Cape Town’s winter feature season often uncovers progressive three-year-olds, and Future Free looks poised to continue his rise in Sunday’s Listed Pocket Power Stakes over 1950m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.
A half-brother to reigning Horse of the Year Eight On Eighteen, Future Free may not yet possess the same class, but he is clearly improving. The Justin Snaith-trained colt finished an encouraging third in the Listed Legal Eagle Stakes over 1800m, just over two lengths behind La Pulga, and shapes as though this longer trip will suit perfectly. Still lightly raced and only three years old, he appears to have plenty of improvement to come. Andrew Fortune takes the ride.
Snaith also saddles Prairie Dawn, an intriguing contender with significant upside. The lightly raced gelding showed courage to squeeze through a narrow gap and score at Hollywoodbets Durbanville last time. This is a sharp rise in class, but his trainer clearly holds him in high regard and a bold showing would not surprise.
Otto Luyken, another Hollywoodbets Durban July nominee, was not far behind Future Free in the Legal Eagle Stakes and should appreciate the extra distance. On his best form, he remains a serious threat.
The supporting card offers several promising betting opportunities.
In Race 1, Aquae Calidae should improve on his eye-catching debut second behind Kalahari King, despite a wide draw.
Race 2 features the well-related Spinnaker, who caught the eye finishing strongly on debut behind The Cullinan. The step up to 1400m looks ideal.
Signor Dante drops sharply in class in Race 3 after taking on stronger rivals such as Note To Self, Prairie Dawn and Future Free. The shorter trip is the main concern.
Lava Strike appeals in Race 4 after a much-improved second and has Richard Fourie in the saddle.
Moody Blue has solid recent form and may prove the one to beat in Race 5 if effective over 1200m.
Eric Liddell is on the upgrade and looks a leading contender in Race 6 after an authoritative latest victory.
Charlie Bucket remains a maiden, but three consecutive runner-up finishes suggest his turn is near. The step up to 1600m in Race 8 could finally see him break through.
