Hollywoodbets Scottsville stages a competitive meeting on Sunday, with Buddy Boy shaping as one of the day’s better bets in Race 7, a Class 4 handicap over 1600m.
The Mike and Mathew de Kock-trained gelding finished a solid third behind the useful Fortress Of Fire in a polytrack sprint last time and should relish the return to turf over a more suitable trip. He looks the horse to beat and a strong banker for exotic bets. Fast And Free is the main threat after tackling longer distances of late and should appreciate the drop back in trip. Gareth van Zyl saddles I Am Invictus, narrowly beaten over this course and distance last time, and Wiccan Warrior, who improved when runner-up in blinkers.
The De Kock stable could also strike in the opener with well-bred debutantes Ibhola Lomlilo and Sparrow Man, although experienced runners Dancing Party, Mekong, and Pacific Mood bring solid form into the race.
Steamy Windows can get the Bi-Pot off to a winning start. Mike Miller’s runner has been racing in feature company since shedding his maiden and drops into easier company. Progressive Kid From The South, filly Tyme To Talk, and well-supported maiden Omkhulu Boss all have claims.
The first leg of the Place Accumulator is competitive. Theleia makes her local debut for Andre Nel after a short break and has useful Cape form. Lovecomesknocking has been improving steadily and was narrowly beaten over course and distance last time. Indignation benefits from a 4kg claim, while consistent Gimme The Power can earn another cheque.
Highveld visitor Give Me A Chance has champion-elect Craig Zackey aboard and looks capable of making an impact. Old Harry Rocks should improve from his encouraging debut, while Bai Yulu and Hadrian’s Wall also have winning prospects.
The fillies’ Middle Stakes is wide open. Tulip Fields carries top weight but arrives in good form after a recent win over the distance. Ladyofdistinction returns to a more suitable trip, while De Vlugge bids for a fifth straight victory after dominating on the polytrack. Miss World also commands respect.
Lucinda Woodruff’s Hop Hop Spinnekop was narrowly beaten over course and distance last time and can go close again. Taylor’s Version, drawn ideally, has improved since the return of blinkers, while stablemate Lilac In Winter has solid claims with a claiming apprentice aboard.
In Race 8, Flamethrower looks well treated after contesting stronger company on his first run out of the maidens. Iron Will, Lunch Money, and Diamond Maker are the main dangers.
The finale could see Arverni Princess complete four straight wins over this course and distance. Fleur De Ling, now 1kg better off after finishing close behind her last time, poses the biggest threat, while Captain Ventura and Ruby Rising also deserve consideration.
