Running Brave (speed score 101) looked to be the sole front-runner in the KZN Breeders Mile and duly went all the way under Muzi Yeni. Lone speed horses are a threat at any distance, surface and any track, yet punters were deterred by her modest last two efforts, allowing Paul Matchett’s charge to start as a 35/1 outsider.
Nexus challenged right down the straight with dual Fillies Guineas winner, Mississippi Burning also trying her best to close but they were held safe by the Summerhill Stud’s resurgent, Brave Tin Soldier filly.
Heavily-backed Ad Altisima (s/s 96) came to light in the Summerhill Natal Breeders 1200. He too was boldly ridden to the front by Serino Moodley, keeping on strongly for a pillar to post victory, after confident supporters got this one spot on – punting Michael Roberts’’ runner in from 8/1 into 33/10.
The term “rank outsider” is often used loosely to refer to any long shot. 80/1 Moon In June fits the literal description as a genuine bottom-of-the-board shock winner of the Track & Ball G2 Oaks. She came from dead last to outrun Kelpie and Ballet Shoes as all three made wide sweeping moves from the tail of the field. Trained by the Hill’s, Moon in June is by Twice Over. She was patiently ridden by Craig Zackey when making a successful first try over 2400m, a trip she clearly relished.
Earlier on the Greyville card, Winter Smoke got a big figure of 97 when easily winning the opening Poly race. No surprises there as she’d ran fourth in a G1 at her previous start. The horse to take out of the race is second placed, Magical Flight (s/s 91) – Sean Tarry’s improving Willow Magic filly will soon be going into No 1 box.
Just five sleeps to go before July day. Be sure to check out the Interbet site for early betting, news and special wagering promotions in the build up to Saturday’s exciting program.