Pistol Pete (speed score 103) was fancied to win the Lebelo Sprint – a G3 at Turffontein on Saturday. He got the job done – but only just as Netttleton (s/s 102) nearly dived past the Tony Peter trained favourite.
The winner pressed the pace, was ridden hard to take the lead, and was all out to stave off the challenge off the lightly weighted mare. Magic Tattoo (s/s 102) and Time fo Orchids (s/s 102) stayed on under a length off Pistol Pete in a blanket finish.
The same speed figure of 103 was attained by Chocolate Soldier in an earlier sprint – the Sophomore 1000 for 3YO’s. Almond Sea, from the Peter stable, was favoured to win, but ended up well beaten three lengths off Corne Spies’ surprise 20/1 victor.
Potberri (s/s 100) was responsible for the other big number put up on the Highveld. Here, Weiho Marwing’s Grey Jet was backed into odds on to triumph but could not match St John Gray’s entry who had a somewhat spotty record (just one win from 12 starts going into the race) but really came to light on the soft going with a triple digit figure.
The three best figures from Kenilworth meeting were scored by Major Master (s/s 95), Bluff on Bluff (s/s 93) and Babelicious (s/s 90.) Nothing earth-shattering in those numbers – just solid performances for their respective class levels.
Maybe Iconic Destination (s/s 94), just pipped by Major Master, is an esoteric horse to take out of the race. Jockey Corne Orffer said that Iconic Destination, who practically could barely get air in before, has come through a most successful breathing op and is not making any noises at all. Andre Nel’s revived entry is worth following at his next couple of starts to confirm his current health and well-being.
Next week’s big meeting is the King’s Plate. Interbet will carry the full exotic betting menu on the Tote platform and offer the best fixed odds prices around. Check out the Interbet exchange – you’ll be amazed how the overround percentages drop closer to the off time, enabling value-orientated punters to get on at generous prices.