan de Melo returns to S.A. after a couple of seasons in Hong Kong where, after a decent start, he ultimately struggled for meaningful support. His last ride was on Baby Crystal for Brett Crawford, who is making a positive impact at establishing himself in one of the toughest colonies in the world.
De Melo is a polished, thoughtful rider and he gave out and out sprinter Baby Crystal s/s 100 a typically stylish, well-paced trip. But they were unable to resist the flashy finish from dead last of Colourful King s/s 110 ++ who seems headed for the tops based on this excellent number. Crimson Flash s/s 103 also passed Baby Crystal, who nevertheless did enough to secure the lower trifecta slot.
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.
Last edit: 4 months 2 weeks ago by Mark van Deventer.
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Re: From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
4 months 1 week ago - 4 months 1 week ago
Kenilworth Racing Preview - Friday, 5 December 2025
Kenilworth is where the action is for horseplayers on Saturday, headlined by the G1 Cape Fillies Guineas, G3 Southern Cross Stakes and Summer Stayers.
Punters know that money won counts for the same whether it’s a prestigious feature or a humble race on the undercard. In that (hopeful) spirit let’s seek out four possible winning wagers across the ten -race program. The horses can be backed individually, hooked up in multiples or used as keys in the exotics.
Loving Prague appeals in Race 2, a Maiden over 1200m. The 3YO Prague colt went down after quite a tussle with Umzingeli Wenyathi, earning an excellent speed figure of 96. The winner was not disgraced on handicap follow up, and third horse Prairie Dawn caught the eye with a flashy finish midweek to give the form an even nicer sheen.
Andre Nel has given Loving Prague a month since that early- November exertion and if getting anywhere close to that mid 90’s number will be hard to beat.
The danger is red-hot trainer, Paddy Kruyer’s, Fast Train s/s 88, turning back to sprints, whilst Red Wave s/s 82 is a pace factor worthy of respect
Justin Snaith has a firm grip on Race 4 with stylish last start Durbanville victor, Miami Summer s/s 96 + and Note to Self s/s 101.
The latter is preferred as he ran his big fig at Kenilworth in what could well turn into a key race ahead of the Cape Derby. On that occasion he closed ground over a mile to run near to Beware despite having to switch at a crucial stage. Being by Futura he should appreciate nine panels – Keagan de Melo, back in town after running out of meaningful support in Hong Kong, is the jock.
Captain’s Alliance s/s 94, Spirit of Levana s/s 94 and Two a Penny s/s 93 can be used underneath in the single race exotics.
Maybe Snaith, who celebrated his 51st B’Day on Wednesday, can gift punters another winner in the tenth race. He saddles Pink Pigeon s/s 98 who has come back energized after a rest to hit numbers in the high 90’s which is plenty good enough to win a Class 4.
Admittedly carrying just 52.5 kg’s she only got mugged close to the line in the Laisserfaire, and faces nothing as fearsome this time around.
The 4yo Querari filly gets claim 4Kg apprentice Bungane who can point and steer her down the 1000m straight course from draw 2. If a strong south easter is blowing that may call for some scaling back of bets as horses down the inner get exposed and bear the brunt of the fierce wind. But on her best scores she appeals as the most likely winner in an open betting race.
Dame of Trix s/s 96 Sports Fan s/s 93 + Peace of Mind s/s 95 and Snaith companion, Clair de Lune s/s 94 are the principal dangers.
The fourth suggested tip is Act of Grace s/s 90 each way in Race 9. Glen Kotzen’s filly has been producing some nippy come-home sectional, without reward it must be acknowledged, since moving back to the Cape from KZN.
A tendency to be slow away and come from off the pace makes her a hostage to fortune – she is also drawn 8/10 in this 1400m event. But in Richard Fourie she has a world class hoop and the longer run in of the summer course gives her ample opportunity to run down the leaders.
Her (many) rivals are quite closely clustered in the mid to high 80’s; Beach Verse has already run s/s 91 so is the most dangerous though the weight turn around brings Act of Grace close to parity with her October nemesis.
Those are the four best opportunities on Saturday’s card, in my humble opinion.
As for the feature races, they are puzzling. Golden Palm is heavily favoured by the market for the Cape Fillies Guineas, but she must travel down from the Eastern Cape and go around a left- handed bend for the first time. Alan Greeff’s representative is clearly very talented but does not have a substantial edge on the figures (most rate in the high 90’s with potential to improve) and it may be prudent to cover her in exotic perms with several other bigger priced, contenders.
Princess of Gaul, Keukenhof, Stormwatch, Wish List and Reet Petite are viable alternatives to the chalk, and for very wide tickets, Call me Secret and Lowveld Lily can be added, too.
The Southern Cross Stakes is a brain teaser. Greeff also hold the key here with ante-post favourite, Direct Hit, who is a perfect five from five. She ran a 95 + on Fairview debut in January 2025, a rare feat for a baby, and has gone on from there to win the G1 Allan Robertson. She now takes on older fillies and mares who run scores of 102 or slightly better so it will take a career peak for her to see them off.
Legit dangers include the wonderful mare, Asiye Phambili s/s 104 when beating speedball, Candy Town s/s 100 in this race last year; the erratic but smart, Symphony in White best s/s 103 in the Umgeni and Roccapina s/s 103 behind Asiye Phambili in the Sceptre Stakes only to be suspended since for bleeding.
Green Diamond s/s 101, trained by Sean Tarry, is a zippy Highveld youngster with considerable scope worth keeping onside, 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.
Kenilworth is where the action is for horseplayers on Saturday, headlined by the G1 Cape Fillies Guineas, G3 Southern Cross Stakes and Summer Stayers.
Punters know that money won counts for the same whether it’s a prestigious feature or a humble race on the undercard. In that (hopeful) spirit let’s seek out four possible winning wagers across the ten -race program. The horses can be backed individually, hooked up in multiples or used as keys in the exotics.
Loving Prague appeals in Race 2, a Maiden over 1200m. The 3YO Prague colt went down after quite a tussle with Umzingeli Wenyathi, earning an excellent speed figure of 96. The winner was not disgraced on handicap follow up, and third horse Prairie Dawn caught the eye with a flashy finish midweek to give the form an even nicer sheen.
Andre Nel has given Loving Prague a month since that early- November exertion and if getting anywhere close to that mid 90’s number will be hard to beat.
The danger is red-hot trainer, Paddy Kruyer’s, Fast Train s/s 88, turning back to sprints, whilst Red Wave s/s 82 is a pace factor worthy of respect
Justin Snaith has a firm grip on Race 4 with stylish last start Durbanville victor, Miami Summer s/s 96 + and Note to Self s/s 101.
The latter is preferred as he ran his big fig at Kenilworth in what could well turn into a key race ahead of the Cape Derby. On that occasion he closed ground over a mile to run near to Beware despite having to switch at a crucial stage. Being by Futura he should appreciate nine panels – Keagan de Melo, back in town after running out of meaningful support in Hong Kong, is the jock.
Captain’s Alliance s/s 94, Spirit of Levana s/s 94 and Two a Penny s/s 93 can be used underneath in the single race exotics.
Maybe Snaith, who celebrated his 51st B’Day on Wednesday, can gift punters another winner in the tenth race. He saddles Pink Pigeon s/s 98 who has come back energized after a rest to hit numbers in the high 90’s which is plenty good enough to win a Class 4.
Admittedly carrying just 52.5 kg’s she only got mugged close to the line in the Laisserfaire, and faces nothing as fearsome this time around.
The 4yo Querari filly gets claim 4Kg apprentice Bungane who can point and steer her down the 1000m straight course from draw 2. If a strong south easter is blowing that may call for some scaling back of bets as horses down the inner get exposed and bear the brunt of the fierce wind. But on her best scores she appeals as the most likely winner in an open betting race.
Dame of Trix s/s 96 Sports Fan s/s 93 + Peace of Mind s/s 95 and Snaith companion, Clair de Lune s/s 94 are the principal dangers.
The fourth suggested tip is Act of Grace s/s 90 each way in Race 9. Glen Kotzen’s filly has been producing some nippy come-home sectional, without reward it must be acknowledged, since moving back to the Cape from KZN.
A tendency to be slow away and come from off the pace makes her a hostage to fortune – she is also drawn 8/10 in this 1400m event. But in Richard Fourie she has a world class hoop and the longer run in of the summer course gives her ample opportunity to run down the leaders.
Her (many) rivals are quite closely clustered in the mid to high 80’s; Beach Verse has already run s/s 91 so is the most dangerous though the weight turn around brings Act of Grace close to parity with her October nemesis.
Those are the four best opportunities on Saturday’s card, in my humble opinion.
As for the feature races, they are puzzling. Golden Palm is heavily favoured by the market for the Cape Fillies Guineas, but she must travel down from the Eastern Cape and go around a left- handed bend for the first time. Alan Greeff’s representative is clearly very talented but does not have a substantial edge on the figures (most rate in the high 90’s with potential to improve) and it may be prudent to cover her in exotic perms with several other bigger priced, contenders.
Princess of Gaul, Keukenhof, Stormwatch, Wish List and Reet Petite are viable alternatives to the chalk, and for very wide tickets, Call me Secret and Lowveld Lily can be added, too.
The Southern Cross Stakes is a brain teaser. Greeff also hold the key here with ante-post favourite, Direct Hit, who is a perfect five from five. She ran a 95 + on Fairview debut in January 2025, a rare feat for a baby, and has gone on from there to win the G1 Allan Robertson. She now takes on older fillies and mares who run scores of 102 or slightly better so it will take a career peak for her to see them off.
Legit dangers include the wonderful mare, Asiye Phambili s/s 104 when beating speedball, Candy Town s/s 100 in this race last year; the erratic but smart, Symphony in White best s/s 103 in the Umgeni and Roccapina s/s 103 behind Asiye Phambili in the Sceptre Stakes only to be suspended since for bleeding.
Green Diamond s/s 101, trained by Sean Tarry, is a zippy Highveld youngster with considerable scope worth keeping onside, 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.
Last edit: 4 months 1 week ago by Mark van Deventer.
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Re: From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
4 months 1 week ago - 4 months 1 week ago
Tienie Prinsloo gets a Grade 1 - Tuesday, 9 December 2025
Quickstepgal went from start to finish under Gavin Lerena to win Saturday’s G1 Cape Fillies Guineas having been backed from 16/1 into 10/1. This was a personal triumph for affable Tienie Prinsloo, a journeyman trainer.
He was “numero uno” at old Flamingo Park in Kimberley and was gutted when that track closed. He relocated to Durban where he has been battling with limited support in recent times, his string stuck on just 16 horses.
Whilst Prinsloo may be low-profile, he can most certainly pick and train. He spotted Quickstepgal (by Vercingetorix out of Jet Master mare, Victoriana) at the KYS24 auction amongst the first five babies he viewed and decided instinctively she was the chosen one – no need to look at any others.
Despite concerns she was going to stretch a limited budget, he was utterly determined to buy the bay and went to 450K to secure her for then owner, Rakesh Singh.
Quickstepgal did not take long to show her natural flair. After a sighter on debut in a Scottsville sprint, she reeled off a hat-trick, including a hard-fought win in the Strelitzia Stakes and a fluent score in the Devon Air.
She was sold after that impressive KZN Winter campaign in an August 2025 deal that has worked out great for all concerned. Singh obtained an excellent and quick return on his initial investment; new owners Laurence Wernars and Harry Wilson bought themselves a Fillies Guineas heroine - now with considerable value as a broodmare, and Prinsloo got to keep her in his small stable and train a first ever G1 winner.
It is an unfortunate commercial reality when promising horses are bought out of small yards, the trainer cannot boost his reputation at handling stakes- class horses. Credit is due to Wernar’s for keeping the horse with the original conditioner, and to Prinsloo’s for repaying his faith by seizing the opportunity.
Prinsloo graciously paid tribute to support from his wife, Elsa who encouraged him to remain confident during the lean spells.
The Fillies Guineas buildup was not without drama as Quickstepgal over-reached during the week before the big race. Even the slightest hitch before a G1 can scupper aspirations but Cape Town stalwart trainer, Eric Sands, helping Prinsloo out, did an excellent patch up job.
The race itself was won inside the first 100m thx to Quickstepgal’s alertness and Lerená’s assertiveness. Prinsloo, who was champion trainer on the speed orientated Flaming Park dirt track knows how important seizing an early advantage can be even in turf races.
It so happens, after a ride by Kabelo Matsunyane up in Durban, Prinsloo worked out that a pace-pressing style suits Quickstepgal best. She relaxes better when on the lead and can quicken from that position - a tactical combination which makes her a tough nut to crack.
Quickstepgal duly pinged the gates, went to the lead, controlled the pace perfectly and a 23.6 closing sectional got the job done.
Reet Petite followed her in second all the way around the track, succumbing by .75 lengths.
Wish List caught the eye running on from midfield against a track profile which played favorably to handy types around the turn. Her 23.2 second 400m to finish fraction proved good enough for third, two lengths off the winner.
Quickstepgal’s performance merited a speed figure of 103, with sectional upgrade.
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.
Quickstepgal went from start to finish under Gavin Lerena to win Saturday’s G1 Cape Fillies Guineas having been backed from 16/1 into 10/1. This was a personal triumph for affable Tienie Prinsloo, a journeyman trainer.
He was “numero uno” at old Flamingo Park in Kimberley and was gutted when that track closed. He relocated to Durban where he has been battling with limited support in recent times, his string stuck on just 16 horses.
Whilst Prinsloo may be low-profile, he can most certainly pick and train. He spotted Quickstepgal (by Vercingetorix out of Jet Master mare, Victoriana) at the KYS24 auction amongst the first five babies he viewed and decided instinctively she was the chosen one – no need to look at any others.
Despite concerns she was going to stretch a limited budget, he was utterly determined to buy the bay and went to 450K to secure her for then owner, Rakesh Singh.
Quickstepgal did not take long to show her natural flair. After a sighter on debut in a Scottsville sprint, she reeled off a hat-trick, including a hard-fought win in the Strelitzia Stakes and a fluent score in the Devon Air.
She was sold after that impressive KZN Winter campaign in an August 2025 deal that has worked out great for all concerned. Singh obtained an excellent and quick return on his initial investment; new owners Laurence Wernars and Harry Wilson bought themselves a Fillies Guineas heroine - now with considerable value as a broodmare, and Prinsloo got to keep her in his small stable and train a first ever G1 winner.
It is an unfortunate commercial reality when promising horses are bought out of small yards, the trainer cannot boost his reputation at handling stakes- class horses. Credit is due to Wernar’s for keeping the horse with the original conditioner, and to Prinsloo’s for repaying his faith by seizing the opportunity.
Prinsloo graciously paid tribute to support from his wife, Elsa who encouraged him to remain confident during the lean spells.
The Fillies Guineas buildup was not without drama as Quickstepgal over-reached during the week before the big race. Even the slightest hitch before a G1 can scupper aspirations but Cape Town stalwart trainer, Eric Sands, helping Prinsloo out, did an excellent patch up job.
The race itself was won inside the first 100m thx to Quickstepgal’s alertness and Lerená’s assertiveness. Prinsloo, who was champion trainer on the speed orientated Flaming Park dirt track knows how important seizing an early advantage can be even in turf races.
It so happens, after a ride by Kabelo Matsunyane up in Durban, Prinsloo worked out that a pace-pressing style suits Quickstepgal best. She relaxes better when on the lead and can quicken from that position - a tactical combination which makes her a tough nut to crack.
Quickstepgal duly pinged the gates, went to the lead, controlled the pace perfectly and a 23.6 closing sectional got the job done.
Reet Petite followed her in second all the way around the track, succumbing by .75 lengths.
Wish List caught the eye running on from midfield against a track profile which played favorably to handy types around the turn. Her 23.2 second 400m to finish fraction proved good enough for third, two lengths off the winner.
Quickstepgal’s performance merited a speed figure of 103, with sectional upgrade.
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.
Last edit: 4 months 1 week ago by Mark van Deventer.
The following user(s) said Thank You: Dave Scott, Sylvester
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Re: From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
4 months 4 days ago - 4 months 4 days ago
Cape Guineas Day 2025 Preview
There is a fantastic card of racing a Kenilworth on Saturday, including the Gr 1 Cape Guineas, Gr 2 Green Point Stakes, Gr 2 Cape Merchants, Gr 3 Victress Stakes and the Gr 3 Peninsula Handicap.
Mark van Deventer’s podcast which comes out on Saturday morning will go through each race in some detail. Meanwhile this blog will highlight several horses across the card that look enticing betting prospects. They can be punted individually, hooked up in bet-builder multis or used creatively in the exotic pools.
Churchillian is set to carry 63.5kg’s in a Class 4, quite some burden for a 3YO. Yet he gave weight and nearly beat Demanding Dave who ran a fine figure of 98 on Wednesday so is clearly a very smart sprinter. Bass Racing’s entry goes in Race 3, opening leg of the PA.
Swiatek s/s 101 and Red Palace s/s 104 are the top picks in the Victress Stakes. Swiatek gave multiple Gr 1 winning stable mate Double Grand Slam a scare three weeks ago and comes in here carrying just 52.5kg’s. Justin Snaith’s runner is a query going nine panels for the first time but possesses a nice turn of foot which she can try using to run down her rivals.
There are no stamina doubts for Red Palace and her career best came over this course and distance in the 2025 Paddock Stakes. She made a decent comeback after a long layoff behind Legal Counsel and, if Dean Kannemeyer has her ready to roll second up after that break, she will be tough to pass.
The Cape Merchants is a hard- to- fathom handicap for top quality sprinters over 1200m. Bookies go 6/1 the field which shows just how open it is.
The shortlist comprises O’Tenikwa s/s 114, I am Giant s/s 109, Raven Black s/s 108, Café Culture s/s 108, Outlaw King s/s 107 and The US of A s/s 107. Check the conditions on race day to see if there is any track bias down the straight, then shop around for the best prices on Interbet’s new exchange before committing.
The Green Point Stakes run at WFA over 1600m is, by SA standards, worthy of an upgrade to Gr 1 class. It has a stellar Roll of Honour and this year’s field features seven Gr 1 victors.
The Real Prince s/s 114 gets the nod. He has run tremendous races between 1400m and 2200 (won the Durban July) and a true run mile should suit him nicely coming out fresh.
Many dangers are lurking in a deep field. Gladatorian s/s 113 beat him in the Drill Hall Stakes and Champions; Sail the Seas s/s 105+ is an emerging talent, whilst Dave the King s/s 113 and See It Again s/s 110 are established high class campaigners.
Questioning s/s 114 was mighty impressive in the Matchem and will try stretch out to a mile and deliver a similar performance. If he can replicate that last-to first romp, then he is in with a winning chance.
A horse to watch really closely for the future is Fire Attack s/s 113 +. Saturday’s contest over a mile from a wide draw probably won’t see him to best effect but he is of genuine interest for the upcoming 2026 Met. Should he run nicely here, then an each way ante-post wager for the big middle-distance Gr 1 beckons.
Gimmie Rules s/s 100+ and Jan van Goyen s/s 100 dominate the betting market for the Cape Guineas. Both are exactly on the winning standard score for this historic 3YO race and should improve past that number. Their respective trainers Dean Kannemeyer and Mike de Kock are seasoned Guineas- winning trainers, but whether you want to take fairly short prices about either of their charges winning is a personal choice.
Value seekers may prefer Justin Snaith’s trio of Randolph Hearst, Happy Verse and Roland Garros at double digit odds. They all have similar ratings in the high 90’s and should contend if improving a few ticks.
Longshot players can check out Aristocratic s/s 100 at 50/1 (who ran deceptively well in the Matchem) and Beware who got a s/s of 99+ in a surprisingly strong Class 4, at around 30/1 . Some big- priced outsiders are fool’s gold, but these two have numbers which suggest they could hit the board if things go their way in what is often a rough, toughly contested race.
Zeitz s/s 107, Regulation s/s 105 + and Major Master s/s 103 are the ones to focus on in the Peninsula. The first named let the side down last time and blinkers have been removed by trainer Andre Nel. If the grey Vercingetorix runs back to his Cup Trial or Thekwini form, then he could be hard to handle off his current official handicap mark.
Regulation destroyed the oppo at his most recent course and distance start, running a career top figure carrying 58kg’s. He now drops to 53kg’s and is a serious threat now that his breathing issues have seemingly been cleared. He has been heavily punted ante-post.
Major Master was most impressive coming from behind Tenpenny and dashing past him just ten days ago over 1500m. If 1800m proves his game, then he could give it a serious shake.
Finally, in Race 9, Marcus Aurelius s/s 99 and Yamakazi s/s 98 are taken against the field in a Class 4 over 1600m. Gavin Lerena rides the former again after producing a fast come home sectional in an admittedly weaker race, whilst a good showing by Beware in the Cape Guineas would enhance confidence in 10/1 Yamakazi’s chances as he was only 1.5 lengths off that rival at level weights a month ago.
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.
There is a fantastic card of racing a Kenilworth on Saturday, including the Gr 1 Cape Guineas, Gr 2 Green Point Stakes, Gr 2 Cape Merchants, Gr 3 Victress Stakes and the Gr 3 Peninsula Handicap.
Mark van Deventer’s podcast which comes out on Saturday morning will go through each race in some detail. Meanwhile this blog will highlight several horses across the card that look enticing betting prospects. They can be punted individually, hooked up in bet-builder multis or used creatively in the exotic pools.
Churchillian is set to carry 63.5kg’s in a Class 4, quite some burden for a 3YO. Yet he gave weight and nearly beat Demanding Dave who ran a fine figure of 98 on Wednesday so is clearly a very smart sprinter. Bass Racing’s entry goes in Race 3, opening leg of the PA.
Swiatek s/s 101 and Red Palace s/s 104 are the top picks in the Victress Stakes. Swiatek gave multiple Gr 1 winning stable mate Double Grand Slam a scare three weeks ago and comes in here carrying just 52.5kg’s. Justin Snaith’s runner is a query going nine panels for the first time but possesses a nice turn of foot which she can try using to run down her rivals.
There are no stamina doubts for Red Palace and her career best came over this course and distance in the 2025 Paddock Stakes. She made a decent comeback after a long layoff behind Legal Counsel and, if Dean Kannemeyer has her ready to roll second up after that break, she will be tough to pass.
The Cape Merchants is a hard- to- fathom handicap for top quality sprinters over 1200m. Bookies go 6/1 the field which shows just how open it is.
The shortlist comprises O’Tenikwa s/s 114, I am Giant s/s 109, Raven Black s/s 108, Café Culture s/s 108, Outlaw King s/s 107 and The US of A s/s 107. Check the conditions on race day to see if there is any track bias down the straight, then shop around for the best prices on Interbet’s new exchange before committing.
The Green Point Stakes run at WFA over 1600m is, by SA standards, worthy of an upgrade to Gr 1 class. It has a stellar Roll of Honour and this year’s field features seven Gr 1 victors.
The Real Prince s/s 114 gets the nod. He has run tremendous races between 1400m and 2200 (won the Durban July) and a true run mile should suit him nicely coming out fresh.
Many dangers are lurking in a deep field. Gladatorian s/s 113 beat him in the Drill Hall Stakes and Champions; Sail the Seas s/s 105+ is an emerging talent, whilst Dave the King s/s 113 and See It Again s/s 110 are established high class campaigners.
Questioning s/s 114 was mighty impressive in the Matchem and will try stretch out to a mile and deliver a similar performance. If he can replicate that last-to first romp, then he is in with a winning chance.
A horse to watch really closely for the future is Fire Attack s/s 113 +. Saturday’s contest over a mile from a wide draw probably won’t see him to best effect but he is of genuine interest for the upcoming 2026 Met. Should he run nicely here, then an each way ante-post wager for the big middle-distance Gr 1 beckons.
Gimmie Rules s/s 100+ and Jan van Goyen s/s 100 dominate the betting market for the Cape Guineas. Both are exactly on the winning standard score for this historic 3YO race and should improve past that number. Their respective trainers Dean Kannemeyer and Mike de Kock are seasoned Guineas- winning trainers, but whether you want to take fairly short prices about either of their charges winning is a personal choice.
Value seekers may prefer Justin Snaith’s trio of Randolph Hearst, Happy Verse and Roland Garros at double digit odds. They all have similar ratings in the high 90’s and should contend if improving a few ticks.
Longshot players can check out Aristocratic s/s 100 at 50/1 (who ran deceptively well in the Matchem) and Beware who got a s/s of 99+ in a surprisingly strong Class 4, at around 30/1 . Some big- priced outsiders are fool’s gold, but these two have numbers which suggest they could hit the board if things go their way in what is often a rough, toughly contested race.
Zeitz s/s 107, Regulation s/s 105 + and Major Master s/s 103 are the ones to focus on in the Peninsula. The first named let the side down last time and blinkers have been removed by trainer Andre Nel. If the grey Vercingetorix runs back to his Cup Trial or Thekwini form, then he could be hard to handle off his current official handicap mark.
Regulation destroyed the oppo at his most recent course and distance start, running a career top figure carrying 58kg’s. He now drops to 53kg’s and is a serious threat now that his breathing issues have seemingly been cleared. He has been heavily punted ante-post.
Major Master was most impressive coming from behind Tenpenny and dashing past him just ten days ago over 1500m. If 1800m proves his game, then he could give it a serious shake.
Finally, in Race 9, Marcus Aurelius s/s 99 and Yamakazi s/s 98 are taken against the field in a Class 4 over 1600m. Gavin Lerena rides the former again after producing a fast come home sectional in an admittedly weaker race, whilst a good showing by Beware in the Cape Guineas would enhance confidence in 10/1 Yamakazi’s chances as he was only 1.5 lengths off that rival at level weights a month ago.
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.
Last edit: 4 months 4 days ago by Mark van Deventer.
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Re: From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
4 months 2 days ago - 4 months 2 days ago
Jan van Gooyen say’s “totsiens”
Commentator Alistair Cohen added appropriate color to the conclusion of the 2025 Cape Guineas, calling out “Jan van Gooyen says totsiens…” as the Mike and Mathew de Kock trained 3 YO streaked away from rivals.
It was quite the training feat to bring the son of Master of My Fate down from Jozi two weeks after a second placed finish to Trust in the Dingaans when slightly underdone due to an interrupted training program.
This is a second Gr 1 for Jan van Gooyen as he took out the Premiers Champion Stakes at the end of July when a juvenile. He may not be physically imposing but fine athletes come in all shapes and sizes – and this guy can run. An excellent speed figure of 104 with a come home sectional of 103% of final time shows that Callan Murray judged it perfectly on a steed who proved much the best.
The placings were filled by Happy Verse s/s 98 Randolph Hearst 98 and Gimmie Rules s/s 97 with poorly drawn, stretch runner Fox on the Run s/s 97 next.
Murray really pulled off a front running steal in the Green Point Stakes on Dave the King s/s 101 with a milk- wagon slow closing fractional at 98% of final time. They dueled with Snow Pilot early, put that one away, then made a quick dash for glory which paid off – but only just as the cavalry tried belatedly to make up a big deficit.
Head second, Garrix s/s 100 which is worth 107 ++ after a sectional upgrade, ran the final 400m in two seconds faster (which is an eternity in racing) than Dave the King. Accordingly, he and a revived, See It Again are the horses to highlight from the 1600m Green Point for future reference.
Take nothing away from the super-fit de Kock conditioned, Dave the King, however. The former HOTY is a tough, high-class competitor who is ideally suited to 1600/1800m where he can sustain a powerful tempo and make his own luck racing on or near the lead.
Outlaw King (s/s 103) just snuck in to defend his crown in the Merchants. But he was all out to hold off a charging I am Giant. Winning trainer Dean Kannameyer praised Outlaw King for showing courage in a tight finish and for lifting his performance by winning off a 9-pound higher mark than in 2024.
Canny Alec Laird saddled Sukhumvit s/s 100 to win the Victress Stakes. He explained that she would pull as a younger filly and dissipate her energy, running plenty of places but only managing a solitary win from 11 starts.
Now that she has grown up, she settles better and Philisande Mxoli was able to ration her speed more evenly. None could go with the low weight as she cleared off for a convincing victory. Laird reckons she has now earned the right to try her luck in the Gr 1 Paddock Stakes, even if it will be a hard task for her at the weights.
Regulation and Major Master s/s 107 earned big numbers in the Peninsula. Look, both carried light weights and the finishing sectionals were unremarkable but nevertheless based on those strong speed figures they can contest stronger races than this Gr 3.
Regulation prevailed in a rousing finish to land a heavy market plunge. The Snaith trained runner is testimony to the excellent work of vet, Andrew Gray, who fixed up a serious wind problem that threatened to scupper the Legislate ex Riva gelding aspirations.
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.
Commentator Alistair Cohen added appropriate color to the conclusion of the 2025 Cape Guineas, calling out “Jan van Gooyen says totsiens…” as the Mike and Mathew de Kock trained 3 YO streaked away from rivals.
It was quite the training feat to bring the son of Master of My Fate down from Jozi two weeks after a second placed finish to Trust in the Dingaans when slightly underdone due to an interrupted training program.
This is a second Gr 1 for Jan van Gooyen as he took out the Premiers Champion Stakes at the end of July when a juvenile. He may not be physically imposing but fine athletes come in all shapes and sizes – and this guy can run. An excellent speed figure of 104 with a come home sectional of 103% of final time shows that Callan Murray judged it perfectly on a steed who proved much the best.
The placings were filled by Happy Verse s/s 98 Randolph Hearst 98 and Gimmie Rules s/s 97 with poorly drawn, stretch runner Fox on the Run s/s 97 next.
Murray really pulled off a front running steal in the Green Point Stakes on Dave the King s/s 101 with a milk- wagon slow closing fractional at 98% of final time. They dueled with Snow Pilot early, put that one away, then made a quick dash for glory which paid off – but only just as the cavalry tried belatedly to make up a big deficit.
Head second, Garrix s/s 100 which is worth 107 ++ after a sectional upgrade, ran the final 400m in two seconds faster (which is an eternity in racing) than Dave the King. Accordingly, he and a revived, See It Again are the horses to highlight from the 1600m Green Point for future reference.
Take nothing away from the super-fit de Kock conditioned, Dave the King, however. The former HOTY is a tough, high-class competitor who is ideally suited to 1600/1800m where he can sustain a powerful tempo and make his own luck racing on or near the lead.
Outlaw King (s/s 103) just snuck in to defend his crown in the Merchants. But he was all out to hold off a charging I am Giant. Winning trainer Dean Kannameyer praised Outlaw King for showing courage in a tight finish and for lifting his performance by winning off a 9-pound higher mark than in 2024.
Canny Alec Laird saddled Sukhumvit s/s 100 to win the Victress Stakes. He explained that she would pull as a younger filly and dissipate her energy, running plenty of places but only managing a solitary win from 11 starts.
Now that she has grown up, she settles better and Philisande Mxoli was able to ration her speed more evenly. None could go with the low weight as she cleared off for a convincing victory. Laird reckons she has now earned the right to try her luck in the Gr 1 Paddock Stakes, even if it will be a hard task for her at the weights.
Regulation and Major Master s/s 107 earned big numbers in the Peninsula. Look, both carried light weights and the finishing sectionals were unremarkable but nevertheless based on those strong speed figures they can contest stronger races than this Gr 3.
Regulation prevailed in a rousing finish to land a heavy market plunge. The Snaith trained runner is testimony to the excellent work of vet, Andrew Gray, who fixed up a serious wind problem that threatened to scupper the Legislate ex Riva gelding aspirations.
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.
Last edit: 4 months 2 days ago by Mark van Deventer.
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Re: From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
3 months 4 weeks ago - 3 months 4 weeks ago
Weekend Racing Article - Friday, 19 December 2025
The old timers in racing would say that having a good memory was essential for success. Before the advent of computers with massive storage capacity, being able to remember significant happenings could be extremely useful when constructing smart bets months later.
Being mathematically apt remains a useful skill in punting nowadays but again high- tech tools which can calculate speed, handicap ratings and odd probabilities automatically have removed some of the edge from the sharp number crunchers.
One attribute which remains as important as ever are visual skills. The ability to read a race and pick up subtle things which happen to horses as they jostle at speed in a pack can pinpoint clever future bets.
The Americans came up with a name, “trip handicapping,” to describe these methods.
They would scrutinise races live, take careful notes off replays and highlight horses that ran well despite finding trouble or when disadvantaged by the track bias.
This is an approach which is subjective and does not lend itself to easy quantification. Rather than being a weakness, the strength of trip handicapping sees astute race watchers formulate opinions that are often contrary to what mainstream handicappers, focussed solely with the data around finishing positions, arrive at in their calculations.
Ideally both approaches can be combined. Do the figures for sure - but relate the speed score/merit rating earned to the type of trip the horse in question had in a particular race.
Horses that were gifted easy trips may not be as good as they look on paper. And the opposite may apply, too. A horse with weak numbers may have been prejudiced by how the race was run and should be upgraded.
Punters can search for horses earning neat figures despite encountering troubled trips. They should be upgraded and often represent good bets when they next run, assuming the effort under adverse circumstances did not take too much out of them.
I am Sam from Peter Muscutt’s yard runs in race 2 at Kenilworth on Sunday. His debut figure in the low 70’s is unremarkable. But the trip he suffered when held up, blocked at the back of the field, then switched in a sprint before staying on purposefully, suggests he is many lengths better than the bare form behind Loving Prague.
Gavin Lerena rides and this son of The United States is one to keep onside. Maybe the 3YO will illustrate the importance of watching races carefully and not just basing judgements on the bare finishing result.
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.
The old timers in racing would say that having a good memory was essential for success. Before the advent of computers with massive storage capacity, being able to remember significant happenings could be extremely useful when constructing smart bets months later.
Being mathematically apt remains a useful skill in punting nowadays but again high- tech tools which can calculate speed, handicap ratings and odd probabilities automatically have removed some of the edge from the sharp number crunchers.
One attribute which remains as important as ever are visual skills. The ability to read a race and pick up subtle things which happen to horses as they jostle at speed in a pack can pinpoint clever future bets.
The Americans came up with a name, “trip handicapping,” to describe these methods.
They would scrutinise races live, take careful notes off replays and highlight horses that ran well despite finding trouble or when disadvantaged by the track bias.
This is an approach which is subjective and does not lend itself to easy quantification. Rather than being a weakness, the strength of trip handicapping sees astute race watchers formulate opinions that are often contrary to what mainstream handicappers, focussed solely with the data around finishing positions, arrive at in their calculations.
Ideally both approaches can be combined. Do the figures for sure - but relate the speed score/merit rating earned to the type of trip the horse in question had in a particular race.
Horses that were gifted easy trips may not be as good as they look on paper. And the opposite may apply, too. A horse with weak numbers may have been prejudiced by how the race was run and should be upgraded.
Punters can search for horses earning neat figures despite encountering troubled trips. They should be upgraded and often represent good bets when they next run, assuming the effort under adverse circumstances did not take too much out of them.
I am Sam from Peter Muscutt’s yard runs in race 2 at Kenilworth on Sunday. His debut figure in the low 70’s is unremarkable. But the trip he suffered when held up, blocked at the back of the field, then switched in a sprint before staying on purposefully, suggests he is many lengths better than the bare form behind Loving Prague.
Gavin Lerena rides and this son of The United States is one to keep onside. Maybe the 3YO will illustrate the importance of watching races carefully and not just basing judgements on the bare finishing result.
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.
Last edit: 3 months 4 weeks ago by Mark van Deventer.
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Re: From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
3 months 3 weeks ago - 3 months 3 weeks ago
Mastership wins the Grand Heritage - Monday, 22 December 2025
Mastership s/s 95 won the Grand Heritage at the Vaal on Saturday, beating off 20 rivals.
Being positioned near the outside rail down the straight course seemed to be the best place to be and Diane Stenger’s entry kept on resolutely after racing prominently to stave off the late lunge of Rollo the Viking s/s 94 who flashed home under Muzi Yeni right against the stand side rail.
Mastership was ridden by Marco van Rensburg, who has been successful in the Grand Heritage twice before.
100/1 shot Bob’s Your Uncle held third for trifectas just ahead of Sonic Jet s/s 93 who led for a long wide down the centre, tracked by Obsidian s/s 92.
A couple of races later, Wayne s/s 90 caught the eye over the same course and distance, ambling to victory. The 3YO trained by Lucky Houdalakis is worth following as Gavin Lerena said afterwards of the still immature November foal that he has a fine action and there is definitely “something there”. Wayne stuck to the inside from his low gate and kicked clear to win under wraps to justify a big market plunge.
All the Rage is a smart young sprinter. Put under more pressure in morning workouts by Candice Bass, he responded with a career top performance under Aldo Domeyer at Kenilworth on Sunday. His speed figure of 103 + is excellent for a 3YO in December and he should be followed.
Bass and Domeyer were on the money with Tanneron, too. She streaked clear of Sohot Sowhat, worth a figure of 96 +, though she has managed even higher getting a fig of 98 in the Laisserfaire. She is at the peak of her powers now.
That was her 15th start. Statistically, many horses reach their career top figures between their 11th and 15th starts. Obviously, it depends how they are campaigned and individual quirks come into it, too. But it often pays to follow in form horses at that stage of their racing careers when they possess the ideal blend of vitality and maturity.
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.
Mastership s/s 95 won the Grand Heritage at the Vaal on Saturday, beating off 20 rivals.
Being positioned near the outside rail down the straight course seemed to be the best place to be and Diane Stenger’s entry kept on resolutely after racing prominently to stave off the late lunge of Rollo the Viking s/s 94 who flashed home under Muzi Yeni right against the stand side rail.
Mastership was ridden by Marco van Rensburg, who has been successful in the Grand Heritage twice before.
100/1 shot Bob’s Your Uncle held third for trifectas just ahead of Sonic Jet s/s 93 who led for a long wide down the centre, tracked by Obsidian s/s 92.
A couple of races later, Wayne s/s 90 caught the eye over the same course and distance, ambling to victory. The 3YO trained by Lucky Houdalakis is worth following as Gavin Lerena said afterwards of the still immature November foal that he has a fine action and there is definitely “something there”. Wayne stuck to the inside from his low gate and kicked clear to win under wraps to justify a big market plunge.
All the Rage is a smart young sprinter. Put under more pressure in morning workouts by Candice Bass, he responded with a career top performance under Aldo Domeyer at Kenilworth on Sunday. His speed figure of 103 + is excellent for a 3YO in December and he should be followed.
Bass and Domeyer were on the money with Tanneron, too. She streaked clear of Sohot Sowhat, worth a figure of 96 +, though she has managed even higher getting a fig of 98 in the Laisserfaire. She is at the peak of her powers now.
That was her 15th start. Statistically, many horses reach their career top figures between their 11th and 15th starts. Obviously, it depends how they are campaigned and individual quirks come into it, too. But it often pays to follow in form horses at that stage of their racing careers when they possess the ideal blend of vitality and maturity.
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.
Last edit: 3 months 3 weeks ago by Mark van Deventer.
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Re: From the Horse’s Mouth by Mark Van Deventer - Dec 25
3 months 2 weeks ago - 3 months 2 weeks ago
One Stripe opens account in North America - 30 December 2025
Trainer Tony Peter won a third straight Lebelo Sprint when Taxi to the Moon (s/s 105) sustained a strong gallop all the way to hold out Truth s/s 104. The runner up had also raced handy, towards the outer, but could not get to Taxi to the Moon.
Peter also saddled third placed Pistol Pete s/s 103 who stayed on quickly under a heavy weight.
Charge It s/s 97, winner of the War of Athena, is a full sister to Surcharge who won Gr 1’s in Australia under the name of Yulong Prince. She was positioned on the rail in midfield and made smooth progress when the speed fell away. She is trained by Alyson Wright.
Charge It defeated Soldier’s Eye s/s 96 and Gerbera s/s 95. Callmegterix s/s 105 received a beautiful ride by Mickaele Michel to win a Pinnacle Stakes and continue her excellent form on the Highveld for Sean Tarry.
She consistently hits smart figures in the band between 100 and 105 and was always going comfortably tracking pacemaker, Son Of Raj. After making a decisive move in mid-stretch, she had the race sewn up. Callmegtrix was followed in by a well beaten, The Equator s/s 99 who has three times run in the upper 90’s without quite being able to get into triple digits.
One Stripe’s s/s of 113 was his peak effort in SA before being shipped to America. Any horse leaving SA goes through a rigorous and grueling odyssey to reach their intended destination and it is touch and go whether they fulfill their potential on distant shores.
After a couple of prep runs (which were somewhat rushed) he appears to have eventually settled in under trainer Graham Motion and won authoritatively at Gulfstream Park. Jockey, John Velazquez made a race-winning move at just the right moment – whilst bad things were happening to market rival General Davis who was trapped in a pocket on the bend.
It remains to be seen if his North American career takes off. He won untroubled, but will need to at least equal or preferably improve on his best SA 3yo figure to make an impact.
To provide historical context, his top South African speed score of 113 compares just fine to the local figs of other well-performed exports such as JJ the Jet Plane s/s 115, Variety Club s/s 114 Surcharge s/s 112, National Colour s/s 111, Private Jet s/s 109 and s/s Shea Shea s/s 111.
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.
Trainer Tony Peter won a third straight Lebelo Sprint when Taxi to the Moon (s/s 105) sustained a strong gallop all the way to hold out Truth s/s 104. The runner up had also raced handy, towards the outer, but could not get to Taxi to the Moon.
Peter also saddled third placed Pistol Pete s/s 103 who stayed on quickly under a heavy weight.
Charge It s/s 97, winner of the War of Athena, is a full sister to Surcharge who won Gr 1’s in Australia under the name of Yulong Prince. She was positioned on the rail in midfield and made smooth progress when the speed fell away. She is trained by Alyson Wright.
Charge It defeated Soldier’s Eye s/s 96 and Gerbera s/s 95. Callmegterix s/s 105 received a beautiful ride by Mickaele Michel to win a Pinnacle Stakes and continue her excellent form on the Highveld for Sean Tarry.
She consistently hits smart figures in the band between 100 and 105 and was always going comfortably tracking pacemaker, Son Of Raj. After making a decisive move in mid-stretch, she had the race sewn up. Callmegtrix was followed in by a well beaten, The Equator s/s 99 who has three times run in the upper 90’s without quite being able to get into triple digits.
One Stripe’s s/s of 113 was his peak effort in SA before being shipped to America. Any horse leaving SA goes through a rigorous and grueling odyssey to reach their intended destination and it is touch and go whether they fulfill their potential on distant shores.
After a couple of prep runs (which were somewhat rushed) he appears to have eventually settled in under trainer Graham Motion and won authoritatively at Gulfstream Park. Jockey, John Velazquez made a race-winning move at just the right moment – whilst bad things were happening to market rival General Davis who was trapped in a pocket on the bend.
It remains to be seen if his North American career takes off. He won untroubled, but will need to at least equal or preferably improve on his best SA 3yo figure to make an impact.
To provide historical context, his top South African speed score of 113 compares just fine to the local figs of other well-performed exports such as JJ the Jet Plane s/s 115, Variety Club s/s 114 Surcharge s/s 112, National Colour s/s 111, Private Jet s/s 109 and s/s Shea Shea s/s 111.
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.
Last edit: 3 months 2 weeks ago by Mark van Deventer.
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