The Gr1 Daily News 2000 headlines Saturday’s card at Hollywoodbets Greyville and James Crawford’s Star Major looks poised to confirm himself among the best three-year-olds in the country. The colt produced a stunning finish from last to first to win the Gr2 WSB Guineas, defeating the highly regarded Tin Pan Alley. The step up in trip should suit and his wide draw is unlikely to be a major concern.
Justin Snaith fields a powerful trio headed by Note To Self, who shapes as the likely favourite. The consistent colt has never finished out of the money in seven starts and comes off a strong run behind stable companion Okavango. Andrew Fortune takes the ride and his confidence could prove decisive.
Mike and Mathew de Kock saddle double Gr1 winner Jan Van Goyen, who appears to be peaking at the right time and should be a serious contender. Snaith’s Malmesbury Missile could also outrun expectations. Although exposed, he has solid Greyville form and tries this distance for the first time.
Corne Spies takes an interesting route with filly Hazy Dazy, opting to tackle the males rather than contest the Woolavington. She narrowly missed completing the Triple Tiara and her strong form against fillies gives her an outside chance.
The Gr2 Woolavington 2000 appears at the mercy of Wish List. Snaith’s talented filly arrives on a three-race winning streak that includes victories in the Gr1 Cape Derby against males and the Gr1 WSB Fillies Guineas. She now seeks a fourth straight feature success and sets a high standard despite facing older opposition.
Dean Kannemeyer’s improving Keukenhof may be her biggest threat after finishing strongly behind Wish List in the Fillies Guineas. The extra distance should suit. Rainbow Lorikeet adds depth after failing to show her best in the Gr1 Empress Club Stakes, while Highveld fillies Callmegetrix and Minogue renew rivalry after meeting last time out.
Snaith could complete a feature-race treble in the Listed Lonsdale Stirrup Cup with Ahead Of The Facts. The stayer should improve on his comeback run in the Gr3 WSB 1900 and his stamina will be a major asset over 2400m.
However, rising filly Curious Girl looms large. The de Kock-trained SA Derby heroine remains unbeaten over staying trips and receives 8.5kg from Ahead Of The Facts. As a Hollywoodbets Durban July hopeful, another bold performance is expected. Continentalexpress and new Vaughan Marshall recruit Douglas Dragon also have claims in a competitive staying contest.
