Dominic Zaki, back in South Africa after a stint in Mauritius, is seeking his first winner since relocating to Summerveld. He saddles Talk To The Master in Sunday’s Non-Black Type Fever Tree Stakes at Hollywoodbets Scottsville. The horse arrives with strong Cape form behind the likes of Snow Pilot, Great Plains, and Gem King, and a promising debut for Zaki suggests he could break the drought.
JP’s Palace looks a potential threat, coming off a light weight and first-time cheek pieces, while Cymric, stepping up in trip for Mike and Mathew de Kock, is showing steady improvement despite a wide draw. Peter Muscutt’s Dylan’s Champ impressed first-up for his stable with blinkers, and Madison Valley makes his first run for a new yard after a strong prior win.
Sunday’s card is competitive. The Place Accumulator opens with Day Two, who was narrowly beaten over course and distance last time, while Spanish Feud, back in blinkers, and Quicksmart, stepping up in trip, could also feature. The first Pick 6 leg may favor Curious Girl, lightly raced and coming on nicely, though Spectacular, Past And Present, and Hodgepodge all offer strong claims.
The fifth race sees Banzai Pipeline switching to turf against a modest field, while I Am Classy, Cool Wind, and Basie Raakvat remain dangerous. In race six, Sonata Samaritan is in good form and benefits from a weight allowance, while Prom Queen and Lady Sabrina also have claims.
Mark Dixon’s Jazz Festival could feature in another wide-open handicap, alongside Mississippi Spice, Vencedor, and Sword Speed. Dixon also has Cleartherunway in the final Pick 6 leg, with Cowdray Park, Industrialstrength, Mister Nibbles, and Harun Al Rashid all capable of making an impact.
Sunday promises a highly competitive programme, with several horses stepping up or seeking breakthrough wins under favourable conditions.
