With the Hollywoodbets Durban July behind us, attention turns to Wednesday’s Hollywoodbets Scottsville meeting, headed by the Tote For The Win B Stakes over 2000m.
The feature could be a good opportunity for Salani Kahle. Gareth van Zyl held the gelding in high regard, testing him in the Grade 2 SA Derby against Curious Girl, who went on to contest the Durban July. Despite carrying top weight, Salani Kahle faces much easier opposition and has the class to prove hard to beat. Uzwano has been in good form over shorter distances and should appreciate the step up to 2000m, while Hodgepodge stays well and carries a handy weight. Queue Wing also deserves consideration despite rising in class and distance.
Mike and Mathew de Kock can strike early with Putthelightsout in Race 1. The filly was a beaten favourite on the polytrack last time but returns to turf against modest opposition and should go close.
The opening leg of the Bi-Pot looks competitive, with Christmas Rose the pick after finishing a close second and showing steady improvement. Stablemate Blenheim Palace continues to improve and should enjoy this trip, while America First can do better after taking on older runners last time.
The first Place Accumulator leg features several well-bred newcomers, making the betting market important. Lennox showed promise despite traffic problems last start and rates the one to beat. Tiger Cody has improved since blinkers were fitted and drops back in trip, while first-timers Hot Blooded and Bullet Catch warrant market respect.
Charlie Bucket can give punters a strong Pick 6 banker. The Paddy Kruyer-trained gelding has consistent Cape form over this course and distance and can make amends after two narrow defeats. Redoubt Express impressed on debut and should have no trouble switching to turf, while Deonarie steps up in trip from a favourable draw.
Doug Campbell’s Peeping Tom has been knocking on the door and looks one of the day’s better bets over a suitable trip. Bourbon’s Beast is consistent without finishing strongly, while Augrabies drops into modest company.
Ricky Maingard’s stable has been flying during Champions Season, and Tunguska brings strong Cape form to KwaZulu-Natal. Blizzard Boy has adapted well since arriving in KZN, while Red Cardinal drops in class and could feature if he stays the distance.
The final two races are competitive. Red Coral, Let It Roll, Dancing On A Cloud and Radu all have claims in Race 8. In the last, Preacher Man drops in class with first-time blinkers, while Diamond Maker, Yannakis and Princess Goldie complete the shortlist.
