The National Jockeys’ Championship remains a thrilling contest with just five weeks left in the 2024/25 season. Richard Fourie still leads on 236 wins, but Gavin Lerena closed the gap to just two after scoring a double at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Tuesday, 24 June. Craig Zackey remains in the mix on 228 winners.
Lerena’s form has surged in recent weeks, and punters may want to follow him closely at the nine-race Turffontein Standside meeting on Saturday, 28 June. He has eight rides on the day, including several strong chances.
In Race 1, Lerena partners the Roy Magner-trained Stone Of Scone, a Master Of My Fate filly who improved markedly in her second start when finishing second against colts. A repeat of that effort should see her break her maiden.
Race 2 sees Lerena aboard debutant Jabari Thimba, a Pathfork colt trained by Johan Janse van Vuuren. Closely related to Grade 1 performer Garrix, market support for this well-bred newcomer should be respected.
In Race 4, Lerena rides Season’s Greetings for Clinton Binda. The filly was a close third over this course and distance last time, and the form has already been franked by the runner-up Mamlambo’s subsequent win.
Finally, in Race 8, consistent mare Princess Ilaria returns to the Highveld. Trained by Fanie Bronkhorst, she has finished second in her last two starts, most recently under Lerena at Scottsville. From draw 1 and in slightly easier company, she looks well placed to score.
Lerena’s current momentum makes him one to watch as the title race heats up heading into the final month.
