Green Sapphire’s victory in the Grade 3 Umzimkhulu Stakes over 1400m at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Monday, 31 March 2025, resulted in an increase in her official merit rating, which rose from 95 to 104.
Green Sapphire’s merit rating has been increased to 104 (Pic – Candiese Lenferna)
The Handicappers believed that the runner-up, Gimmie’s Countess, had not performed below the 104 rating she produced in the Grade 3 SplashOut Prix Du Cap, which was also contested over 1400m. Consequently, Gimme’s Countess’ rating of 104 was used to assess the Umzimkhulu Stakes.
Gimmie’s Countess has failed to confirm her pre-rating of 108 in her last five starts and was reduced slightly to a rating of 107.
Three other runners had their merit ratings raised following the race. Regeneration, who finished in third place, was increased from 91 to 100, fourth-placed Jeanne Darc was raised from 83 to 99 and Magical View was elevated from 90 to 96.
The adjustment made above will ensure that these fillies compete under the correct handicap terms in future races and serve effectively for balloting (eliminations) purposes.
BYERLEY TURK (Grade 3)
Oxalis Gold has had her official merit rating raised from 97 to 107 following her win in the Byerley Turk (Grade 3) over 1400m. In assessing the race, the Handicappers determined that the runner-up, Cats Pajamas, was the most suitable line horse for rating this event, leaving his rating unchanged at 115.
There were merit ratings increases for two more runners. O’tenikwa, who finished third was raised to 107 from 106, while Bourbon Warrior was adjusted to 100 from 96.
Two horses received downward adjustments. Dantonfromsandton was reduced from 106 to 104. Golden Rule was given a significant drop from 97 to 90.
Media release by the NHA on Wednesday, 02 April 2025.
