Winning three races on the bounce is difficult enough, but four with the handicapper on your tail is even harder. Mark Dixon’s Master Du Rouvray has risen to the challenge each time and can take another step forward in the Middle Stakes at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday evening.
He switches from Scottsville but appears a late-maturing gelding who is finally finding his way. However, victory is no certainty. Uzwano franked the form by winning next time out and now meets Master Du Rouvray at level weights, while Mohave Prince has beaten Uzwano twice recently and has the best of the draw. Tunguska and Cleartherunway have handy weights and both have strong chances. The betting could prove the best guide. Heavy rain forecast for the weekend could also result in the meeting switching from turf to the poly track.
United Tides, in the opener, has improved with every start and was running on late over a mile last time. A claiming apprentice should help. Trip To Venus tries 2000m for the first time, while Judiciary could improve over the longer trip despite Keagan de Melo opting for Yogas Govender’s runner.
Predator’s Crown has been consistent in four starts and was close-up over this distance last time, although the widest draw is a concern. Yeah Baby’s poor turf debut can be ignored after two promising poly runs. Sean Tarry’s first-timer Pandora Fort could attract market support, while Blazing Belle should appreciate the extra distance.
The Pick 6 opener is a competitive apprentice handicap. War Emperor has been consistent since winning his maiden and gets a claiming apprentice. He can reverse form with Danube, who beat him last time but is only 2.5kg better off. Fort Usher and The Nile Boss, who carries just 48kg, are also serious contenders.
Quest Of Valour has a light weight and could go close in the fourth. War Reporter arrives in good form from the Highveld with De Melo aboard, while recent maiden winner Prized Possession and Dricus, who is well drawn, cannot be ignored.
Beyond All Doubt has shown promise against stronger opposition despite a wide draw and big weight. Bangkok Magic steps up in trip and will be a major threat if handling turf. Blue Steel has the best draw, while Run Forest Run faces a four-point handicap rise after his latest win.
Greek Heritage, a smart second-start winner, returns from a four-month break in the sixth and steps up to a mile. Silver Salute and Pretty Kara, who gets first-time cheekpieces, should challenge, while Arctic Fury could surprise with only 48kg.
In the last, Hurricane Flight’s recent win will attract attention, but she received a hefty 10-point handicap rise. Zena Rose, the previous favourite, could be better suited with a non-claiming apprentice. Splash Of Love and Heavenly Mafia have similar records, but Glen Kotzen’s Heavenly Mafia may be the pick over the longer trip.
