Legal Counsel made his breakthrough during last year’s KZN Champions Season and backed it up with an impressive win on his return. He holds ambitious entries for the L’Ormarins King’s Plate and the Cape Town Met, and another victory in Race 8 over 1500m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth would strengthen his credentials. Already nearing the million-rand mark in earnings, he won the KZN Breeders Mile with his trademark gritty style and returned from a short break to score neatly over Kamchatka. Callan Murray rides again for Justin Snaith, and this middle-distance range continues to suit him best.
Captain West appears the main threat. He consistently competes well in strong company and pushed the talented Native Ruler last time despite conceding significant weight. His earlier Matchem Stakes effort was also encouraging, and he looks set for another bold performance under Kegan de Melo.
His Majesty should improve on his South African debut after a fair fifth behind It Is My Time. Fitness gained and Richard Fourie aboard should help him get closer.
Race 7 over 1000m looks competitive, with Winter Snap preferred after an impressive win following a long layoff. If he avoids the second-run dip, he can follow up, though Black Cheetah and the always-quick Elusive Winter remain serious dangers.
Race 9 is a tough maiden, though Chance Encounter may finally get his win. He finished strongly last start and should appreciate the longer straight with blinkers back on, though several rivals pose threats.
Earlier on the card, Vroom Vroom looks ready to progress after a smart debut in Race 1, while Fantine continues to improve and should feature strongly in Race 2. Pacific Waters is a tentative pick in Race 3 but has been close enough in recent runs. Homing Pigeon is overdue and gets her best chance yet in Race 4. Fast And Free has been improving steadily and looks ready to score in Race 5, while long-time maiden Mrs Shackleton may finally find her opportunity in Race 6 with a light weight in a small field.
