Pleasetomeetyou (speed score 101) got a glowing write up back in August after making an exceptional debut (s/s 100) over the Kenilworth 1000m trip. He followed up on that by winning the Sophomore Sprint, then twice failed to last home in 1400m and 1200m contests. Back over a fast 1000m, the Querari gelding proved too swift for a good field of youngsters. Only a low flying Russet Air (s/s 99, with a fast 22.2 second 400m to finish burst) got within spitting distance.
In nearing the end of 2018, we’re half way through the current racing season. Reflecting on National Trainer stats, familiar names can be found on top of the Log. Sean Tarry, Justin Snaith, Mike de Kock, Alan Greeff and Brett Crawford continue to dominate the training ranks based on prize money earned. It’s a hectically competitive profession being a race-horse conditioner with strike rates clustered in a narrow band between 12% and 16% – nobody in the country currently exceeds a 17% hit rate.
There are high percentage jocks that tower the rest, though. Perennial favourites Anton Marcus, Gavin Lerena and Richard Fourie are still counted upon by punters in Durban, Joburg and Cape Town respectively to maintain strike rates above 25% and get the job done.
A quirky stat worth checking out is the return on investment to a level stake of R1. Admittedly, this can be skewed by a few long shot wins but may also reveal hidden value in the ability of a trainer or jock that the betting market and public masses under-estimate. Vaughan Marshall, Andre Nel and Alan Greeff are in positive territory amongst the horseman. S’manga Khumalo, Corne Orffer and Mark Khan are hoops showing a level stakes profit after six months of the season, based on the SA Horseracing database.
All the very best over the Festive Season – enjoy a relaxing and fun-filled break. And may the New Year yield a bounty of winners to all our loyal and new Interbet racing fans!