Hollywoodbets Durbanville stages its marquee meeting on Saturday with the Grade 3 Race Coast Matchem Stakes (1400m) the headline act. Often a stepping stone to bigger targets, the race has produced champions like Captain Al, Variety Club, Charles Dickens and Rainbow Bridge.
This year, Sugar Mountain could secure his career highlight. The Candice Bass-trained seven-year-old is thriving after three consecutive wins at his ideal distance. Though once considered for retirement, he revived his career in May with a decisive win and has since followed up stylishly. Drawn in pole with Aldo Domeyer aboard, he looks primed for a big effort.
Questioning, last year’s winner, returns and should be respected. He brings solid Cape Town form and a potent turn of foot, with Richard Fourie booked. Absolutely Yes, a lightly weighted three-year-old and Grade 3 Langerman winner, adds intrigue, though youngsters often struggle in this event.
The Grade 3 Schweppes Diana Stakes (1400m) for fillies could favour the promising Princess Of Gaul, unbeaten in two, including the Debutante at Greyville. She preps for bigger Cape targets under Sean Veale. Stormwatch, though less proven, is progressive and could surprise.
In the Listed Settlers Trophy (2000m), Congressman looks ready for a breakthrough season. Lightly weighted and consistent, he appeals most, though Ardabil, Voorloopertjie, and Landoftherisingsun are progressive dangers.
Earlier, Calanque should go close in Race 1 after an encouraging debut. Eisteddfod looks due in Race 2, while Primal Instinct can make amends in Race 3. Delta Pride, runner-up twice, is the day’s banker in Race 4 from the inside draw. Rockanrollin appeals over 1800m in Race 5, and Beneath The Clouds has everything in her favour in Race 9.
The finale may rest with Lyrical Gangster, who steps up after shedding his maiden tag impressively.
