New Predator (speed score 103 +) won the Charity Mile at Turffontein, just beating off Saratoga Dancer (s/s 102) and a rejuvenated, Deo Juvente (s/s 102)The victor had previously run figures of 105 behind Noah from Goa and when beating Triptique, so has the scope to go even higher. The efforts of both placed horses bode well for their dip at the 2016 Summer Cup.
Saratoga Dancer was held a bit tight in this drive to the line, whilst Deo Juvente was stiff last year when tangling with stable mate Master Sabina, and then his Cape mission was wrecked when cut by a broken bottle left in the sand.
There were other notable performances on the strong card. Bull Valley (s/s 105) is a smart sprinter and he came back from yet another layoff to edge out Tar Heel (s/s 104) in the Golden Loom handicap. The lightly-raced Toreador gelding is perfect 4/4 over sprints and can keep on winning if remaining sound.
In Grade 3 races for the youngsters, She’s a Giver (s/s 101) was most impressive when throwing a tow rope to her opposition. The daughter of Philanthropist handled stronger rivals with ease, adding to the Janse van Vuuren/Lerena haul on the day. The hot trainer/ jockey combo for New Predator also cleaned up on Saturday with Doosra (s/s 94 +) sneaking in to win the Graham Beck Stakes, though that was nip and tuck compared to She’s a Giver’s romp. Doosra only just lasted to stave off Heavenly Blue (s/s 94+) and Singapore Sling (s/s 93) in a close verdict.
Janse van Vuuren had another winner earlier on the program. Girl on The Run (s/s 95) kept on to lift the Yellowwood Handicap from Polyphonic (s/s 92). That one was ridden by Randall Simons who had steered her home at her most recent success in mid October.
Trainer Mike de Kock, narrowly denied with Heavenly Blue in that photo finish to the Graham Beck Stakes, struck back with Janoobi (s/s 93 ++)who enjoyed the longer route trying a mile for the first time. Janoobi absolutely hammered upset Ready to Run Cup victor Chili Con Carne (who sports a figure of 99) back in February, so has the potential to run some big numbers. Now a winner of half his six starts, Janoobi is worth taking seriously in upcoming features…