Candice Bass’s stable continues to fire on all cylinders and progressive gelding Marcus Aurellius looks poised to capitalise in Race 7 over 1500m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday.
The son of Vercingetorix has improved steadily with racing and produced a career-best effort when finishing a close second to Future Free over 1600m last month. That form was franked when Future Free ran third in the Grade 3 Legal Eagle Stakes. Blinkers appeared to sharpen Marcus Aurellius significantly, and his earlier form behind the rapidly improving Sommerstern also reads well. With the in-form Bass yard and Aldo Domeyer back aboard, he looks the horse to beat.
The chief danger may be Ferryman, who made an immediate impact after joining Eric Sands. Formerly trained by Andre Nel, he won impressively on stable debut and hails from the same family as stars Rainbow Bridge and Golden Ducat. With championship leader Craig Zackey in the saddle, further improvement is expected. Rockanrollin, another Sabine Plattner-owned runner, can also earn minor honours.
Bass could strike early with Sparkling Star in Race 1. The filly was a beaten favourite last time but sets the standard among the raced runners and should be difficult to oppose.
In Race 2, stablemate Blackbird is expected to improve sharply on his debut fourth behind Rich Man’s World, who has since won the Grade 3 Godolphin Barb Stakes. That form gives Blackbird strong credentials.
Race 3 is wide open, with Hilton Heads narrowly preferred after three consecutive fourth-place finishes.
Masteronthemoon looks the one to beat in Race 4 after shaping well over unsuitable distances. Dropping back to 1800m with Richard Fourie aboard should suit perfectly.
Race 5 could be dominated by Bass runners Backinthefastlane and Super Viking, while Somebody Somewhere appeals as a progressive type after a solid post-maiden effort.
The finale is highly competitive, but Black Erika looks ready to break through. Her recent form has been encouraging and Zackey’s booking for the in-form Adam Marcus stable adds further confidence.
With Bass and Zackey holding strong books, Saturday’s Kenilworth card offers several attractive betting opportunities.
