Zimbabwe-based owner Henk Leyenaar has long supported South African racing and sends two promising three-year-olds to the Hollywoodbets Greyville polytrack on Friday night, each trained by different yards and both worth a close look.
First to run is Dean Kannemeyer’s Drielandenpunt, a son of The United States. He shed his maiden at his fourth start after steady improvement, though the form of that race was modest. He now meets older handicappers, but looks progressive and has scope to improve again. His biggest dangers come from Syx Hotfix, who has run well at big prices on the poly, Rodriguez, who enjoys this trip, and Blazing Light, well weighted and dangerous if allowed to dictate.
Later on the card, Leyenaar’s Spaarne Rivier represents Mike and Mathew de Kock. He ran a smart handicap debut when trying a mile and now returns to the distance of his maiden win. His main threat could be Kannemeyer’s Industrialstrength, talented but inconsistent, and back in KZN with blinkers fitted. Isikwishikwishi and Mvelelo are consistent poly performers who can also feature.
Rain-affected training conditions make form tricky to assess, and early races could offer value. The opening event looks open, though proven types like Susurrando and Fine Dining bring solid polytrack form, while newcomers such as Mr Mcdonald are worth monitoring.
Quarter Master should improve on a green debut in Race 2, while Malongane has been consistent. The Pick 6 opener looks competitive, with Spirit Of Shimla, Queen Fenn, and Champagne Problems all strong contenders.
Later, Queen Of The Air should relish more ground in Race 4, with Intro and Crimson Typhoon as dangers. Spectacular can improve back in trip in Race 5 but meets Continentalexpress on better terms, while Riccardo, Hodgepodge, and Our Lady Fate are chances.
A wide finish is expected in the last. Oh My Gucci Girl is better with blinkers and well drawn, Clickbait should enjoy the step up in trip, and Blind Speed brings strong form after improving against tougher company.
