Saturday’s Hollywoodbets Durban July will be run as a true handicap, a major change from previous years that has prompted several of the country’s highest-rated horses, including defending champion The Real Prince, to skip the R10 million feature. Even so, the 18-runner field remains highly competitive, with the handicap conditions theoretically giving every runner an equal chance.
Ante-post favourite Star Major heads the market as James Crawford looks to emulate his father Brett, who won the race two years ago with Oriental Charm. The three-year-old has built a successful partnership with French jockey Mickaëlle Michel, winning both the Grade 1 KZN Guineas and Grade 1 Daily News 2000. On each occasion, Star Major stormed home from near the rear after Michel angled him wide into the straight. Similar tactics are expected, although she will need to navigate past 17 rivals this time.
Mocha Blend is another leading contender. Frank Robertson’s mare announced herself with a surprise Grade 1 Betway Summer Cup victory before her rating was carefully protected with two preparatory runs over inadequate distances. She finished strongly in both and now steps up to 2200m carrying a handy 56.5kg, well below topweight Legal Counsel on 62kg. Having already proven herself over 2000m at Turffontein, she looks well placed under the in-form Tristan Godden.
Trainer Gareth van Zyl has targeted the race with proven stayer King Pelles, winner of last year’s Grade 3 Gold Vase over 3000m. His preparation has mirrored Mocha Blend’s, using shorter races to sharpen his speed. Strong late efforts behind Okavango and Zeitz suggest he is peaking at the right time, while his proven stamina gives him an edge over some rivals stepping into unknown territory.
Justin Snaith saddles five runners, headed by four-time consecutive winner Wish List. Veteran jockey Andrew Fortune, enjoying a remarkable comeback, has long identified the filly as his July mount. After winning the Grade 1 Paddock Stakes and Cape Derby, she extended her winning streak with a determined Grade 2 Woolavington victory, edging out Minogue in the closing strides. Although Minogue meets her 1kg better at the weights, Snaith’s ability to peak horses for the big occasion makes Wish List a major player.
The supporting Grade 1 Ridgemont Garden Province Stakes is equally competitive. Defending champion Double Grand Slam faces a difficult draw but comes off a strong effort in the Grade 1 SA Fillies Sprint over an inadequate trip. Mon Petit Cherie was narrowly beaten by Quickstepgal in the Grade 3 Tibouchina Stakes after racing wide and should appreciate the extra furlong from a better draw. Keukenhof, twice placed behind Wish List, also has solid claims in a high-quality field.
