Several Betway Summer Cup contenders continue their preparations at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday night, with See It Again headlining a competitive Conditions Plate over 1600m. Trainer Michael Roberts will be eager for redemption after his star galloper was controversially scratched last time, and with Rachel Venniker aboard, the classy gelding should go close.
Among his rivals, King Pelles looks a major player. The Gareth van Zyl-trained stayer impressed during Champions Season and ran a strong sprint behind I Am Giant last time, suggesting he’s nearing peak fitness. Former Cup winner Royal Victory has also been showing renewed enthusiasm under Nathan Kotzen, running on well over 1400m last start and expected to improve further. Claw, now with Adam Azzie, and On My Honour both bring competitive recent form and cannot be ignored.
In the 1200m Conditions Plate, Cats Pajamas stands out as one of the better bets on the card. Frank Robinson’s runner caught the eye with a bold comeback behind I Am Giant and, well-weighted with a 4kg claimer, looks the horse to beat. However, he faces two classy rivals — Dave The King and Gladatorian. Both prefer further but their quality could still see them in the frame, with Gladatorian using this as a prep for the Cape season and the Gr1 L’Ormarins King’s Plate.
Trainer Stuart Ferrie also saddles unbeaten Cognac in Race 6 over 1400m. Though poorly drawn and up in distance, he remains highly promising and may use this as a stepping stone toward the Gr1 Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas. Main dangers include Safe Travel, an improving sort with strong recent form, and Rooster Bradshaw, who should strip fitter after a pleasing comeback.
