The O’Brien family will hold a commanding hand when the Betfred St Leger celebrates its 250th running at Doncaster on Saturday.

Aidan O’Brien and his son Joseph are responsible for seven of the 12 horses remaining in contention for the £700,000 Group One, headed by Derby winner Christmas Day, progressive stayer Enceladus and last-start Listed winner Highwayman.

Run over 2800 metres, the St Leger is the oldest of Britain’s five Classics and brings the curtain down on the country’s Classic season. This year’s milestone edition will be staged at 10.35pm Singapore time, with £396,970 awaiting the winner.

The headline act is Christmas Day, who will attempt to become the first horse since Reference Point in 1987 to complete the Derby–St Leger double.

A son of Camelot, Christmas Day produced his finest performance when defeating Maltese Cross at Epsom before finishing second in the Irish Derby and third behind the same rival in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York.

That York run came after a break of almost two months and should have brought him forward for Doncaster. He has also shown himself to be effective across a range of ground conditions, an important asset with the early forecast suggesting good-to-soft going.

Victory would continue Aidan O’Brien’s recent domination of the Classic. The Ballydoyle trainer has won the past three editions with Continuous, Jan Brueghel and Scandinavia, and is now chasing a fourth consecutive success.

However, Christmas Day may first have to account for several of his own stablemates.

Pierre Bonnard finished ahead of the Derby winner when chasing home the Arc-bound Maltese Cross in the Great Voltigeur. The son of Camelot was a Group One winner in the Criterium de Saint-Cloud as a juvenile and also stayed on strongly to finish third in the Irish Derby.

Although Pierre Bonnard has finished behind Christmas Day on three occasions this season, his latest performance at York suggested the longer St Leger distance could play to his strengths.

Aidan O’Brien has also left Action, Piazza San Marco and the only filly among the remaining entries, Amelia Earhart, in the race ahead of final declarations.

While Ballydoyle has strength in numbers, Joseph O’Brien appears to have two serious chances of denying his father another St Leger victory.

The rapidly improving Enceladus will arrive at Doncaster chasing a fourth straight win. The Sea The Stars colt opened his season with a maiden victory at Cork before stepping through the grades to win the King George V Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Group Three Gordon Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.

He remains lightly raced, having made just five career appearances, and Joseph O’Brien believes the additional distance at Doncaster will suit him.

“Enceladus has been progressive and goes there on the back of a career best,” O’Brien said.

“It looks like being a good renewal of the race, but Enceladus is an obvious contender and I think the extra couple of furlongs will suit him. I don’t see it being an issue and he’s a good horse.”

Billy Loughnane has secured the ride on Enceladus after Joseph O’Brien’s regular jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle was sidelined through injury. The booking has attracted support in the betting market, with the colt now established as one of the leading challengers to Christmas Day.

Joseph’s second runner, Highwayman, brings a very different profile into the Classic.

The Persian King colt was unplaced through his first four starts but has improved dramatically since being asked to race over longer distances. He broke his maiden by nine lengths over 2300 metres at Killarney before proving his stamina with a decisive victory over the St Leger distance in the Listed Vinnie Roe Stakes at Leopardstown.

That performance earned Saffie Osborne the call-up for what could become a historic ride.

No female jockey has won a British Classic, and victory aboard Highwayman would provide another major landmark in a season that has already included important wins at Ascot and Goodwood and success as captain of the Great Britain and Ireland team in the Shergar Cup.

“My agent texted me to tell me I was riding him and I was very excited,” Osborne said.

“He looks a really nice horse and it’s great to get the opportunity. Joseph is having an incredible season and it’s an honour to get the call-up to ride a horse like this who looks like he has a serious chance.”

Osborne has already gained Classic experience this season aboard Touleen in the 1000 Guineas, before finishing second to Precise in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot.

“Highwayman looks very progressive,” she said.

“He won a Listed race last time and looked to stay the trip well, so hopefully the same distance on Saturday will be no issue for him.”

Joseph O’Brien is no stranger to St Leger success. He rode Leading Light to victory for his father in 2013 before returning as a trainer to win the race with Galileo Chrome in 2020.

Beyond the powerful Irish challenge, Andrew Balding could be represented by Hatteen and Galiyan.

Course winner Hatteen is the more intriguing of that pair after winning Doncaster’s inaugural St Leger Trial before narrowly missing in a handicap at Glorious Goodwood. He faces a substantial rise in class but has already demonstrated his liking for Town Moor.

Karl Burke’s Golden Story, Faye Bramley’s Rebel Rocker and Richard Hannon’s Alderman complete the list of horses remaining in contention.

The balance of power may rest firmly with Ireland, but the biggest question could be which branch of the O’Brien family collects the final Classic of the season.

For Aidan, victory would mean a fourth successive St Leger and another Derby–St Leger hero. For Joseph, it would provide another defining moment in an exceptional British campaign for the talented horseman.

For Osborne, meanwhile, Highwayman offers the opportunity to create a piece of Classic history of her own. By Scott Bailey

Punters looking for a profitable Thursday on the Highveld could do worse than keeping a close eye on the Muzi Yeni-Robyn Klaasen combination when a competitive nine-race Vaal programme unfolds on Thursday, 10 September. The partnership has two particularly appealing opportunities early, while two recent course-and-distance winners later on the card offer proven form that bettors should not overlook. After three thirds and two seconds from his last six starts, Two Tigers looks overdue to break through in Race 2 over 1200m. The three-year-old son of Flower Alley has shown versatility from 1000m to 1450m, but his best efforts have generally come with Yeni in the saddle. In four starts under the diminutive rider, Two Tigers has twice finished second and twice third, making their established partnership a compelling reason to expect a breakthrough. He looks a logical banker in the first leg of the afternoon’s exotics, although insurance may be wise in a competitive contest. Stable companion Charming Cheetah could complete a quick double for Klaasen and Yeni, giving co-owner Dayalan Chinsammy another reason to smile in Race 3 over the same distance. The New Predator gelding won two of his first three starts and later finished runner-up at Grade 1 level, but failed to score throughout his three-year-old season. He was nevertheless far from disgraced in stronger company and remains capable of rediscovering his winning touch. Now a four-year-old, Charming Cheetah returns off a career-low merit rating with blinkers refitted and Yeni reunited with him for the first time since partnering him to a respectable fifth in the Grade 2 Senor Santa Stakes over 1160m in April. That combination of a favourable rating, equipment change and proven jockey familiarity makes Charming Cheetah an attractive betting proposition. Race 8 over 1000m could provide another opportunity to side with a recent winner in Tempranillo. The well-related Querari filly landed a similar course-and-distance contest five weeks ago and, although she carries a three-point penalty, there is enough in her profile to suggest she can cope. First-time blinkers could eke out the improvement required, while the continued partnership with Keagan de Melo is another positive. She need not improve dramatically to make her presence felt again and appeals as a sound inclusion in the exotics. There is another course-and-distance winner in the finale, where Nkandla Gold bids to prove his Vaal affinity over 1200m is no fluke. His recent win by more than two lengths over this track and trip confirms his appeal despite a six-point penalty. Back at the Vaal, he merits consideration.   Clive Robinson

A two-time winner from just four starts, the Alan Greeff-trained New Day is clearly improving and was a very easy winner last month. She should prove hard to beat in Race 5, a FM 72 Handicap over 1600m at Fairview on Wednesday. The Canford Cliffs-filly stepped up to 1400m for her latest win and tries even further this time, but it was clear in her last success that this longer distance should not trouble her. Jockey Richard Fourie has ridden her in all four of her starts. He sent her clear shortly after entering the straight last time out and she never looked in doubt. Being well-drawn this time might allow Fourie to conserve her for a little while longer, but it will be a surprise if she is not good enough to see off these rivals as her eight-point penalty does not seem enough. Small fields and competitive racing will be the order of the day for the first half of this card, but the well-bred Madra Rua does catch the eye in Race 1, a Maiden Plate over 1300m. A gelded son of the mighty Frankel and out of the quality Run Fox Run, this now four-year-old has been a disappointment to date. Frankel retired as an unbeaten champion at two, three, four and five years old. As a sire, he has been outstanding, but South African punters have yet to see a decent Frankel in this country. Admittedly, not too many have raced here, but we still crave a good one. Getting back to Madra Rua, he has had eight starts, all on the grass, with three top-three finishes and three fourth-place finishes. Trying the Polytrack could see him break the ice after a change of trainer, and he is now ridden by Callan Murray.   Clive Robinson

The world’s best sprinter produced another record-breaking performance in Hong Kong, while Group One racing across Australia, Britain and France and Japan’s domination in South Korea delivered a memorable weekend of international action.

Ka Ying Rising once again proved the headline act, making a spectacular return at Sha Tin before immediately turning his attention towards the defence of The Everest.

Elsewhere, Almeraq demolished his rivals in the Sprint Cup Stakes, My Gladiola secured a deserved Group One breakthrough in the Moir Stakes and Japanese-trained runners swept the Korea Cup and Korea Sprint.

France completed the programme with Friendly Soul and Erdenali taking the two Group One prizes on Arc Trials Day at ParisLongchamp.

Ka Ying Rising Breaks Another Record

There appears to be no limit to what Ka Ying Rising can achieve.

Hong Kong’s champion sprinter began his latest campaign by extending his winning sequence to 21 in the HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup (G3, 1200m), breaking his own Sha Tin course record in the process.

Carrying top weight of 135lb, the David Hayes-trained gelding travelled comfortably behind the leaders before Zac Purton allowed him to stride into the race approaching the home turn.

The response was immediate.

Ka Ying Rising swept to the front and powered clear to defeat Patch Of Stars by seven-and-three-quarter lengths, stopping the clock at a remarkable 1 minute 6.11 seconds.

It was the fifth time he had established a new Sha Tin record over 1200m and improved his overall record to 22 victories and two seconds from 24 starts.

The performance was made even more impressive by the fact Ka Ying Rising returned 29lb heavier than at his previous appearance, with Hayes declaring the six-year-old “bigger, stronger and better”.

He has now entered quarantine ahead of his return to Australia, where he will attempt to defend his title in the A$20 million Everest (G1, 1200m) at Randwick on October 17.

Almeraq Dominates Haydock Sprint Cup

Conditions were completely different at Haydock, but the result was every bit as decisive as Almeraq produced a devastating performance in the Betfair Sprint Cup Stakes (G1, 1200m).

The William Haggas-trained four-year-old had been disappointing when finishing ninth in the July Cup, but left that performance firmly behind him on soft ground.

Held up by Tom Marquand as the field moved towards the stands side, Almeraq was the last horse placed under serious pressure. Once asked to quicken, however, he swept past his rivals and rapidly put the race beyond doubt.

The Shadwell-owned colt defeated Paborus by four-and-a-quarter lengths, with defending champion Big Mojo finishing third.

It was his second Group One victory following his narrow success in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot and confirmed his position among Europe’s leading sprinters.

The victory was also an emotional one for connections.

Almeraq had fallen heavily at York almost exactly a year earlier in an incident which ultimately ended the riding career of Jim Crowley. His recovery to become a dual Group One winner has been one of the more remarkable stories of the British season.

The British Champions Sprint Stakes at Ascot now shapes as the logical target, with bookmakers installing him as a clear early favourite following his Haydock demolition.

My Gladiola Lands Deserved Group One

A long-awaited Group One victory arrived for My Gladiola in the Moir Stakes (G1, 1000m) at Sandown.

Traditionally staged at Moonee Valley, the A$750,000 sprint was transferred to Sandown while The Valley undergoes redevelopment.

The change of venue proved no obstacle for the John McArdle-trained mare.

Ridden closer to the speed than usual by Jamie Mott, My Gladiola travelled strongly behind the leaders before being brought to the outside in the straight.

The daughter of I Am Invincible produced a sharp turn of foot to run down Cavalry Girl, with favourite Natural Fling finishing third at just her fourth career start.

McArdle had considered scratching My Gladiola when rain threatened to push the Sandown track into the heavy range, but improving conditions helped convince him to take his chance.

“She’s run against the best her whole career and she was deserving of this,” McArdle said.

The victory carried extra significance for Mott, who has enjoyed a long association with the stable.

“She’s always been good enough – she just needed her day,” he said.

“She’s a proper 1000-metre Group One sprinter.”

Already placed behind some of Australia’s best speed horses in the Black Caviar Lightning and Coolmore Stud Stakes, My Gladiola now has the elite-level victory her consistency deserved.

The Manikato Stakes (G1, 1200m) is among the possible options for her next appearance.

Japan Sweeps Korea’s International Features

Japan strengthened its exceptional record in South Korea by completing a commanding double in the Korea Cup and Korea Sprint at Seoul.

Defending champion Diktaean came from the rear of the field to claim consecutive editions of the Korea Cup (G2, 1800m).

The eight-year-old was slowly away and raced wide under Takayuki Yano, while Sunday Funday and Korean hope Clean One contested a strong pace at the front.

Yano began to improve his position approaching the final turn before Diktaean swept past Sunday Funday early in the straight and drew clear.

The Katsunori Arayama-trained gelding won by six lengths in 1 minute 51.7 seconds, with Amazing Khan finishing a distant third as the best of the Korean-trained runners.

A winner of the Tokyo Daishoten (G1) following his first Korea Cup success, Diktaean earned an automatic berth in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile at Keeneland.

Japan also filled the first two positions in the Korea Sprint (G3, 1200m), where Dragon Welds defeated American Stage.

Ridden by Keita Tosaki, Dragon Welds travelled close to the speed before engaging his Japanese rival inside the final 200m.

The pair briefly raced together before Dragon Welds gained the advantage and went on to win by two lengths. Korean-trained Vincero Cavallo finished third, while Hong Kong’s best result came through Gorgeous Win in fifth.

The victory extended Dragon Welds’ unbeaten 2026 campaign to four races and secured the Frosted colt a place in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint.

Japan has now won four consecutive editions of the Korea Cup and again demonstrated its considerable strength on dirt by dominating both international races.

Flicker Jab Continues Rise In Centaur Stakes

Japan’s sprinting ranks produced another emerging talent as Flicker Jab captured the Centaur Stakes (G2, 1200m) at Hanshin.

Sent out favourite under Kohei Matsuyama, the Shota Nishizono-trained four-year-old began sharply before settling behind the free-running Puro Magic.

The leader established a strong tempo and maintained a clear advantage into the straight, but Flicker Jab gradually reduced the margin before taking command inside the final 50m.

He defeated Puro Magic by one length in a fast 1 minute 6.9 seconds, just 0.2 seconds outside the Hanshin course record. Former Sprinters Stakes winner Mama Cocha finished another length-and-a-quarter away in third.

The victory improved Flicker Jab’s record to seven wins from 12 starts and completed consecutive graded successes following his victory in the Kitakyushu Kinen (G3) at Kokura.

“He was calm in the gate, broke well and raced in a good rhythm,” Matsuyama said.

“This horse has speed, and he’s also learning to hold back when needed. I think he’s a horse to watch in future Group One races.”

The Sprinters Stakes (G1, 1200m) at Nakayama on September 27 is the obvious next target as Flicker Jab attempts to continue his rapid rise through Japan’s sprinting division.

There was disappointment for Hong Kong representative Fast Network, who travelled strongly in a prominent position under Damian Lane before weakening sharply over the final 200m to finish 15th.

Trainer Dennis Yip later revealed the six-year-old had experienced a recurrence of a throat problem. His participation in the Sprinters Stakes will be decided after consultation with the stable’s veterinary team.

Friendly Soul Earns Arc Opportunity

At ParisLongchamp, Friendly Soul returned to her best with a brave front-running victory in the Prix Vermeille (G1, 2400m).

James Doyle allowed the John and Thady Gosden-trained mare to stride freely at the head of the field in her first start over 2400m.

Rather than attempting to restrain her natural speed, Doyle established a strong, even rhythm before waiting until deep in the straight to ask for her full effort.

Pink Panthera and Sunly closed late, but Friendly Soul responded under pressure to hold a three-quarter-length advantage at the finish. Only a neck separated the minor placegetters.

It was her first victory for almost two years and her second Group One success at ParisLongchamp following the Prix de l’Opera in 2024.

“She was brave late on,” Doyle said.

“I tried to sit as long as I could and she responded well when the others came to her.”

Victory also gave Friendly Soul a wildcard entry into the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, with the usual €120,000 supplementary fee waived. Connections will now consider whether to return to ParisLongchamp for Europe’s premier middle-distance contest on October 4.

Erdenali Announces Himself In The Moulin

The French-trained Erdenali completed the Group One double at ParisLongchamp with a career-defining victory in the Prix du Moulin de Longchamp (G1, 1600m).

Francis-Henri Graffard’s progressive three-year-old entered the race with three victories from four starts but faced a significant rise in class against established performers including Gstaad, Opera Ballo and Notable Speech.

Mickael Barzalona settled Erdenali behind the speed before producing him with a sustained run in the straight.

The Aga Khan-owned gelding moved into contention inside the final 400m and proved too strong over the closing stages, defeating Ten Bob Tony by one-and-a-quarter lengths.

Irish 2000 Guineas winner Gstaad finished another three lengths away in third, while Notable Speech and Opera Ballo were unable to land a serious challenge.

As a gelding, Erdenali is ineligible for the Arc, but his victory established him as an exciting new force among Europe’s milers.

It was also another major success for Graffard and Barzalona, who combined to win the same race with Sahlan 12 months earlier.

From Hong Kong’s record-breaking champion to emerging Group One winners in Australia and France, the weekend produced a series of performances that will have major implications as the international racing season moves into its defining autumn and spring meetings. By Scott Bailey

Video Stars Race 5 – 7 LIGHT YEARS GLORY He likely failed to see out the 1650m trip last start, while pulling up with blood in the trachea only compounded matters, so that performance is best overlooked. Prior to that, he had gone close to winning in Class 4, finishing third twice in his previous four starts. The drop back to 1200m, the distance of his sole career win, looks a significant positive and he is expected to produce a much-improved effort. Race 10 – 6 GOLD PATCH Having shown consistent form last season, he was last seen finishing an uncharacteristic seventh in July after settling just off the speed and weakening late to be beaten 3.25 lengths over this distance. Even so, the effort still had merit given the strong tempo throughout. He has since impressed in a recent trial win and, with a more economical run this time, looks capable of bouncing back first-up. Sectional Stars Race 1 – 3 POWER PATCH He was disadvantaged by settling slightly closer to the speed in a strongly run race last start, but still produced a creditable effort to finish seventh over 1400m. The form from his penultimate outing has since been franked, with several runners performing well subsequently, which bodes well for his Class 5 debut this week. Race 6 – 12 VICTORY CHAMPION He appeared to be on a winnable mark toward the end of last season, finding the line strongly in his final two starts to finish fifth and fourth, beaten just 1.75 lengths on each occasion. A further three-point drop during the off-season strengthens his claims, and he looks one to follow first-up.

Superstar KA YING RISING looks set to continue his remarkable winning streak when he lines up in Sunday’s Group 3 HKSAR Chief Executive’s Cup over 1200m at Sha Tin on the opening day of the new season. With an outstanding Hong Kong rating of 142, KA YING RISING is rated 33 points clear of the next-highest runner in this feature, COPARTNER PRANCE, a significant advantage given that several of his rivals are out of the handicap. The David Hayes-trained champion has strung together 20 consecutive wins and claimed five Group 1 victories last season, including The Everest at Randwick in October, further cementing his status as the world’s best sprinter. Resuming off two dominant trial wins by a combined margin of 11.75 lengths, KA YING RISING looks extremely hard to oppose. For most punters, the bigger question may not be whether he wins, but by how far and in what manner. The Class 3 Handicap over 1400m at Sha Tin looks a wide-open contest on Sunday, with three runners holding strong winning claims. AEROINVINCIBLE possesses tactical speed and could prove hard to run down if allowed to dictate on the front end. However, CIRCUIT CHAMPION, who finished just 0.25 lengths behind AEROINVINCIBLE at their most recent meeting, is well placed to turn the tables. BABY SAKURA also commands plenty of respect after ending his last preparation with a win in this grade, while trainer Francis Lui has identified him as one to follow in the new season.

The RM 300,000 NZB Open Championship (1400m) (Race 9) will take centre stage at the Selangor Turf Club Meeting this Saturday and winner of the race last year, the talented ANTIPODEAN will be attempting to retain the title. The two place getters in last year’s edition, DUMA and MEGA POWER are also returning in their attempts to reverse the result for their respective connections. However, ANTIPODEAN will be clashing with the country’s top-rated performer in PLATINUM EMPEROR and multiple group one winner LUCKY MAGIC, who remains unbeaten in two runs this campaign. Fresh from his fourth Group One victory in the G1 Ipoh Gold Vase two weeks ago, LUCKY MAGIC will be one of the popular elects and hopefully receives more luck in this year’s edition compared to last year when he was trapped wide throughout in finishing 6th. ANTIPODEAN does thrive at the trip as his record indicates (9:6-1-2) and B Pinheiro has a good record aboard the six-year-old. The gelding has the class to win as he heads towards another Selangor Gold Cup campaign at the end of this month. PLATINUM EMPEROR has amassed a similar bankroll to LUCKY MAGIC following multiple feature victories in Macau and Malaysia, culminating in his first up win in the KRA Trophy on June 14. The seven-year-old’s runs have been well spaced and has been freshened since his recent 2nd behind LUCKY MAGIC, beaten a neck on July 19. It is still debatable whether PACIFIC ENERGY is a true miler following a couple of unlucky efforts over that trip recently and despite not winning beyond 1200m, the gelding appears ideally placed back to the 1400m journey. The recent 4YO Sprint Championship winner has been highly competitive in the top grades chalking up 5 wins from 15 starts locally and a return to winning form would not surprise. Seven-time winner and talented four-year-old MEGA ACE resumes following a successful first preparation which included a resounding win in the 3YO Sprint Championship on June 14. The gelding performed well at this level also and he did lower the colours of PACIFIC ENERGY in a Supreme A contest back in May. DUMA, runner up in this race last year, has finished top two in all five starts at the trip and could provide the value. MEGA POWER, placed 3rd in the race last year when formerly known as Rocky Bhai, looked sharp in a recent trial following his last start 1500m win in a Class 4 event on July 26. NZB OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP: (3) LUCKY MAGIC   (2) ANTIPODEAN   (1) PLATINUM EMPEROR   (5) PACIFIC ENERGY Progressive four-year-old YES BOSS YES is building a picket fence of wins and is aiming for his fourth in succession when he lines up in the 1200m Class 2 contest (Race 8). The Jason Ong trained performer has rapidly progressed through the grades and arguably his most recent victory was the most impressive from an eight-start career so far. Scoring by 2.25L after racing on speed, the gelding was found to be lame after the event, hence will be coming off the 34-day break. The danger could be former Australian galloper PACIFIC WAVE, which scored narrowly on local debut last month from a wide barrier. The gelding produced a sharp burst and hit the line well so could be another horse to watch on the upgrade. COOL SIXTY-ONE has chalked up four wins for the year, including his last start 3.5L Class 3 victory on August 22. It will be the grey gelding’s first run in this class but he does retain form and cannot be dismissed. The recent trial sessions at SLTC have produced a few winners lately and some local debutants with good trial form are expected to feature first up. The Pacific Stable will have PACIFIC HAWK resuming from a five-month break in the 1020m Class 3 (Race 5) and his ten-length trial win suggests a forward showing is expected. The Simon Dunderdale trained RAIL TRAIL has been off the scene for thirteen months but trialed well behind group winner FORTUNE TREE in quick time last Tuesday week. He looks a worthy prospect with Jimmy Wong in the saddle. The Pacific Stable will also be represented by PACIFIC ALPHA in the 1200m Class 4 (Race 7) and looks to be a speedy type in the making judging by his 59.22s trial win at the August 26 session. The four-year-old arrives from Australia as a three-start maiden and will carry top weight of 59kg. He will be lining up against LEGEND SIXTY-THREE , a narrow first up winner here last month which has raced competitively in this grade before. HURRICANE is well served at the weights and will be seeking immediate atonement after finishing runner up as a beaten favourite here a fortnight ago.

Gavin Lerena looks the jockey to follow when punters turn their attention to Turffontein’s Inside track on Saturday, 5 September, with the experienced rider holding several live chances on an eight-race Highveld programme. Lerena could get the ball rolling aboard Celtic Manor in Race 1 over 1450m. The Candice and Tammy Dawson-trained runner has the form and experience to make his presence felt, but a 90-day absence is a concern. Empress Of Peace arrives race-fit and could have the edge if Celtic Manor needs the run. Race 2 presents Lerena with a stronger opportunity aboard Uncle Bob over 1800m. The Fanie Bronkhorst-trained three-year-old has finished runner-up in each of his last three starts, all under Champion Jockey Craig Zackey, and was again second over this distance just 17 days ago. The son of Heavenly Blue needs little improvement, if any, to finally break through and looks one of the day’s more reliable betting propositions. Sword Of Light gives Lerena another winning chance in Race 3 over 1800m. The lightly raced filly finished second over 1600m last time, making strong late progress from the rear to get within striking distance. The extra 200m should suit her, and this Lucky Houdalakis-trained daughter of William Longsword could prove hard to beat if she builds on that performance. In Race 5, Lerena partners Winds Of Grace, who has a compelling case for redemption. The Mike Azzie-trained five-year-old recorded only the second unplaced finish of her 21-race career when finishing down the field over 1400m on the Standside track six weeks ago. She had legitimate excuses, having been bumped at the start before being found distressed by the on-course veterinarian. A return to the tighter Inside track over 1450m could spark a rebound. The consistent daughter of Act Of War has never been afraid to tackle the boys and boasts an outstanding course record: one win, five seconds and two minor placings from eight Inside-track appearances. In other words, she has finished in the first three in all eight attempts, a statistic punters should not overlook. The value play could come in the finale, where Stoneywood has a strong chance to complete a double for Houdalakis and owner David Shawe over 1200m. The well-related sprinter, a full-brother to Grade 1 Cape Flying Championship winner Dyce, showed renewed form when second in a similar 1160m contest last time. He returns off the same mark and retains apprentice Jacey Botes, whose 2.5kg claim could make a significant difference. A repeat of his latest effort should see Stoneywood firmly in contention. Lerena’s rides provide the obvious starting point, with Uncle Bob and Sword Of Light the stronger win candidates, Winds Of Grace the bounce-back banker and Stoneywood the value closer.   Clive Robinson

Kind Of Blue will attempt to turn two years of Haydock frustration into Group 1 glory when he lines up in a fascinating renewal of the Betfair Sprint Cup Stakes (G1, 1200m) on Saturday.

The James Fanshawe-trained five-year-old has finished runner-up in the Merseyside feature in each of the past two seasons, losing by a head to Montassib in 2024 before finding Big Mojo a length-and-a-quarter too strong 12 months ago.

He now returns for a third attempt at the £400,000 contest, which is the final all-aged six-furlong Group 1 of the British season and one of the defining races in the sprint division.

Owned by Wathnan Racing, Kind Of Blue has not won since landing the British Champions Sprint Stakes (G1) at Ascot in October 2024, but his proven record at Haydock and ability to handle different conditions make him a leading contender once again.

The son of Blue Point began his current campaign with a second behind Elmonjed in the Minster Stakes (G2) at York before finishing down the field behind Almeraq in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes (G1) at Royal Ascot.

The race will carry additional significance for Kind Of Blue, who is expected to retire to stud at the end of the season.

Standing between Kind Of Blue and an overdue Haydock victory is a strong group headed by Royal Ascot hero Almeraq.

The William Haggas-trained four-year-old emerged as a leading member of the sprint division when defeating Japan’s Satono Reve by a nose in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, with Australia’s Joliestar close behind in a blanket finish.

That performance earned Almeraq an official rating of 119, the highest among the leading contenders, and he is expected to be suited should the forecast rain produce testing conditions.

Haggas won the race with Montassib in 2024 and confirmed Almeraq is an intended runner, while stablemate Division is more dependent on the ground.

Division is a previous course-and-distance winner and arrives after finishing second to Samangan in the Prix Maurice de Gheest (G1) at Deauville. However, his preference for a quick surface means Sunday’s Garrowby Stakes at York could become the more suitable option.

Defending champion Big Mojo will attempt to become only the second horse to win the Sprint Cup twice.

The race was inaugurated in 1966, but only its first winner, Be Friendly, has managed to return and successfully defend the title.

Big Mojo produced a career-best performance when defeating Kind Of Blue last year and comes into his title defence after returning to winning form in the Phoenix Sprint Stakes (G3) at the Curragh.

Michael Appleby’s four-year-old travelled strongly before taking control during the final furlong and defeating Big Gossey by one-and-a-quarter lengths on good-to-firm ground.

He is proven over the course and distance and will again be partnered by William Buick, although softer conditions could present a different challenge from the one he faced last season.

Irish interest is supplied by Comanche Brave, whose victory in the July Cup (G1) at Newmarket established him among Europe’s leading sprinters.

The Donnacha O’Brien-trained colt has shown his best form on quicker ground, however, and connections could switch their attention to the Flying Five Stakes (G1) at the Curragh if conditions deteriorate significantly.

The three-year-old challenge is headed by Coppull, who drops back to six furlongs after winning the Hungerford Stakes (G2) over 1400m at Newbury.

Trained by sprint specialist Clive Cox, Coppull had earlier finished fourth behind Comanche Brave in the July Cup and receives 2lb from the older male runners at Haydock.

Marvelman is another contender with the form to become involved following his third behind Notable Speech and Lake Forest in the City of York Stakes (G1). The Andrew Balding-trained four-year-old has yet to win at Group level but brings a rating of 117 and should not be inconvenienced by rain.

Wathnan could also be represented by Paborus, who returns to six furlongs after finishing eighth in the City of York Stakes.

The lightly raced five-year-old had previously made an impressive return from a year on the sidelines when winning the Chipchase Stakes (G3) at Newcastle, and connections believe the shorter distance and some ease in the ground could bring out further improvement.

Saturday’s race therefore offers several compelling storylines, from Big Mojo’s pursuit of history to Almeraq’s attempt to confirm his place at the head of the division.

For Kind Of Blue, however, it represents one final opportunity to settle unfinished business at Haydock and turn two narrow defeats into a long-awaited Sprint Cup victory.

The Betfair Sprint Cup Stakes is scheduled for 3.40pm local time on Saturday.

By Scott Bailey

South Korea takes centre stage on the international racing calendar on Sunday when some of the leading dirt performers from Japan, Hong Kong and the home team clash in the Korea Cup and Korea Sprint at Seoul Racecourse. The two races have continued to grow in international significance and the 2026 edition represents another important step, with the Korea Cup (G2, 1800m) elevated to International Group 2 status for the first time. Worth KRW1.6 billion, the feature has attracted defending champion Diktaean, emerging Japanese dirt performer Sunday Funday and Korea’s leading middle-distance galloper Clean One. The Korea Sprint (G3, 1200m) carries KRW1.4 billion in prize money and has assembled a capacity field of 16, headed by defending champion Self Improvement, Japanese visitors American Stage and Dragon Welds, and a strong Hong Kong contingent featuring Beauty Waves and Gorgeous Win. Both races also carry significant international consequences as part of the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series. Victory in the Korea Cup earns an automatic berth in the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile (G1), while the Korea Sprint winner gains qualification for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) at Keeneland on October 31. Japan has dominated the Korea Cup in recent years and Diktaean returns to Seoul attempting to continue that stranglehold. The Katsunori Arayama-trained eight-year-old produced a powerful performance 12 months ago, coming from off the speed to defeat Hong Kong’s Chancheng Glory and give Japan a sixth victory in the race. His career has moved to another level since that success. The son of King Kamehameha broke through at the highest level when winning the Tokyo Daishoten (G1, 2000m) at Oi in December and arrives back in Korea following two runs this preparation. After finishing fifth in the Kawasaki Kinen on his return, Diktaean improved to finish third in the Teio Sho (2000m) on July 1. Connections had several options available following that performance but elected to return to Seoul and attempt to defend the title. Should he succeed, Diktaean would join London Town and Crown Pride among the horses to have won consecutive editions of the Korea Cup. Japan’s second representative Sunday Funday ensures the defending champion will not have things all his own way. The Akishi Higashida-trained six-year-old has won eight races and arrives in arguably career-best form. He won the March Stakes (G3, 1800m) earlier this year before adding the Mercury Cup (2000m) at his latest appearance in July. His record over the middle distances makes him an intriguing challenger and provides Japan with another strong chance of extending its outstanding record in the race. Standing in the way of another Japanese victory is Korean star Clean One. The four-year-old has developed into one of the country’s leading horses and carries a domestic rating of 120 into Sunday’s contest. Winner of seven of his 11 starts, Clean One established himself at the top of the Korean middle-distance ranks with victory in last year’s Grand Prix and shapes as the leading hope of keeping the Korea Cup trophy at home. He is joined by Wonpyeong Storm, Funny Wild, Unju Guy, Daeji Choice, Big Musical Star and Amazing Khan in a nine-horse field. Hong Kong had initially looked set to have representation through Romantic Thor, but the Danny Shum-trained galloper was withdrawn after sustaining an injury before leaving for Korea. That leaves the battle for the Cup largely as a Japan-versus-Korea contest. The international representation is considerably deeper in the Korea Sprint, where defending champion Self Improvement returns looking for consecutive victories. The Manfred Man-trained seven-year-old provided Hong Kong with its second Korea Sprint success last year when he edged out Japanese challenger Chikappa under Jerry Chau. There will be a significant change this time around, with Dylan Mo taking the ride aboard Self Improvement. Chau instead partners another of Hong Kong’s major chances, the Tony Cruz-trained Beauty Waves. A winner of the National Day Cup (G3, 1000m) at Sha Tin in 2024, Beauty Waves brings plenty of established Hong Kong sprinting form to Seoul. The six-year-old has been handed barrier 13 in the 16-runner field and will be making his first appearance outside Hong Kong. Cruz and Chau remain confident his class can translate to Seoul’s sand surface, with Beauty Waves rated significantly higher than Self Improvement was when the latter arrived in Korea and caused an upset 12 months ago. Hong Kong’s three-pronged challenge is completed by Gorgeous Win. Trained by Danny Shum and ridden by Richard Kingscote, the six-time 1200m winner has drawn the outside barrier in 16. Shum is no stranger to international success, having campaigned horses successfully across the world, most notably recently with champion Romantic Warrior. Japan’s challenge is headed by the Yoshito Yahagi-trained American Stage, who has already accumulated considerable international experience. The four-year-old son of Into Mischief has raced in the Middle East and finished runner-up in the Mahab Al Shimaal (G3, 1200m) at Meydan last year. He also competed in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint and arrives in Seoul for one of the world’s most accomplished international stables. Yahagi has become synonymous with travelling horses around the world, most notably through the exploits of Forever Young, and Ryusei Sakai takes the ride on American Stage from barrier three. Japan’s second challenger Dragon Welds brings strong recent form of his own. Prepared by Hideaki Fujiwara, the four-year-old won the Tokyo Sprint (1200m) at his latest appearance and has drawn barrier seven with Keita Tosaki aboard. The home team is headed by established sprinter Vincero Cavallo, who has won 12 of his 27 career starts and carries a domestic rating of 112. The five-year-old has drawn barrier two and will be partnered by Choi Bum-hyun. Winner Clear, Born Dia, Final K and Knicks Go One are among the other leading Korean hopes in what shapes as a far deeper domestic challenge than the one facing the Japanese visitors in the Korea Cup. Knicks Go One adds further international interest through his pedigree, being a daughter of former American champion Knicks Go, winner of the Breeders’ Cup Classic and Pegasus World Cup. The Korea Sprint has developed into a genuinely international contest since its introduction in 2016, with Japanese and Hong Kong-trained horses establishing an impressive record against the locals. Self Improvement will now attempt to become the latest horse to win the race in consecutive years, but with proven international performers from Japan and Hong Kong alongside an improving Korean sprinting division, defending his title will be anything but straightforward. First staged in 2016, the Korea Cup and Korea Sprint were introduced as part of the Korea Racing Authority’s push to increase the country’s presence on the international racing stage. A decade later, that ambition continues to gather momentum. The elevation of the Korea Cup to International Group 2 status follows the Asian Pattern Committee’s assessment of the quality of the race over the previous three years, while its inclusion alongside the Korea Sprint in the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series provides a direct pathway to one of the world’s biggest meetings. Sunday’s Korea Sprint is scheduled before the Korea Cup, with a combined KRW3 billion in prize money across the two international features. For Japan, it represents another opportunity to reinforce its dominance on the Asian dirt circuit. For Hong Kong, the Sprint offers another chance to build on Self Improvement’s success 12 months ago. And for Korea, horses such as Clean One, Vincero Cavallo and Winner Clear will attempt to show just how far the country’s racing industry has progressed against high-class international opposition. By Scott Bailey

Racing in KwaZulu-Natal at this time of year can be trying for punters. The big guns have gone home or are being prepared for the forthcoming feature seasons in the three provinces, leaving the lessor lights to take centre stage. Trainers without stars in their yards have had to box clever, waiting for opportunities, and often the form is not obvious. However, when the money arrives, it is most often on the mark. Punters face another competitive card on the turf at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday evening, but there is always opportunity for those prepared to marry form with the market. The feature is a Middle Stakes for fillies and mares over 1200m. Assistant Terry Fripp saddles Scarlet Macaw for Candice Bass, dropping the mare to a sprint. She has useful Gr1 form and, despite fluffing her lines as a hot favourite last time, her class could see her make amends. Match That, saddled by Frank Robinson for Justin Snaith, showed up well on her KZN debut and should enjoy the trip, although she has a wide draw. Infinity Edge has been hammered by the handicappers and still carries a big weight despite dropping to a 103 rating. The blinkers come off and she has the best draw. Miss World is seldom out of the money and runs well here. The supporting feature is a C Stakes over 1200m. Scots Wae Hae can make amends after blowing the start when favourite last time. He showed promise in his first two and deserves another chance. Kid From The South shed his maiden over this course and distance and looked progressive first up. Who Blinked has consistent turf form and gets a 4kg claimer. Xenophon, Sean Tarry’s only runner, has patchy form but can compete if on song. Blenheim Palace looks the likely short-priced favourite in the first after three promising runs. Chantilly Lady, lightly raced and much improved at her second start, could be the danger. Dreadnaught, Clinton Binda’s only runner, has shown up well in both starts and was a close third over this distance. Judiciary, Danny Atlas and Sebastiaan provide serious opposition, with the latter improving nicely and worth watching in the market. Zagreb, for Ricky Maingard, is lightly raced, down in class and has more to offer. Song To The Moon is consistent, down two ratings points and well drawn, while Next Of Kin gets a useful claimer. Captain’s Pride and Blue Poppy meet on the same terms after a neck separated them last time, but Captain’s Pride finished stronger. Rikkitikkitavi is 1kg worse off, while Spirit Of Shimla carries a rating penalty after winning comfortably. Taylor’s Version drops in class and has a useful apprentice from a handy draw. Amphitrite carries just 48.5kg and could go close. Mountainsofthemoon has suspect turf form, while Ocotillo returns from a short break. In the 1000m finale, Tipperary can follow up after finally winning her maiden at her 32nd attempt. Angel’s Oasis should improve for her stable debut, Sovereign Gem continues to progress, and Japura could feature if fit after her lengthy break.

Punters looking for a profitable route through Thursday’s eight-race Vaal card could do worse than follow a few familiar names back at the scene of last week’s successes, with TKP Racing’s purple patch particularly hard to ignore. Owner Trevelen Pillay’s distinctive white-and-sapphire silks dominated proceedings seven days ago with three winners, and there is a strong chance of another starring role in Race 7, where Gallic Victor looks the standout betting proposition. Muzi Yeni, who rode two of Pillay’s three winners last Thursday, rides the Fabian Habib-trained four-year-old over 1600m. A son of Vercingetorix, Gallic Victor began his career with Dean Kannemeyer but failed to fulfil his early promise in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. A change of scenery and ownership, however, could be exactly what he needed. He made an encouraging Highveld debut three weeks ago when running on strongly from the pace to be narrowly beaten over 1450m on the Vaal Classic track, with Champion Apprentice Blaine Marx-Jacobson in the saddle. That effort suggested the extra 150m should be firmly in his favour, and with Yeni now taking over, Gallic Victor looks primed to give the Pillay-Habib partnership another winner. Stuart Pettigrew also arrives in search of another Vaal success after a highly productive afternoon last week. The stable achieved a 50% strike-rate, with Mount Darwin winning from its two runners, and Midnight Special has the opportunity to keep that momentum going in Race 2 over 1000m. The three-year-old daughter of Fire Away has finished second in two of her three starts. She has already shown enough to suggest victory is within reach and need only reproduce her recent form to make a strong case under Calvin Habib. Race 3 could provide another opportunity for Marx-Jacobson to celebrate. The apprentice’s achievements last season are being recognised with Race 1 named in his honour, and he could mark the occasion with a winner aboard Steel Pier. The Habib-trained son of The United States finished a close second over this 1400m course and distance under Marx-Jacobson recently, and a repeat of that effort should put him firmly in the picture. Robyn Klaasen has only one runner on the card, but Sea Shanty could make the journey worthwhile. The Lance gelding returns to 1400m, a course and distance over which he has already scored, and his proven affinity for the trip makes him an obvious candidate to round off the meeting in Race 8.   Clive Robinson

Three quarters of the card at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Wednesday are Maiden Plates, but there are some extremely well-bred youngsters with appealing form and reputations. A crystal ball may be needed to know who could end up above average, but there could be some notebook entries by the end of the meeting.

Race 1 over 1000m looks fairly shallow. Nadia Nerina brings a good run on debut into play, having finished third, six lengths behind Magma Flow in April. She was scratched heading to the start on 12 August with an injury reported, but her quick return is a good sign that trainer Justin Snaith is happy with her. Gavin Lerena makes the trip to Cape Town for a good book of rides and takes the mount. Wide draws could make things difficult for Naughty Princess, Workingclasshero and Cape Town Deern.

Winter Blossom ran a ripper on debut behind the huge reputation of Over My Shoulder over 1200m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, finishing a length behind the half-sister to Eight On Eighteen. She runs in Race 2 over 1250m and a repeat should see her in the winner’s box. Callan Murray retains the ride for Lucinda Woodruff. Sabre Wing has something about her too, but Winter Blossom should have more to come.

Race 3 over 1250m is not strong. Kim Chanel gets the chance to maintain her recent good work over 1000m over the extra trip. Her last start was the first indication she might have the tools for the distance when getting going late behind Viridian Ruby. Michelle Rix has her yard in good heart and Kim Chanel should go close.

In Race 4 over 1400m, Time Of Our Lives gets a narrow nod despite gate No 9. He stayed on strongly on debut to finish close-up behind Ile Morris over 1250m and should have improvement to come. Red Hot Rifle, Wreath Of Snow and Gather Quick can also feature. Wreath Of Snow can improve over the extra trip but is still all reputation as a R9-million yearling.

Race 5 over 1400m looks a battle between Big City Roller and California Cat, who both finished second on debut in eye-catching circumstances. Big City Roller came from well back, while California Cat also finished strongly, suggesting further will suit. Big City Roller gets the narrow verdict from a slightly stronger formline.

The next two races are for winners, with Andre Nel and Muzi Yeni holding a strong hand. Cork Bay looks the part in Race 6 over 1250m. He has finished third behind Witch Hazel, then narrowly lost to Lyrical Gangster over the same course and distance before being beaten again over 1200m. With Nel’s yard in good heart, he could finally gain his overdue third career win.

In Race 7 over 1000m, Pushing Limits gets the preference for Yeni and Nel. Her last effort was encouraging when she looked likely to win before Black Erika collared her late. With low mileage, the six-year-old could have more in the locker.

Chinwag should exit the maidens in Race 8 over 1600m. A slow pace cost her last time, but her third in the Listed Iridescence Stakes behind Grapes Of Wrath sets a high standard. Murray is back aboard for Rix, and she could make the running and catch them on the stretch.

4Racing launched its spring/summer season with the running of the 2026 Spring Spree Stakes (Listed), supported by The Lady’s Stakes (NBT), at Turffontein Racecourse last Saturday on August 29, 2026. It was the first opportunity for Highveld horses to earn black type for the season, and jockey Gavin Lerena grabbed the opportunity with both hands. Undeterred by the fact that Bjorn Ironside (Gimmethegreenlight – Dance At Dawn) had not seen the racecourse in 140 days, Lerena settled him towards the back of the field before setting him alight up the inside rail. Bjorn Ironside swept into the lead from Max The Magician and secured a one-length victory. Winning owners the Wernars Family and trainer Johan Janse van Vuuren were delighted to get the feature season off to a winning start. Bred by Klawervlei Stud & the Late Mr David Abery, Bjorn Ironside was a R850,000 purchase from the 2023 Cape Premier Yearling Sale and left the course a four-time winner from 16 career starts. Striking from off the pace served Lerena well on the day, helping him secure a hat-trick. His winning run began with Messrs Jamal Farah, J B Farah & A P Peter’s Winter In Auckland (What A Winter – New Zealand) for the Tony Peter yard in Race 5, followed by Messrs D D MaClean, L M Nestadt, Gary Player Stud Farm (Pty) Ltd & Reon Barnard’s Anchorage in Race 6, The Lady’s Stakes, before culminating with Bjorn Ironside in the afternoon’s feature. Interestingly, the damsire of all three winners was Drakenstein Stud’s longtime resident Trippi (End Sweep – Jealous Appeal), who sadly passed away earlier this week at the age of 29.