Reigning SA Champion Jockey Lyle Hewitson had his lead at the top of the national log cut to five after the Vaal Thursday meeting, with the Winning Form-sponsored Muzi Yeni grabbing a treble to Lyle’s one winner.
Lyle Hewitson – ready to go out on a high (Pic – Chase Liebenberg)
The 21 year old Avontuur-sponsored Hewitson rides at his final big race day today at Hollywoodbets Greyville and gave SP readers a snapshot of his thoughts on his various mounts:
First race: Shango
“With capacity for individual improvement and scope amongst most of the youngsters, the 2yo races over a bit of ground can be a bit of a lottery at this stage. Shango stays well and I’d be happy with a quartet finish in a tough race.”
Second race: Moon In June
“She is my only ride outside of the Tarry yard on the day. Robbie and Shannon Hill’s stable has been in good form and I expect her to earn in a competitive race.”
Third race: Spiritofthegroove
“A diminutive but very strong filly, she has answered the questions every time we have asked her. She is up against it but won’t be disgraced.”
Fourth race: Spring Break
“She is a speedy and tough filly and is very capable of earning against the boys.”
Fifth race: Keep Smiling
“She is a very decent filly and I believe she warrants the opportunity of being thrown in the deep end. I think we’d be really thrilled with a top four finish.”
Sixth race: Eden Roc
“Eden Roc is my best and most important ride of the day. He is a really classy son of Var. He is in a good space and doing well. If there is one reservation it could be the question as to how he handles his first attempt at the mile. But he will be right there!”
Seventh race: Shenanigans
“He stays well, but is an aggressive horse and it all hinges on his demeanour and behaviour – and whether he relaxes and allows himself to use his ability.”
Eighth race: Celtic Sea
“She is a champion filly and loaded with class. It is a privilege to ride horse of her ability and she is fit and well. If there is one concern, I believe the drop back in trip to the 1200m could count against her – and it’s never easy taking on the boys.”
Ninth race: Cirillo
“This is the golden race of the day – every one of the runners is a major talent in their own right. Cirillo has proven he is top-class, but does he stay 1800m? This will be his acid test – but he is fit and well and has a big heart.”
Eleventh race: Social Order:
“Social Order is a course and distance winner and really impressed me last time. He is fit and well and I expect him to be in the mix.”
Click on the image below to read the full interview
