Cowboy Country landed an old-fashioned coup last time out at Hollywoodbets Scottsville. Backed in from 16-1 to 4-1 before the off, the money arrived in spades and Jabu Jacobs made no mistake on Tony Rivalland’s charge, timing his run to perfection and kicking away to land the coup with the minimum of fuss.
Jacobs has been replaced by Serino Moodley on Sunday when Cowboy Country lines up over the same course and distance in the Middle Stakes over 1600m that heads the card. Lightly raced, he showed early that he was a horse with ability although losing his way a little after his maiden win. He is taking on stronger this time but is set to follow up.
Mike Miller has two lively runners in veteran Licence To Thrill and Infinity Edge. Licence To Thrill is something of a Scottsville specialist and is always consistent. Soho Star shoulders top weight, is seldom far back and goes very well over course and distance.
The card opener could rest between Barry’s Boy and Enjoy The Ride. Barry’s Boy has run three promising races on the poly since arriving in KZN and came from a long way back when just failing to catch Camogie last time out. The switch to turf could see him go one better. Enjoy The Ride was staying on doggedly behind Camogie and, with only a neck separating him from Barry’s Boy, it should be close again. Kiartay may be a threat while first-timer Annushka’s Pride is worth following in the betting.
Alec Laird can get off the mark with Sistership in the first leg of the PA. She is a late-starting four-year-old but has shown up well in both starts and should feature. Secret Ambition has not been far back and looks the pick of Mike Miller’s runners. New Chapter should improve for the experience, while Mad About You can improve after a fair debut.
Periwinkle will be one of the fancied runners in the opening leg of the Pick 6. She made a smart start to her career over a mile, finishing third behind Hazel Green, and should come on a length or two.
Rivalland can get off the mark with Lovecomesknocking in the fourth. Lightly raced, her best showing came over course and distance when beaten less than a length. Predator’s Crown has been close-up in all three starts and steps up to a potentially more suitable trip.
The sixth is a competitive handicap. Fire Chief looks promising despite a hefty rating, while recent maiden winner Scots Wae Hae takes on stronger. Son Of Rafeef gets first-time blinkers which could bring out the best.
Uzwano has been knocking at the door and should get the run of the race from a good draw. Beyond All Doubt is lightly raced and improving, while City Of Love steps up to a mile for the first time.
Laird can round off the afternoon with Ideal Summer, who has been improving since blinkers were fitted. Charlie Bucket has won his last two in good style, while Pressure Point could be the surprise package.
