The scratching of Melech opened the door for Argo Alley (s/s 101) to win a Pinnacle Stakes at Turffontein on Saturday, though, after making a mid-race move and looking a sure winner, he was all out staving off a determined bid from Callmegetrix (s/s 100.)
The son of unheralded stallion Argonaut, has compiled a fine record for St John Gray, winning nine times as a sprinter/miler. 1450m on the inside track suits ideally.
As for the runner up, Vercingeterix mare, Callmegetrix is one of the most consistent horses in SA. Regardless of which center she races in, punters can be sure she will contend. She has only missed the money twice from 23 starts – clocking in fifth over 1800m which may have stretched her stamina, and then when below best in the ruck behind Gr 1 star, Double Grand Slam at Greyville.
Nyaka Nyaka s/s 99 and Gimmethegoodlife s/s 97 earned smart figures in the following race. The strong pace set by Rollwiththepunches teed up a quick final time. Sure, Nyaka Nyaka carried a light weight but for a three-year-old to get a speed score in the high 90’s in early September is noteworthy, and this son of Rabada can go on to win more races.
His Tony Peter trained stable companion only just missed, emerging with credit. Gimmethegoodlife started out in the Cape (where he showed little), spent winter time productively in KZN and now is set to continue his sharp form into Spring on the Highveld.
SA fans following the American exploits of Gimme a Nother were thrilled to see her take a Gr 2 at Del Mar, outfinishing odds-on favourite, Medoro in the John C Maybee Stakes. She ran excellent numbers between 110 and 112 in this country so it’s no surprise that she is competing with distinction in North America. Previously, she just missed by a head in the Gr 2 Canadian Stakes at Woodbine.
In other overseas action Ka Ying Rising, arguably the best sprinter in the world, romped to an unextended victory (s/s 115 +++) on opening day of the 2025/26 Hong Kong season at Sha Tin. He is targeting the Everest in Australia and if surpassing his usual figures in the ballpark between 118 – 120 plus (which he manages effortlessly), should be extremely hard to beat there.