Umfula has threatened to break through on several occasions and, despite again facing a competitive field in race 7 over 2000m at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Wednesday, he shapes as a value runner. Recently tested at a higher level, he meets familiar rivals on better terms after his latest run and now gets a more suitable trip.
Last time, Umfula finished behind Song To The Moon, Tenpenny and Landoftherisingsun over 1800m, but enjoys positive weight swings with all three and should relish the extra 200m. A sit-and-stalk type, he is likely to get the right race shape if the tempo is genuine, with Richard Fourie booked to ride for James Crawford.
Landoftherisingsun should also appreciate the step up in distance and a return to Durbanville, where he landed the Listed Settlers Trophy over this course and distance. La Pulga brings solid foreign form and has been chasing progressive types, making him one to respect if he stays the trip, while the progressive Tenpenny tries 2000m for the first time and remains one to watch despite some stamina queries.
Earlier on the card, Red Wave looks well placed to shed his maiden tag in race 1 after a string of consistent efforts. Stellar Guidance can improve on a promising debut in race 2, while the frustrating Homing Pigeon again looks the one to beat on paper in race 3 over 1800m.
Phantom Man stands out as a strong contender in race 4 following a close second over course and distance, while Waloyo Yamoni is an interesting runner stepping into handicap company in race 5. Winter Pearl rounds out the card in race 8 and, dropping in class with a favourable trip, looks hard to beat back at a venue that suits.
