Three-year-old feature races always spark excitement, and Sunday’s Grade 3 Cape Classic over 1400m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth is no exception. Among the standout contenders is Randolph Hearst, trained by Justin Snaith and ridden by JP van der Merwe. A colt long tipped for stardom, he was undone by conditions in winter but now returns on a sound surface. Though not fully wound up, he should make his presence felt ahead of the Grade 1 Cape Guineas.
Stablemate Absolutely Yes holds a win over Randolph Hearst and must be respected, while Aristocratic brings match fitness after a solid fourth behind Questioning in the Grade 3 Matchem Stakes. Saudi Cat, with Gavin Lerena aboard for Vaughan Marshall, is the dark horse—this will reveal whether he’s a sprinter or a genuine miler.
The supporting feature, the Listed Southeaster Sprint (Race 6), promises fireworks. The Us Of A enjoys a major weight turnaround with Arctic Wizard, whom he beat easily in August, and looks primed for a big run under Richard Fourie. Veteran Dean Street and the in-form Scottish Kiss, who has strung together three wins, are capable dangers.
In the undercard, Gallic King (Race 2) should build on a promising debut, while Blue Lagoon (Race 3) gets another chance after a wide draw last time. Hazel Green (Race 4) is knocking on the door and deserves inclusion in all bets.
Class acts Native Ruler and Okavango return from July runs in Race 5, using this mile event as a prep for longer targets.
The finale (Race 9) sees Up In Flames perfectly placed to shed her maiden tag after a strong second last time out for Michelle Rix and Van der Merwe—she looks the best bet on the card.
