Hollywoodbets Durbanville stages an intriguing card on Sunday, with several horses who could develop into feature-race contenders. Chief among them is Chasingtherainbow in Race 7 over 1500m.
Trainer James Crawford believes this son of Potala Palace is still improving. After three consecutive wins last season, he returned from a break with a strong late run for second, just 1.6 lengths behind Pinot Grigio over 1600m. Though he risks leaving his challenge late again, fitness should sharpen him. Luyolo Mxothwa makes the weight at 57kg, a sign of intent, though draw 9 could test his finishing style.
There are dangers. Please Be True has been unlucky in running but is due a change of fortune, while Handsome Prince, a smart two-year-old now regaining form for Michelle Rix, should also feature.
Earlier, Justin Snaith’s Homing Pigeon looks primed for a big run in Race 5 over 1800m after battling wide draws and inadequate trips. In Race 9, Ireland Forever—a classy debut winner but inconsistent since—returns to calmer waters and should go close despite a wide draw.
Other notable runners include Air Raid in Race 3, back to a sprint where he looks most effective, and Red Wave in Race 2, forgiven for her last poor run and expected to bounce back over 1000m. Clinton Binda’s Simbine, making his Cape debut, adds interest.
Among the younger brigade, Lark’s Song can improve on debut in Race 4, while King’s Quest (Race 6) has ability but must overcome draw 13. In Race 8, Mauritius Kestrel, now well handicapped and dropping to 1000m with a 4kg claim, could surprise, though Demanding Dave looms as the main danger.
In summary, Durbanville offers a competitive day, with Chasingtherainbow the headline act to follow.
