The road to the Hollywoodbets Durban July, South Africa’s premier race with a R10 million purse, officially began with the release of first entries. With an affordable initial fee, a wide pool of hopefuls has emerged, signalling another competitive renewal.
Two early entrants, Count Of Rouen and Johnny The Thief, step out at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday, contesting a strong Class 3 Handicap over 1900m. Trainer Dean Kannemeyer holds a solid hand with Continentalexpress and Uzwano. While Continentalexpress is consistent, Uzwano—trying the trip for the first time—appears the more progressive, with his pedigree suggesting he will stay.
Count Of Rouen is expected to improve on a needed last run, while Johnny The Thief, highly regarded, was finishing well over an inadequate distance and could feature if stepping up. Mohave Prince, unbeaten in two with blinkers, carries a light weight and is a major contender, while front-runner Go Grayson Go could prove dangerous if left alone in front.
Earlier races present tricky betting heats. Many first-timers in the opener make market moves key. Peace Rose and Peach Melba headline Race 2, though Emerald could surprise if reproducing her Highveld promise. Kiartay and Bison Warrior look solid for exotic bets, both showing progression and suited by the step up in trip.
The Pick 6 begins with Gold Gol Baby, who brings strong Western Cape form and sets the standard. Bai Yulu impressed on debut and can improve, while Flickering Light is an outsider with upside over this distance.
Mid-card handicaps remain competitive. Tobacconist is consistent and well suited at the trip, while Hodge Podge arrives in top form after a convincing win. I’m Invictus looks progressive in blinkers, and My Boy Lollipop could improve significantly over further.
Later, Silver Salute is well positioned to follow up her course-and-distance win despite a small rating rise. Gran Occasion and Blue Poppy are dangers, while West Side Story is a lightweight outsider.
The finale is wide open. Take Your Place benefits from a rating drop, Call Of The Karoo carries top weight but has strong rider support, and Amafort, unbeaten in blinkers, looks the one to beat in pursuit of a hat-trick.
