Accurately crafted speed figures are especially useful in putting
> reputations to the test. Whilst juvenile form can be notoriously difficult
> to assess using conventional handicapping methods, the excellent debut
> figure of 97 obtained by highly rated Var colt, Zinedine at Kenilworth
> suggests that he is indeed extremely talented. His dam, Right Royal Diva
> was also held in high esteem by connections, until her racing career was
> abruptly ended after being bitten by a snake. Zinedine, trained by Vaughan
> Marshall, bulleted home with a swift closing sectional, and must be
> followed.
>
> Champagne Haze (s/s 108) rallied from the back of the field to fittingly
> sweep the Grade 3 Tommy Hotspur Sprint at Turffontein for the Alexander
> stable. This gelding had not won in 329 days and the 1000m trip was
> thought to be a bit sharp, yet he was really patiently handled by Lyall
> Hewitson. As the early exertions caused the pace-setters to fold, they
> blasted by to win convincingly and earn this big figure. The second placed
> horse, Greasepaint (s/s 102) was also sired by Kahal at Summerhill Stud.
>
> Pacific Trader is an up and coming sprinter in Cape Town. The bare bones
> of his form lines may not give that much away, yet the speed figures
> calculated after taking the course variant into account are revealing. The
> son of Sail From Seattle has run escalating numbers of 95, 99 and now 101,
> suggesting way above average ability.
>
> This inexpensive buy at 150K from Ascot Stud has won two of three starts –
> it will be interesting to see how he shapes when astute trainer Brett
> Crawford decides to pitch him in against tougher opposition. His numbers
> suggest he could be up to the task against stronger rivals, so Interbet
> punters should find it worthwhile following Pacific Trader as he moves
> through the divisions.”
