SHOOT THE RAPIDS and POETS WARRIOR are proven with unbeaten course-and-distance records, and both should remain competitive. The former has a enjoyed an ideal prep and was a wide-margin winner over track and trip when last seen on the Highveld, while the latter should strip fitter after a much-needed comeback. However, conceding weight (6kg and 4kg respectively) to maturing younger rival ENFLAME may prove a bridge too far, with this extended trip likely to unlock further improvement from the last-start 2850m Listed winner. Veteran NEBRAAS consistent ALADDIN'S LAMP complete the shortlist.
Another fair run when 10/1 and 2nd of 6 runners, 1.60 lengths behind FIELD MARSHAL over 1750m at SCOTTSVILLE on 05 April 26. C+D winner - big say here.
Pace-well back 3rd when 9/2 and 3rd of 10 runners, 11.25 lengths behind ENFLAME over 2850m at TURFFONTEIN STANDSIDE on 04 April 26. Tightened up, unbeatn C+D.
No answer to winner when 5/2 and 2nd of 10 runners, 5.00 lengths behind ENFLAME over 2850m at TURFFONTEIN STANDSIDE on 04 April 26. 2,5kg better #4, peak run.
Too good-top stayer when 33/10 and 1st of 10 runners, 5.00 lengths ahead ENFLAME over 2850m at TURFFONTEIN STANDSIDE on 04 April 26. Maturing stayer, go close.
Never in it when 20/1 and 7th of 10 runners, 23.50 lengths behind ENFLAME over 2850m at TURFFONTEIN STANDSIDE on 04 April 26. Honest 9yo, blinkrs refit.
Blowing when 16/1 and 9th of 9 runners, 16.15 lengths behind KING'S EXPRESS over 1600m at TURFFONTEIN INSIDE on 09 April 26. Versatile, trying dstance.
Slow into stride when 33/1 and 9th of 10 runners, 25.75 lengths behind ENFLAME over 2850m at TURFFONTEIN STANDSIDE on 04 April 26. 2025 winner, out of sorts.
Never in it when 40/1 and 9th of 10 runners, 7.15 lengths behind THE PLAYBOY BOMBER over 2000m at TURFFONTEIN INSIDE on 09 April 26. Peak run, better expected.
Brush twice-notridd when 5/1 and 1st of 8 runners, 0.30 lengths ahead ROYAL INVITATION over 2400m at SCOTTSVILLE on 05 April 26. Unknwn quantity this trip.
SHOOT THE RAPIDS and POETS WARRIOR are proven with unbeaten course-and-distance records, and both should remain competitive. The former has a enjoyed an ideal prep and was a wide-margin winner over track and trip when last seen on the Highveld, while the latter should strip fitter after a much-needed comeback. However, conceding weight (6kg and 4kg respectively) to maturing younger rival ENFLAME may prove a bridge too far, with this extended trip likely to unlock further improvement from the last-start 2850m Listed winner. Veteran NEBRAAS consistent ALADDIN'S LAMP complete the shortlist.
