Sean Tarry’s SP top-rated course specialist Matador Man returns to defend his 2017 title in the KZN Breeders Million Mile at Hollywoodbets Greyville today – the only race carded to be run on the turf on the big breeders’ afternoon.
Matador Man – our ratings and history suggest he is one to beat (Pic – Candiese Marnewick)
The Scott Bros bred gelding loves the mile at the city track and he should be a difficult customer to stop.
Matador Man was pulled out of this event in 2018 and aimed at the July after a solid prep in the Greyville / WSB 1900, when he ran third behind Elusive Silva. In hindsight, the move didn’t pay dividends but he has in the interim won the Christmas Handicap here and looks fit and enthusiastic enough to go close on Saturday.
The non black-type feature is restricted to KwaZulu-Natal bred 3-year-olds and older, registered as KwaZulu-Natal bred in terms of the Gold Circle Racing and Gaming Group Thoroughbred Breeder, Stallion and Owner Premium scheme.
The race is framed at weight-for-age plus penalties.
Matador Man’s topweighted stablemate Africa Rising was unplaced in this race last year but his recent third placing behind class stablemate Chimichuri Run showed his ability and well-being, and he looks excellent back up for the stable elect.
Africa Rising – gives Tarry serious firepower back up in this race (Pic – JC Photos)
Wynkelder steps up to a mile after his cracking second to the Gauteng filly La Bella Mia in the recent Gr2 Post Merchants. While the son of Kahal needs to prove himself over the trip, his relaxed style of racing suggest his class could prevail with a bit of luck in running.
Gary Alexanxder’s Unagi ran third in this race last year and has run some cracking races – like his 3 length third to Soqrat in the Horse Chestnut Stakes. He was beaten 6 lengths by Hawwaam last time but will be more comfortable in this league.
The Sultan’s Bazaar – in good form (Pic – Candiese Marnewick)
Dean Kannemeyer’s The Sultan’s Bazaar is a fast improving 3yo who comes in fit off two wins at the track. While he has some ground to make up to take on the hardknockers, he has pulled a 1 draw and should enjoy a decent pace – something which looks near assured.
Mike de Kock’s The Dazzler started his career in fine style in this province and the son of Mogok has maintained a consistent formline in the North – but is often unable to deliver a killer blow when required.
It’s a competitive race where Matador Man will be dawdling early and flying late. He is the real deal over the course and distance and difficult to oppose.
