Kenilworth was the scene for top quality racing on Saturday. Labelled the Investec Day Of Dreams, it featured the Cape Derby and Majorca Stakes, both Grade 1 events, together with the CTS Million Dollar, Africa’s richest horserace.
It’s my Turn (speed score 105) improved big-time, after three defeats in moderate handicaps, to win the Derby, with most punters caught looking the wrong way. He had been super-impressive when winning on debut, but those three subsequent fails put punters off. Brazuca (s/s 103) came from far back for second with Marinaresco (s/s 102) next and the fancied stable mate to the winner, Black Arthur (s/s 102) only managing fourth.
Inara (s/s 102) seemed primed to run a big one and she just got the better of high class filly, Same Jurisdiction (s/s 100) in the Majorca to clinch her third Grade 1 success. She has built up a fabulous record at the Cape, having won this same race and the Paddock Stakes last season.
The CTS Million Dollar was claimed in fluent fashion by Illuminator (s/s 108). This was an exceptional performance by the well-bought son of Trippi, purchased for 180K and now the earner of over R8 million from six starts! Since starting his career in early September, Illuminator has been held in very high regard by astute trainer Glen Puller, and vindicated that canny judgement with this great win. Boom filly Silver Mountain (s/s 106) tried hard to stave off the persistent challenge of Victorious Jay (s/s 106) in the centre, but neither could resist Illuminator’s late dart. Seventh Plain (s/s 103) ran gamely from a wide gate to sneak fifth ahead of Exit Here (s/s 102) who still picked up a healthy stake for his effort in a potent contest.