Saturday’s Grade 1 Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge at Hollywoodbets Greyville has all the ingredients of a race-of-the-season contender, boasting a deep field of top-class performers and major Hollywoodbets Durban July hopefuls.
With the July now run under handicap conditions, many trainers have used the Gold Challenge and supporting races as key stepping stones without worrying about protecting ratings. As a result, the build-up contests have attracted stronger fields.
Defending July-winning trainer Dean Kannemeyer saddles The Real Prince, who finished strongly behind Questioning in the Drill Hall Stakes and is expected to improve over this trip. Tin Pan Alley, from the Sean Tarry yard, brings top-class three-year-old form after chasing home Star Major in the WSB Guineas and should be competitive despite a difficult draw.
See It Again is always dangerous at Greyville and should appreciate the return of Andrew Fortune, while Eight On Eighteen, runner-up in last year’s July, is expected to strip much fitter after his recent comeback run. Questioning, drawn ideally and in career-best form, is another leading contender.
The supporting Grade 2 HKJC World Pool Stakes features Quickstepgal, the Grade 1 Cape Fillies Guineas winner, who arrives fit and in form after chasing home star filly Wish List. Summer Cup winner Mocha Blend makes her seasonal progression towards the July, while One Fine Winter looks set to appreciate the step up in trip. Rachel Wall and Mon Petite Cherie also bring strong credentials.
The Grade 3 Betgames Cup Trial offers one final opportunity for July aspirants to secure a place in the big race. I Salute You catches the eye after Craig Zackey opted for him over Field Marshal, although the latter gains champion jockey Richard Fourie. Consistent performers Regulation and JP’s Palace also have claims as they bid to force their way into the July field.
With elite performers and July hopefuls in action, Greyville promises a thrilling afternoon of racing.
