Eric Sands has worked wonders with Foudre, who returns from nearly two years off with three straight wins and now targets a fourth in Sunday’s 1600m feature at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. The well-bred son of Fire Away won his maiden first-up from injury, then followed up in handicap company before beating United Front convincingly on Met Day — a horse with Grade 1 aspirations. As the competition stiffens, Foudre continues to improve. Craig Zackey retains the ride and, with Cape Town still dry, there’s no reason to halt his momentum.
He faces stronger rivals. Dawn Till Dusk brings solid feature-race form, while Handsome Prince is better off at the weights with Major Master and could be dangerous if the race is run to suit. Chasingtherainbow will be finishing late, Nordic Chief must overcome a wide draw, and Touched By Angels drops to a more suitable level. Kenyan champion Sheriff John Stone makes his local debut and could be one to watch.
Earlier, Foudre’s half-brother Ferryman looks a standout in race 5 after an eye-catching debut second over 1200m; the step up to 1400m should suit.
James Crawford holds a strong hand later on the card. Dame Of Trix drops in class after a solid Listed effort and rates highly in race 8. Raven Black returns to his preferred 1200m in race 9 after a fine Met Day run, while Whirlwind seeks to build on an impressive course-and-distance win in race 10.
The opening two races are dominated by first-timers, with market moves key. Fast Train is overdue in race 3, while Swift Serenity finds a shallow field in race 4. District Master and Spirit are value plays in two tricky handicaps on a deep, competitive card.
