The Lammerskraal Stud-bred Go Deputy filly Tambalang opened new career horizons when, trying the 2400m for the first time, she powered home to win the Listed Aquanaut Handicap at Turffontein on Saturday – taking Lyle Hewitson a step closer to setting a new SA apprentice win record.
Lyle Hewitson sends Tambalang on her way to a first stakes success (Pic – JC Photographics)
Lyle Hewitson came within a win of equalling Gavin Lerena’s record after a race in which he earned his riding commission.
Sean Tarry was once again to the fore on the big day – winning 40% of the features – although, probably not winning exactly the two he may have picked, had he had the choice.
But in a tough game, everybody takes what they can get and the 4yo Tambalang looks to have a future in the staying ranks, after a resolute win.
As the handily weighted Sheet Weaver led the way, Lyle Hewitson found himself and Tambalang the bridge between two races within-a-race, as fifteen lengths covered the two groups of runners. The backmarkers seemed inordinately relaxed about what was happening up front!
Avontuur sponsored Lyle Hewitson – on the verge of new record
Hewitson kept Tambalang covered for as long as he could, before producing the the 4yo with a challenge at the 400m.
With nothing really quickening off the muddling pace, Tambalang stayed on best to hold Kitty’s Destiny to 1,25 lengths in a time of 154,02 secs.
The winner’s stablemate Witchcraft was well beaten, a further 3,75 lengths away in third.
The fancied Kilrain was probably left with too much to do and he failed to make the frame, despite staying on from way back.
Purchased for R100 000 by Chris van Niekerk’s Rainbow Beach Trading off the 2015 Lanzerac Ready To Run Sale, the Lammerskraal Stud-bred Tambalang is a daughter of Go Deputy (Deputy Minister) out of the one-time winner, Salita (Western Winter).
This was her first stakes score and she took her earnings to R422 150 with her fourth win from 16 starts – with 8 places on the board.
This was a strangely run race and it will be interesting to see how the form holds up in time.
