SA National log leader Paul Peter saddled the Jackpot at the rescheduled Vaal meeting on Tuesday and picked up another few valuable lengths lead on reigning champion Justin Snaith as the title chase nears the final three months home stretch.
It was the Turffontein master’s third Jackpot of his career and he conceded that he actually expected to win five races on the day. His best is six winners on a day.
“I don’t mean to sound arrogant, but I thought we could win five. I fancied Pottinger in the last but he had no luck from his wide draw. Our horses are all in a good space. My two treadmills are working overtime and a lot of the other guys have been hamstrung by the bad weather and an inability to work. So that makes a big difference,” the Hyperpaint-sponsored trainer said modestly.
Hollywoodbets Durban July candidate Flying Bull wins well under Warren Kennedy (Pic – JC Photos)
Bang in-form Warren Kennedy rode all of the Peter winners – City By The Sea, Flying Bull, Ocean Warrior and Astrocyte. The Jackpot paid R 114-70.
While the Hollywoodbets Durban July entries went in on Tuesday morning and are embargoed until Wednesday afternoon as we write, Paul Peter let slip that the second leg winner Flying Bull was actually one of his substantial big race entry.
A winner of 3 of his last 4 starts by a combined 15,75 lengths, the son of Soft Falling Rain is doing well.
“Flying Bull is a very smart sort. He is going in the right direction but will have to win a feature before the Hollywoodbets Durban July. I am fortunate to have some really smart horses in my yard,” he added.
Asked about his SA champion trainer title hopes, Paul says that he doesn’t watch the numbers on the log.
“I make decisions based on what is best for my horses. Watching the log could be distracting! Justin Snaith has a powerful string. He won’t miss a beat in the SA Champions Season and he knows how to win the Durban July – I am still looking for my first. So let’s see how things develop. We are boxing on and I am lucky to have a great team – and top notch owners. I must also commend Warren Kennedy – he is riding so well and I gave him the confidence today. I said ride them, as they are fit. Tomorrow the work starts all over again,” he laughed.
Don’t miss the 2022 R5 million Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July entries announcement at 13h20 on GallopTv on Wednesday.
