• Stan Elley
• Alastair Gordon
• Mark Dixon
• Dylan Cunha
• Herman Brown
• Michael Roberts
• Vaughan Marshall
• Gavin Smith
• Charles Laird
• Dominic Zaki
• Duncan Howells
• Basil Marcus
• Gavin van Zyl
• Justin Snaith
• Mike Azzie
• Brett Crawford
• Joey Ramsden
• Alan Greeff
• Dean Kannemeyer
• Lucky Houdalakis
• Sean Tarry
• Gary Alexander
• Glen Kotzen
• Mike Bass

Stan Elley is a familiar face to Tellytrack viewers in his role as on course presenter for Cape racing, but of course he earns his main crust as a trainer. He grew up in Oudtshoorn on Westbank Stud, which was owned by his father, and produced the July winner of 1964 in Numeral.

He gained experience in the yard of Theo De Klerk, but his primary early influence was assistant trainer Trevor Batten. He also paid his dues at Newmarket in the UK, before "turning pro" and acquiring a trainers licence as far back as 1974. Starting with 6 leased fillies provided by his brother, he tasted early success when Turn Right won the Libra Hcp.

This was something of a romantic story, as Turn Right had been retired and was only brought back into the yard to lead the six babies. He started showing up well, was put back in full training, and duly scored a maiden feature win for the fledgling yard.

2005 KZN Guineas winner Kapil is the best horse Stan has trained, and the good news for his fans is that he will be arriving back from his sojourn in Dubai at the beginning of May. The talented stayed Red Badge also gets an honourable mention, and now has a most comfortable retirement as part of the Elley household in Tokai.
The yard currently has a complement of 30, of whom no fewer than 18 are juveniles. The vast majority of these are unraced, so the stable could be one to look out for in the coming months.

And so to the horses...

Horses

Older Colts and Geldings

Kapil Jallad - Outstanding Star(Bletchingly)
The best horse I've had the pleasure to train. He gets back into the country on 5 May, and will be in quarantine for a month. I will assess his well being after that, and assuming all is shipshape he will be prepared for the Cape season at the end of the year.

3yo Colts/Geldings

Allibar Tara's Halls - Opposition(Al Mufti)
A talented but rather wayward individual. The type of horse who needs everything to go his way. He runs on strongly if there is a strong gallop, but tends to produce nothing if there is no pace on. Certain to win more races, but not the most reliable sort.

Royal Parade Parade Leader - Catwalk Kate(Model Man)
He took ten attempts to shed his maiden ticket, but then won in facile fashion. He should stay further than a mile, and will continue to improve.

Scorpion King Doowaley - Look Of The Times(Northfields)
A nice stayer in the making. He is improving steadily as he matures, and he will be travelling to PE for the EP Derby in a month's time.

3yo Fillies

Heyday Strike Smartly - Lady Of Time(Northern Guest)
She ran on in her latest over 1800m, and will win races over ground. She is better than her current record of one win in eleven starts would suggest.

Rei Rei Doowaley - Late Night Live(Fine Edge)
She has been most unlucky on more than one occasion, and it's hard to believe she is still only a two-time winner. She had a good sprint last Tuesday (2nd to useful 3yo colt Gaultier), and will take her place in the KZN Fillies Guineas on Saturday. Capable of surprising in a race of that nature, as there don't seem to be any superstars among the 3yo fillies this year.

Kings Cross Silvano - Opposition(Al Mufti)

Spear Of Destiny Dansili - Zanakiya(Doyoun)
Purchased at the recent Equimark sale, and certainly the most nobly born individual I have ever had. He should turn out to be a miler, but obviously it's early days, particularly as he is Northern Hemisphere bred.

Alistair Dill Gordon is something of a perennial figure among KZN conditioners, and indeed took out his license way back in 1973. He had no family background in racing, but worked with Basil Cooper in KZN, and Harry Thomson-Jones at Newmarket in the UK, before striking out on his own.

Alistair's father was his biggest supporter when he opened up with a mere six equines, and Jim McIntosh was another important early influence, as he helped smooth the way towards taking up the job as assistant to Basil Cooper.

Brilliant filly Scarlet Lady rates as the best Alastair has had. She was the ARCSA champion sprinter of 1980 after winning the Gr1 Allan Robertson, and SA Fillies Sprint. Her untimely early death however was something of a hammer blow, and an unwelcome reminder of how fickle the racing gods can be.

And so to the horses...

3yo Colts/Geldings

Hold My Jacket Strike Smartly - Gia's Secret(Al Mufti)
Improving nicely, and showed a lot of guts to win last Friday at Greyville after being headed inside the final furlong. An inspired Anthony Delpech ride didn't do any harm either. He will be better as a 4yo, and should pay to follow.

3yo Fillies

Miss Mandela National Assembly - Model Guest(Northern Guest)

Nepeta Tale Of The Cat - Fleet Marguerite(Gulch)

Queen's Flight Choisir - Royal Proclamation(Kingmambo)

White Lies Qui Danzig - Ladies Game (Elliodor)

Wishing Chair Giant's Causeway - Grosvenor Gardens(Grosvenor)
I am lucky to have a handful of fillies with good potential this year. Two or three of these will make their mark in the coming year, but I wouldn't want to single out a particular individual at present.

Anda Orpen - Avian Talk(Confidential Talk)

Hypothetical Qui Danzig - Hyperdrive(Plugged Nickle)

King's Shilling Rich Man's Gold - Lustrous Lass(Lustra)

Melly Boy Malhub - Vaudeville(Sapieha)

Rainbow Warrior National Emblem- Extraordinary(Dolpour)

Most of these are unraced, but it looks like we have a few useful prospects. As we all know with babies nothing is certain until it happens before your eyes under race conditions. Let's hold thumbs!

When he was but twelve, affable KZN trainer Mark Dixon felt an urge to work in racing stables. So logically enough he wrote a letter to Lester Piggott. Not knowing the great mans precise whereabouts it was optimistically posted to Mr L.Piggott - Newmarket. Surprisingly enough he received a reply from the reclusive genius (but no offer of financial backing!), and was put in touch with his brother in law Robert Armstrong.
Mark worked for the Armstrong yard in his school holidays from then on. After completing his education he joined the yard of champion jump trainer Joss Giffard, who he rates his primary early influence. He also had a spell as a National Hunt jockey in the UK, and then took out a training licence in 1990.
He first came to SA for the Rugby World Cup of 1995. Obviously impressed by what he saw, he returned the following year, and was an assistant to Vaughn Marshall before setting out under his own steam in 2000.
Star filly Dancal is the best horse to have passed through his hands. Conversely she was involved in Mark's darkest hour as a trainer. She was hurt in the paddock and scratched on veterinary grounds at the start when odds on favourite for the Gr1 Garden Province on July day 2002. Sound as a bell the next day, Mark is adamant she could and should have run.
Mark is married to Hayley, and they have two young children Callum (6) and Cerys(18 months).

Dylan Cunha announced his arrival in the 'big time' last November, when Strategic News romped away with the Gr1 Steinhoff International Summer Cup at Turffontein. Another reason to be cheerful was that Dylan had placed a decent wager on the horse at 100/1 in the ante post market, so it was smiles all round!

Father Louie was a breeder at Weenen in KZN in days gone by, with Shah's Star perhaps the most prominent output from his operation. He still owns a few mares, in residence with Terry and Annabel Andrews at Sorrento Stud in Paarl.

The young Cunha spent two years working with Barry Hills in the UK, before returning to spend twice that span as assistant to the Snaith outfit in Cape Town. During that time he managed to win three workriders' races during the course of 2001. He took out his trainers licence at the start of 2004.

Barry Hills rates the biggest influence on Dylan's career thus far, and he uses what might be termed 'English' methods at home. This means a greater emphasis on longer and slower work, and is also reflected in the fact that most of his success has come over staying type trips.

No prizes for guessing that Strategic News is the best to have passed though his hands so far, and the Summer Cup hero has 'improved' since that triumph according to Dylan. That day was also the highlight of his short career, particularly as Pacific Charm won the Gr3 Racing Association Handicap on the same afternoon.

Recently the yard has gone through something of a 'down' period, as a severe virus has played havoc with more than one Vaal based operation. The corner seems to have been turned though, with a winner last week. Just in time for the Gauteng Autumn season proper.

And so to the horses...

Horses

Older Colts and Geldings

Pacific Warrior Dominion Royale - Pacific Sunrise(Twig Moss)

He placed in three Graded staying races last year, and definitely has it in him to pull off a decent race one day soon. He has really come good lately, and I expect him to go very close in the Gr3 Caradoc Gold Cup this weekend.  He will compete in the July, assuming he qualifies, and then the Canon Gold Cup at Greyville.

My best horse by far, and still an entire. He has improved since his brilliant Summer Cup win, and is unbeaten in two starts on the Turffontein standside track. He will come out for the Gr1 Horse Chestnut on April 5, before taking on the Gomma Gomma Challenge a month later. His planned program then takes in the Gr3 Jubilee Hcp, before a crack at the July.

Herman Brown Jr had no chance. With both his father and grandfather being prominent in the 'trade', it would have been like George W. Bush not deciding on politics if he had taken up another career. After being around the yard since his school days, Herman took over from his dad in 1984, and has enjoyed more than his fair share of success since.
In recent years the stable has branched out into Dubai with notable success. The exploits of Linngari spring readily to mind, and that one will be hoping to go one better after a grand second in the $5m Dubai Duty Free last year. Stable companions Jay Peg and Sushisan are also both expected to appear somewhere on the March 29 'night of truth', and it could be a time to remember.
Talking of which, Herman has good reason to looks back on his 1992 wedding day with fondness. The stable won four races including the Gr2 Gold Vase, before the main event come evening time. He is married to Natasha, and they have a ten-year-old son Lee.
Assistant Frank Robinson has put in stalwart service holding the fort while the boss is away, while Herman snr is also still actively involved as well. Highly promising jockey Brandon Lerena completes what is a thoroughly professional set-up.
And so to the horses...

Charlies Island Lizard Island - Lady Camilla(Jallad)
A strong, improving type, and certainly one of the best Lizard Islands around. He won the Gr2 Clairwood Christmas Hcp last Boxing day, and with only two defeats in seven starts, has done very little wrong. Still has scope, and will win more races.

Older Fillies

There's The Light Jallad - Sonic Light(Grosvenor)
A big, scopey filly who will win her races. She showed plenty of guts in winning her latest, and will pay to follow.

3yo Colts/Geldings

Ballito Boy Mogok - Dolphin Coast(Dolpour)
A sprinter who has done well.  His absolute maximum is 1400m, but he will win races, and with a bit of luck could pick up a listed race at some stage.

Bucked Off Casey Tibbs - See Me Fly (Caesour)
Yet to race for us, but has been acquired with a view to competing in Dubai. He finished a close up third in the Cape Derby, despite finding interference, and his main mission for the KZN campaign will be the Daily News 2200.

Golden Riviera Goldmark - South Of France(Elliodor)
Similar story to Bucked Off, and of course ran fourth in the Cape Derby. Will probably participate in the KZN Guineas , and then on to the '2200'.

3yo Fillies

Annawood Fort Wood - Clair Anne(Gallic League)
A progressive filly who is looking towards the KZN Fillies Guineas. The form of her latest has been franked, and she will continue to improve. Unfortunately a planned prep run was washed out at Scottsville last Sunday.

Kabamba Sportsworld - Silk Wind(Al Mufti)
He finished strongly to win second time out, after a good third on debut. He has plenty of potential, and should get a mile in time.

Michael Leonard Roberts would be one of the first inductees if there were a 'Hall Of Fame' recognising local riding talent. One day while growing up in Oudtshoorn, he chanced upon an ad for the jockeys' academy in a magazine. After a fair amount of pestering, his dad agreed to apply, and the 14 year old Roberts arrived at the academy in 1968. Garth Puller and Paddy Kruyer were among his contemporaries, and the rest is history.
He was SA champion on countless occasions, and rounded off a sparkling career by notching the UK jockey's title in 1992. Working with great conditioners such as Fred Rickaby, Henry Cecil and Sir Michael Stoute was a great 'prep' for a training career, and that avenue has been explored since 2005.
West Coast Gold is the best he has worked with so far. He produced an outstanding personal moment by winning the listed Michael Roberts Handicap at Scottsville in January. "A special event for both myself and my family" is how Michael sums up that day.
Silver Empire (now sold to Australia) stands out in the female ranks, but Mr Roberts doubtless has plenty of top sorts in his immediate future. He now works out of Barrington Stables, his own training centre near Howick in the KZN Midlands. This move is really starting to pay dividends after a settling in period, and the future is an exciting prospect.
And so to the horses...
Older Colts and Geldings

Dorian Gray Manaloj - Wild And Wicked(Argosy)
He has continued to improve, and showed plenty of guts to win his latest. Has won his last two, and will develop into a fair sort.

Tropical Empire Second Empire - Tropical Touch(Pago Pago)
A talented sprint/miler, but not the soundest of characters, so we have to be a bit careful with him. He will run in the Drill Hall Stakes, but his main mission for the near future is the Golden Horse Casino Sprint at Scottsville in May.

West Coast Gold Rich Man's Gold - West Coast Mama(Gone West)
The most talented I have had so far, and of course won my namesake race (the listed Michael Roberts Handicap) at Scottsville in January. He will participate in the Gr3 Kings Cup at Greyville, and then the Gr2 Astrapak 1900.

Older Fillies

Bold Wonder Blackfriars - Baroota Wonder(Chief's Crown)
A lightly raced filly, as she has a few niggling problems. Has a decent turn of foot, and can get black type in time.

Garden Princess Bletchley Park - English Garden(Twig Moss)
A very nice sprint filly, who has already earned black type after running second in the Magnolia Handicap at Turffontein. She can win something decent in the KZN season.

3yo Colts/Geldings

Dauntless Delance Scenic - French Sound(Ksar)
An imported Australian horse. His dam won 13 races up to 1400m, including a Gr2. Unraced, but will be coming out shortly, and should develop into a decent miler.

Varese Joshua Dancer - Vain Affair(Vain)
Amazingly still a maiden, considering the good work he gives us at home. Will win his races, and far better than what he has shown on the track so far. 

3yo Fillies

Dream Consular Lord Dane - Court Scandal(Is It True)
Scored a fluent win on her only racecourse appearance, defeating Phenomina, who promptly won her next three. I think quite a lot of her, and she will be aimed at the KZN Fillies Guineas.

Hot Ember National Emblem - Summer Bonnet(Harry Hotspur)
She disappointed in her post maiden outing, but is better than that. I am still trying to work out what her proper trip is, but she will turn into an above average filly.

Vaughan Marshall has enjoyed a long career in the training ranks, taking out his licence in 1981. As is true of most subjects of this feature, he has a deep-rooted background in the business of Racing, with both parents making their living as bookmakers.
His formative years in KZN were spent as assistant to Alastair  Gordon and Tony Furness. He rates both of those as major influences, as well as Terrence Millard, who gave plenty of advice and 'helped a lot'.
Highlights include winning the Cape Guineas on three occasions, namely with Sea Warrior(1985), Face North(1989), and Captain Al(1999). Sadly the second named was killed in a truck disaster while travelling to Gauteng for the Germiston November Handicap. He rates among the best Marshall has trained, along with Captain Al, and the champion sprinter Taban. Another red-letter day was La Fabulous’ great win in the J&B Met of 1995.
And so to the horses...

Horses

Older Colts and Geldings

Genius My King Captain Al - Intrigue(Foveros)
A decent handicapper, who will be a consistent earner, and will win a couple more. Much better than a poor effort at Durbanville last Sunday.
Golden Ivory Goldkeeper - Flaming Ivory(Kala Dancer)
He won the Gr2 Diadem at the end of 2006, beating Pocket Power, but has disappointed since. He has been on the farm for a spell and has just come back into work, so we will have to see how he shapes.
Play Catch Casey Tibbs - Pure Speed(Speedwona)
He has gone from strength to strength of late, not missing a cheque at any of his last nine. Since he is best in soft going, there should be a couple more wins to come in the winter months.

3yo Colts/Geldings

Bullion Rich Man's Gold - Avon Rouge(Divine King)
He hasn't come back to his best form in recent starts, having been hard hit by a virus. A very nice horse, who should be effective up to a mile.
Fastnetrock Qui Danzig - Miss Rockstar(Flaming Rock)
Rewarded for consistency last week with a gutsy win at Durbanville. Definitely has a few more wins in him.
Power Control Asaal - Glinkador(Elliodor)
A decent type, and a respectable third in his latest behind Lostintranslation and First Honour. He will stay a mile in time, and will be aimed at the Cape Winter Guineas.
Wethreekings N. Assembly - West Is West(Jungle Warrior)
A honest trier, who is virtually always in the money. He has more wins in him, and will continue to earn consistently.
Zodiac Attack Captain Al - Intrigue(Foveros)
A full brother to Genius My King. He has a decent turn of foot, and is much better than a poor latest, when he failed to quicken. He should stay a mile, and will also be aimed at the Cape Winter Guineas.

3yo Fillies

Ladonna  Kabool - Lena(USA)(Woodman)

Gavin Smith is the latest produce of a sort of PE racing dynasty, as his father and grandfather (both named Andrew) were both trainers in this part of the world. He rode work in his dad's yard from the age of eleven, and after a decade long spell as assistant, took out his licence in 1995.

His father gave Gavin an excellent grounding in the game in terms of principles, honesty, and dealing with people in the correct manner.

Many a good sort has passed through the yard during the past decade. Among the elite he names Double Your Money (a sprinter who won more than ten races), Shoes Of Silver (a classy middle distance type who finished fifth in the Met of 2004), and Stormy Appeal(a versatile filly who completed the local "Triple Crown" in 2003).

A little known fact is that Gavin has had more winners than any other trainer in the country in both of the last two seasons. He is also currently in pole position for this season, with 80 winners compared to official log leader (on stakes) Justin Snaith's 77. Which is an impressive feat considering they only race once a week in PE.

And so to the horses...

Older Colts and Geldings

Juan Pablo Winter Romance - La Deportista(Sportsworld)
He doesn't have the best conformation up front. He has really come well since a long break, winning five races since July last year. His MR is now rather high, but there are a few WFA features coming up which will suit. He just gets a mile, but is best over 12/1400m.
Kipketer Badger Land - Aigrette(Ginistrelli)
He was disappointing on his local debut, but still seems to be acclimatising to his new surroundings, and will certainly improve. Runs over 2400m on Friday.
Pavlovich Soviet Star - Alexandra Bi(Darshaan)
A real soldier, one of the gutsiest you will find anywhere. He arrived from Gauteng with ligament problems, and still goes to the start very scratchy and comes back sore, but always runs his heart out regardless. H e has won four races for me, and should have a couple more in the tank.
Set To Music Badger Land - Jolie Foverins(Foveros)
He has only had a couple of starts for me, and returned with a temperature following a disappointing latest. He runs this Friday in the same race as Kipketer, and should put in a much-improved display.

Older Fillies and Mares

Albarina Albaharin - Pukka Pam(Salaadim)
She hasn't been in these parts long, and appeared over a way too short 1000m on her local debut. She will go to stud later in the year, but before that will compete in the local "triple crown" for Fillies, in an attempt to get black type.
Caboodle Shalford - Caboose(Thunder Cat)
An extremely fast filly who doesn't stay beyond 1000m. She has lower back problems, so is usually at her best when her races aren't too close together.
Cast A Spell Rambo Dancer - Flying Magic(Hansel)
She has done very well locally, winning three fillies' features. She will go to stud later this year, but still has life in her, and appears this Friday at Arlington over a mile.
Compleat Angler Model Man - Oak Fly(Woodman)
She has a decent turn of foot, and has won three races locally. Stays well, and is at her best over 2000m and more. Much better at Fairview than Arlington, as she needs most of the long straight to unwind.

3yo Colts/Geldings
Coverley Mogok - Caselle(Our Casey's Boy)
A talented sort, who has had plenty of setbacks in a short career. Has been plagued by hoof abscesses and overreach wounds to name only a couple of his problems. His maximum trip is a mile, but he probably best over 12/1400.
Huckleberry Jallad - Taineberry(Centaine)
This one will train on nicely. He won the Guineas Plate over a mile in his most recent, and looks a lively Derby prospect.
Island Retreat Mogok - Mayreau(Rakeen)
A small but gutsy and talented type, who has won four of his five starts. He has a very respectable turn of foot, and will have further improvement to come. Gets on well with Lumumba Mofokeng, who has partnered him in every start.
Moscow Circus Russian Revival-Julia's Choice(Jallad)
A very nice stayer in the making. He won his latest comfortably over a mile, and is being aimed at the East Cape Derby. Has a prep run over 1400m on Friday, along with all of the other three.

3yo Fillies
Tarbrush Aptitude - Cheyenne Dream(Dancing Brave)
A talented filly, who has won three of her five outings. Northern hemisphere bred, so should still have ample improvement to come, as she is behind at WFA. She has her problems, but plenty of ability to match, and will be a major factor in the coming local fillies' features. We may race her out of province later, obviously depending on what progress she makes.

Charles Laird has been among our elite conditioners for a few years now. He came tantalisingly close to a first championship last July when pipped on the final Saturday of the season following an enthralling three way tussle with Messrs Woodruff and De Kock,

Currently lying third in the table, only 500K off surprise leader Justin Snaith, he could well go one better at the conclusion of this campaign. Looking at the balance of this feature, he certainly has the stock to make it all possible.

The Laird clan forms one of the dynasties of SA racing. Charles' grandfather Alec rode Nobleman to win the July of 1911, while fellow trainers Dennis Drier and Alec Laird are both cousins. Little needs to be said about his uncle Sid Laird  - one of the true legends among SA trainers. Father Russel was also a trainer, and Charles learnt the ropes in his yard as assistant from 1990-95. Unsurprisingly his father was his biggest early influence.

National Emblem stands alone as the best horse to have passed through his hands, and got his career off to a brilliant start when he took the Gr2 John Skeaping in 1995 on the first race day after Charles was granted a training licence. Another obvious highlight was when Hunting Tower flashed up to win the Vodacom July last year - a race every SA trainer dreams of winning.

And so to the horses...

Pick Six Rambo Dancer - Choice Field(Rami)
Another top class type, and of course was victorious in the Gomma Gomma last year. His immediate program will be identical to Hunting Tower.

Our Giant Giant's Causeway - Macrosa(McGinty)
Ran a storming second in the Met, but was given a harsh 8 point (4kg) hike in his merit rating for it. Another who will next appear in the Horse Chestnut and Gomma Gomma.

Rebel King National Emblem - Cousin Linda(Badger Land)
We are trying a different route with him, and he will run in the Hawaii Stakes over 1400m on 1 March. If he stays, which I am confident he will, he will then be tried over a mile, which will open up a lot more possibilities for him.

3yo Colts/Geldings

Causation Giant's Causeway - Wily Trick(Clever Trick)
He was rather disappointing at the Cape. If he proves to stay that far he will be aimed at the SA Derby at Turffontein in April.

Eight Street Street Cry - Figure Of Eight(Octagonal)
He looks like an out and out stayer, and will also be aimed at the SA Derby.

Red Lucifer N. Emblem - Blushing Bloom(Harry Hotspur)
He was an impressive winner of his third start, trouncing Galaxy, who went on to finish third in the Cape Guineas. Unfortunately had a knee chip removed after that, but appears fully recovered judging by his work at home. The Gauteng season will be too soon for him, but he is a top horse whose next mission will be the Gr2 KZN Guineas.

3yo Fillies

Acoustical Red Ransom - Blagdon(Gone West)
She won the listed Three Troikas in her latest when tried beyond sprints, and is an extremely talented filly who will continue to improve. She will next take on the Gr2 Gauteng Fillies Guineas.

Animated Silvano - Swanilda(Harry Hotspur)
A top class sprint filly who has won her last two in grand style. She will appear again in a couple of weeks time, but her main mission for the immediate future is the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint at Scottsville in May. 

Blue Swift Redoute's Choice - Divine Light(Zabeel)
A top filly who has won both her starts in fine style. She will be aimed at the Gauteng Fillies Guineas and Classic.

Rock's Broad Rock Of Gibraltar - Prized Glory(Prized)
Consistent sort, who has two wins and four seconds from her six outings. Will continue to improve, and will take her chances in the Gauteng Guineas and Classic. 

Uber Rock Rock Of Gibraltar - Uber Frau(Sadler's Wells)
She was tried up to a mile, but doesn't stay, and seems best over six furlongs. A talented sort who will win her races. 

The seemingly ever-smiling Dominic Zaki is certainly among our leading trainers when it comes to affability. His track record isn't half bad either, with the achievements of Gr1 winner National Spirit springing readily to mind.
His late father Teddy was an owner for over 50 years, and Dominic was consequently exposed to the game at a relatively early age. He paid his dues as assistant to George Tambourias, who was his father's trainer of choice, and took out a private license in 1992, looking after his dad's string. After Teddy's sad passing five years ago, Dominic became an "open" trainer, and the yard has hardly looked back since.
Dominic is married to Beverley, and the couple have three daughters - 8yo Savannah, toddler Montana, and new arrival Elektra. Beverley is readily acknowledged as the biggest influence on her husband's training career, and is heavily involved in the PR and Admin side of the business, as is Mathew 'The Whisperer' Stevens, who looks after the stable website.
Unsurprisingly, National Spirit is rated the best horse the stable has had, with his Dingaans’ win on Summer Cup day 2004 being a particular highlight. The erratic Talahatchie provided the yard with a maiden Gr1 win when he won the Premiers Champion Stakes of 2005, and is mentioned in the same breath. 
And so to the horses...

Older Colts and Geldings

National Spirit National Emblem - Meretrix(Model Man)
Now back in training following a well-earned rest on the farm. A brilliant servant to the yard, and his first mission will be the WFA Drill Hall Stakes at Greyville in May - a race he has won and been runner up in over the past two years. 
Mentor National Assembly - Wise Dame (Argosy)
Finished a game third last Saturday, and still has a few more wins in him. He is being aimed at the Gr2 Hawaii S at the end of this month. 
Hurricane Silver Hurricane Sky - Protegee(Last Tycoon)
This one has done nothing wrong, and finished fourth in the Wolf Power 1600 in his latest, after two good wins. He can pick up a Listed or Graded race at some stage. Super Profit Spinning World - Asian Incline(Slant)
He has been given a short break following a few disappointing efforts. H e will be back for the KZN feature sprints, after his great win in the Gr2 Post Merchants at Greyville last year.

Older Fillies and Mares

Surabi Wolfhound - Gypsy Queen(Royal Chalice)
She was an unlucky loser a fortnight ago when third in the Gr3 Acacia Hcp. Her next appearance will be in the Gr1 Empress Club Stakes at the end of this month.

3yo Colts/Geldings

Eddington Model Man - Sit Alkul(Mr Prosperctor)
One of the nicest 3yos I have ever had. He is as good if not better than National Spirit was at this stage of his career, and hacked up in the Sea Cottage after running 2nd in the Dingaans. He will compete in all the big 3yo races in Gauteng (Guineas/SA Classic/SA Derby), before heading down to KZN for the Daily News 2200 and Vodacom July. 
Gathering Stars N. Assembly - Stars Sister(Golden Thatch)
An exciting up and coming sprinter. He won a MR104 event last Saturday to complete a smart hat trick despite it being a prep run for the Gr3 Tommy Hotspur Handicap in a fortnights time.
Southern Summer W. Winter - Marie Galante(Mexico II)
He has won two of four. A sprinter out of the excellent mare Marie Galante, he will continue to improve and is certainly worth following. 
Strike Paradise Strike Smartly - Tree Of Paradise(Fort Wood)
He has won two of five, and is much better than his latest in the Tony Ruffel, where he took a hold and went way too fast early. An above average type.

 3yo Fillies

Paint The Town London News - Jukao(Shoe Danzig)
Got some welcome black type last time, when she stayed on for third in the Gr3 Three Troikas over 1450m on the Turffontein inner track. She will next run in the Gauteng Fillies Guineas at the end of the month.

KZN trainer Duncan Howells has enjoyed a fair share of success in recent times, with the high point coming when sprinter Zeeno scored a stunning win in the 2006 Gr1 Gold Medallion at Scottsville. That one has since been sold to Sheik Rashid and exported to Dubai, but there is still plenty of untapped talent in his barns, as we will find out later.
Duncan was raised in PE, where his father Trevor was a trainer. Another family and racing connection from that part of the world is Gavin Smith, who is a cousin.
He started out as assistant to both Eric Sands and David Payne before taking out his licence, and scored a win with his very first runner(an otherwise undistinguished filly called Whispering Magic).
He has a few exciting 3yos in residence at present, and this could well be a stable worth following over the next few months.

And so to the horses...

Older Colts and Geldings
Ravenscraig Muhtafal-Rebel Qui(Qui Danzig)
He was listed placed as a 3yo, and has come back well after 18 months on the sidelines due to heart strain. He was 2nd in the Marula Sprint last Sunday and may well have won without an inspired ride by Bernard Fayd’Herbe on Press King. He should be competitive in the smaller feature sprints of the KZN season.

St Raphael Up And At 'Em - South Of France(Elliodor)
Lightly raced 6yo who has won five races. He is honest, sound, strong and talented, which obviously are four useful attributes if a horse is to be successful. He would have won the Christmas Handicap in another stride, and his next mission will be the forthcoming Gr3 Kings Cup, which is run on handicap terms.

Super Fort Fort Wood - Temperance(Ringaro)
Five year old stayer who has only been to the races seven times, winning twice. He has soundness problems, but he will be competitive in staying races if those are now behind him.

3yo Colts/Gelding
Rebellious Streak Deep Sleep - Rebel Qui(Qui Danzig)
A half brother to Ravenscraig, and I would rate this one my best 3yo colt at present. Has only raced three times, and finished only a length off Street Cat in his post-maiden outing. Still very green and immature, and is a sprinter with huge potential.

Select The Star Announce - Stately Belle(Kenmare)
He has only had two 1200m sprints so far, and finished strongly last time, going down a short head to the heavily backed Fantasma. He was nowhere near ready that day, and is an immature horse who I think will stay 2000m. Will win his races.

3yo Fillies
Finger In The Pie Cordoba - Model Star(Model Man)
She has a decent turn of foot, and has won her last two in good style. She can be placed anywhere in her races, and the next few months will tell us if she is good enough for the KZN Guineas.

Gavin Van Zyl was a familiar face in our jockey ranks, and after hanging up his (riding) boots in November 2006, has quickly made his mark as a trainer. Talented filly Laser Fan notched a first Graded success last Tuesday when she scored in the Flamboyant Stakes at Greyville, and the future looks bright.

Gavin lived near Turffontein as a boy, and was around the track from a very early age. He rode his first winner in 1976, and sat on some top horses like Special Preview, Roland's Song, Smackeroo, and Harry's Charm along the way. After many years local riding experience, he also worked in various Macau yards, while riding there between 2003-6.
He took out a trainer's licence on 11 December 2006 with a mere four horses, but now has roughly forty in residence. His yard is dominated by youngsters, and with unraced 2yo's by the likes of Johannesburg and Street Cry waiting in the wings, there is a lot to look forward to.
Open Sea is a well-known face around KZN yards, as he worked with David Payne for over 30 years. Gavin values the hard work put in by his assistant extremely highly, and they seem to work well together.
Gavin must be older than he looks, as he has been married to Shannon for no less than 26 years, and the oldest of their five strong brood is a daughter of 23!
And so to the horses...

3yo Colts/Geldings
Cape Town Silvano - Russian Nature(Russian Fox)
Was a recent maiden winner, and has above average ability. He should win a few more.
Ketchup Slew The Red - Saucy Thatch(Muhtafal)
Surprisingly still a maiden, but has been unlucky on more than one occasion. Will win soon, and I suspect his 2nd win will come a lot quicker than the first.
Nomandla Albaharin - Perennial Power(Snippets)
He has battled of late, after running places behind some good types in his first few outings. Will bounce back, and sure to pick up a race sooner rather than later.
Lastmanstanding Lavery - Flagwaver(Hard Up)
Another hard knocker, who should pick up a race in his next two or three outings.

3yo Fillies
Laser Fan Fanatic Dane- Sandton City(Al Mufti)
Has been very good to me, as she provided my first winner, and then last week gave me a maiden stakes win when taking the Gr3 Flamboyant at Greyville. Still only a two time winner, so we will probably take the "easy" Graduation option next, before moving towards the Fillies' features of the KZN season.
Saltwater Girl Modern Day - Surfers Eye(Elliodor)
This filly has a decent turn of foot, but hasn't found a clear passage in her last two. She is above average, and will win her fair share of races.
Europa Count Dubois - World's Best(Hard Up)
She has produced a couple of close up places, and should crack her maiden in the near future.
Private Affair Captain Al - Raise-A-Royal(Royal Chalice)
She stayed on well for fourth on debut. Will improve, and sure to win her races. 

A regular series in which Ken Nicol speaks to trainers countrywide about themselves, and more importantly the horseflesh residing in their yards.
Seamus Justin Snaith is among the more charismatic of our younger trainers, and has been riding the crest of a formidable wave lately, capped by the victory of Captain's Lover in the recent Avontuur Estate Cape Fillies Guineas.

He was of course born into the "game", as father Chris was a top trainer for many years. In addition his mother Sue was a top show jumper and was also very involved in the establishment of the Snaith stable. Brother Jonathan is also heavily involved in the yard of course, and is a vital cog in running the business.
Snaith the elder was the primary influence on Justin - he describes his dad as "an amazing horseman whose patience and temperament have earned him the reputation he has today.
I hope the apple falls close to the tree".
Justin skipped varsity after school, and travelled to Australia where he worked for Champion trainer David Hayes. On returning to SA he was an assistant to St John Gray and Mike Bass for roughly a year apiece, before he took up the position of assistant to his dad. Then in 2001 Chris dedicated himself to looking after Sabine Plattner's string, and Justin took over the helm.
The legendary Flaming Rock was a multiple Gr1 winner for Chris Snaith in the early 1990's, and Justin still rates this one as the best horse he has been associated with in SA this far. He also worked and rode Melbourne Cup winner Jeune during his time in Australia, and puts that one on the same level.
Unsurprisingly, 1 December 2007 provided the highlight of a career which still has a long road to travel. On that day Captain's Lover notched the Fillies Guineas in a thrilling finish, after Crimson's Blossom and Jabulani Jive had finished 1-2 in the listed Victress Stakes scarcely half an hour earlier. Winning 5 races on J&B Met day a couple of years ago also went down well, but Justin's career is just taking off and many thrills and spills are surely still ahead of him.
And so to the horses...

Older Fillies & Mares
Dancer's Daughter Act One - Reason To Dance (Damister)
She is doing particularly well and did not have the best of luck in the recent Premiers Trophy where I thought she could have run closer than her 4th. She will be spot on for the Paddock Stakes this Saturday. This is the best filly I have trained for Mr. Graham Beck so keep a very close eye on her this season.
Jabulani Jive Jallad - Proud Peyton(N. Assembly)
Bred by Highlands and owned by Maine Chance, she gained valuable black type when running 2nd to Crimson Blossom in the listed Victress Stakes. She is a gutsy and consistent filly and I feel she will have more to offer in the future.
Crimson Blossom Danehill Dancer - Dabtara(Kayhasi)
Shewon the Victress Stakes very impressively and will next appear in the Paddock Stakes.
Quebec Express Arch - Quick Courtship(Fast Play)
Another Graham Beck owned filly who is ultra consistent and unlucky not to have won more thus far. She impresses me back home and is black type material. Ran a close up second last Saturday in a MR84 Fillies.

3yo Colts & Geldings
Alvaro Galileo - Gun Lady(Thatching)
This is a smart sort and he won most impressively on his first trip around the turn. That was an eye-catching performance and he will run in the Gr1 Cape Guineas on Saturday.
Russian Sage Jallad - Sage Blue(Badger Land)
He was my top selection at the National Sale last year and I was extremely grateful when Fieldspring Racing had faith and purchased him for me. He is my best 3yo colt and of coursewon the recent Gr2 Selangor Cup at Kenilworth. He will be looking for Field Event in the Bloodstock SA Cape Guineas, and after that will run in the Gr1 Cape Derby.
3yo Fillies
Captain's Lover Captain Al - Sunshine Lover (Badger Land)
Her record speaks for itself. Her win in the Cape Fillies Guineas was a gutsy one and she did it the hard way from the widest draw of 12. I know Mike De Kock and Gilded Minaret will be eagerly waiting for us in the TBA Paddock Stakes so she will have to step up another gear before then.
Older Colts & Geldings
Trade Specialist Fort Wood - Make A Million (Last Tycoon)
This is a horse improving with age and he looks like a really smart stayer. He will be aimed at the Gr2 J&B Reserve Stayers Hcp on Met Day, and then the Gr1 Canon Gold Cup in August at Greyville.
Snow Drift Western Winter - Scented Royal (Royal Prerogative)
A horse I've rated for sometime and is now producing what I originally expected from him. He is well handicapped at present and one that could make it to the top.
Marcus Aurelius Saumarez - Lambarina (Dancing Champ)
This one just improves with age. He has been rested but be sure to follow him next year.

A regular series in which Ken Nicol speaks to trainers countrywide about themselves, and more importantly the horseflesh residing in their yards.

One of the more flamboyant menbers of our training ranks is Gautemg based Michael George Azzie.  The grandson of legendary George Azzie, dad Herbert was also in the business, and Michael was around horses virtually as soon as he was able to walk.
However, the young "Azzman" was never pushed into becoming a trainer, and it was only after both George and Herbert passed on in 1981 that he took out his licence. His rates his grandfather as the biggest influence on his development as a horseman, and he looked up to George as a larger than life figure.
Champion sprinter National Currency gave the Azzie outfit some great highlights in recent times, with his second to legendary Silent Witness in Hong Kong, and seven length win in Dubai springing readily to mind. He still has no hesitation in naming this one as the most talented he has had in a twenty six year career.
Sadly the champ also provided the lowest point of Michael's time in the business, as he died suddenly in Dubai from a mystery ailment. It took "a long time to get over", and even talking about it now, it became clear that this event still invoked strong emotions in Azzie, a man who has never been afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve.
And so to the horses...

Older Colts and Geldings
Dynamite Mike  Fard - Beyond The Call(Braashee)
A very nice 4yo, and already has the Gr2 KZN Guineas to his credit. Best over 16/1800m, but we are aiming him at the J&B Met, as Kenilworth is a relatively easy 2000, and he will have a handy galloping weight.
 
Silverpoint Woodman - Early Song(Precocious)
He was disappointing in the Summer Cup, when we expected a big run. He had a fetlock chip removed earlier in the year, and I still believe he has a big one in him. His ultimate mission will be the July next year.

Stratos Jet Master -  Gilded Star(Golden Thatch)
She has scored at Gr3 and Gr2 level in her last two starts, and is in the form of her life. Her next mission will be a Gr1 race at Kenilworth - either the Paddock Stakes or Majorca, with my slight preference being for the latter.

3yo Colts/Geldings

Jazz Giant Joshua Dancer - Magnificent Miss(Golden Thatch)
He finished a gallant second to Profit Report in the Falcon Sprint recently. He has been battling a persistent back problem which we will need to get to the bottom of before we see the best of him.

Farouche Fard - Wrecking Queen(Rakeen)
An above average sort who is coming back slowly following a virus. He could pick up a minor feature a t some stage.

3yo Fillies

Mochachino Silvano - Mabola Plum(Fort Wood)
Half sister to the very talented Mocha Java, who I also trained and who had no less than three Gr1 seconds. Effective over any trip up to a mile, and needed it slightly when third to Glenrossal recently in the Starting Stakes. She will take on the fillies’ features of the Autumn Gauteng season.

State Factor National Assembly - Corn Factor(Russian Fox)
She won the Gr2 Fillies Nursery as a juvenile, and has scored a brace of Gr1 thirds as well.  The type of filly who is always thereabouts, and can win a Gr1 for the Ruperts, something I would love to achieve.

A regular series in which Ken Nicol speaks to trainers countrywide about themselves, and more importantly the horseflesh residing in their yards.
Brett Crawford is among our more personable younger trainers, and has become a familiar face around our courses since taking over Sabine Plattner's string in the dark days of September 2001. Before that he paid his dues as assistant to Eric Sands(1993-7), and Dennis Drier (1997-2001), learning about differing training methods along the way.
Champion sprint filly Laisserfaire got Brett's career off to a flier as she won the Gr1 Cape Flying Championship only a few months after he became a fully-fledged conditioner. She still rates as the most talented to have passed through his care.
An ambition for any Cape based trainer is to win the J&B Met, and this was duly achieved in 2003when the talented Angus landed the spoils. This was another obvious standout moment in what has been a relatively successful path.
The yard operates from Rondeberg, an extremely well equipped private training facility on the Cape west coast. The aim is to win at least one Graded race per season, and up until now they have largely managed to achieve that target.
Married to Jill, Brett also shares his abode with children Cameron, Cody, James and Sarah. Not too many quiet moments then!
The Plattner operation hasn't enjoyed its most glittering year in 2007, but the wheel turns in this game. Being as professional and motivated as they are, 2008 is sure to be a different ball game altogether.

Older Colts and Geldings
We have a very young yard at the moment, and have retired all of our premier older males.

Older Fillies and Mares
Los Kop Doll Joshua Dancer - Barcelona Baby(Golden Thatch)
She was a bit disappointing in the Southern Cross last week, but had suffered a few setbacks in her preparation. She will have another run in a couple of weeks, and then have a crack at the Gr2 Sceptre Stakes over 1200m.

3yo Colts/Geldings

Clever Flight Strike Smartly - Gossamer Wings(Fairy King)
He won a strong looking maiden over 1200m on debut. He will have one more run up the straight this Saturday, but will stay at least a mile, and should develop into an exciting prospect.

Al Fresco Al Mufti - Dinayansi(Digression)
Also won his maiden over 1200m, but will go over ground. He has just been gelded, and looks a late maturing type who should really come to hand as a late 3yo.

Royal Raj Lizard Island - Mujari(Mujtahid)
He quickened eye-catchingly to win on debut down the straight. Slightly disappointing in subsequent efforts, and has now been gelded. One to watch for the future, and should develop into an above average type.

3yo Fillies

Nordic Moon Fanatic Dane - Last Moon(Last Tycoon)
She won two in succession once going beyond sprints, and failed by a whisker to complete the hat trick. A talented filly, who should pay to follow.

Joey Ramsden has been among our leading trainers for a few years now, and has a "pedigree" right up there with the best of them. Both his father and stepmother have trained successfully in the UK, while his sister was a champion amateur rider, and is married to Jamie Spencer, who has been UK champion flat jockey in the recent past.

Ramsden took out his license in 1996, after serving as assistant to Vaughn Marshall for a period. Since then many top thoroughbreds have passed through his yard, but dual Queens Plate winner, and horse of the year Winter Solstice remains the best horse he has trained.

Joey finally did the right thing by long serving fiance Fiona a while back, and the couple have a beautiful one your old daughter Holly who keeps them busy in the rare moments they are not involved in the racing world. Interestingly Fiona also comes from solid UK racing stock, as her parents' train there, and she herself has ridden winners.
Season after season the Ramsden yard scores over a century of winners from roughly the same amount of boxes, and with quite a number of promising 3yo's in residence at present, the immediate future looks a rather exciting prospect.  

Horses
Older Colts and Geldings
Lordship Captain Al - Double d'or(Elliodor)
Failed to get a mile in the Green Point Stakes last Saturday, but hopefully the handicapper hasn't fully got to grips with him yet. He should continue to win races.

Older Fillies
Our Table Mountain Fusaichi Pegasus - Hidden Light(Majestic Light)
She has a lovely pedigree, and already possesses black type after winning the listed Olympic Duel S in May. She should have a big race in her somewhere along the line, and after running in the Southern Cross on Tuesday she will participate in the Gr2 Sceptre over 1200m in mid December.
The Graceful Saint Saint Ballado - Sunday Wish(Sadler's Wells)
Another who is beautifully bred, and being bred to Northern Hemisphere time still has plenty improvement to come. Can win a decent race in time.
/p> 3yo Colts/Geldings

Captain's Knock Parade Leader - Caughtintheslips(Caesour)
I have high hopes for this one, particularly when he goes over ground. Ran second in an incredibly strong Graduation Plate on Tuesday, and should compete in the 3yo features this summer.
Ivory Trail Badger's Drift - Hunter's Glen(Complete Warrior)
Won the Gr3 Langerman off a low weight, and looks a decent type. Will continue to improve.
LostintranslationMuhtafal - Snooty Lady(Northern Guest)
Very encouraging latest, when second to the well-weighted Blue Tiger in the Cape Classic. Improving nicely, and should develop into a very decent miler.
Express Saumarez - Matchless Maiden(Argosy)
Won easily on debut, and followed up with a respectable 2nd to the very useful Russian Sage. Too early to gauge his true potential, but he clearly has plenty of ability.
Romaunt Lecture - Laughing Melody(Comedy Star)
Only has three runs behind him, and won well at the second attempt. Disappointing latest following a rest, but has decent ability and will win his races.
Ufredo Roy - Uralis(Equalize)
South American import, and was an impressive recent maiden winner. Runs in a competitive looking handicap on Saturday and should develop into a well above average type.

3yo Fillies

Nania Western Winter - Nacarat(Pas De Quoi)
A special filly, and already a Gr1 winner after taking the Thekwini at Clairwood in July. Runs in the Fillies Guineas this Saturday, and all going well will go on to the Paddock S and Fancourt Majorca.
Ice Express Western Winter - Trojan Belle(Centenary)
Another "special one", and better than her latest when well beaten in the Odessa. Will follow an identical path to Nania.
Galaxy Gal Encosta De Lago - Hide My Grades(Honor Grades)
She has disappointed a couple of times, but produced something more like her true ability when just touched off last Saturday. Worth keeping faith in, and should develop into an extremely useful filly. 

This week we feature an Eastern Cape conditioner for the first time, with Alan Greeff being the "lucky" recipient. With father Stanley a legend of the training ranks, it wasn't surprising that Alan got involved in the family business, and he still rates his dad as the biggest influence on his career. 

PE racing in recent times has been dominated by the rivalry between Greeff and Gavin Smith, but Alan has also scored a couple of Gr1 wins in KZN, as Cereus and Silver Arc brought home the Gold Cup and Allan Robertson respectively a few years back.  Another career highlight was when Tatler landed the Equus award for 3 year old sprinting Filly of 2002.

Away from racing Alan enjoys visiting game farms when he gets time off, as well as that perennial SA staple, the family braai. There are currently roughly 90 horses residing in the Greeff yard, and they look sure to enjoy yet another successful season.

What A Jet Jet Master - Magic Coast(Coastal)
Something of a prodigal son, as he won his first two starts for me as a 2yo and has now returned after being with a few other trainers. Has won three of five since then, and will continue to compete in local sprint features in the near future.

TaxareLondon News - Tastevin(Sportsworld)
Arrived in PE as a maiden, but then reeled off a hat trick of wins in quick succession. An above average handicapper who has used front running tactics to good effect.

Red SealSaumarez - Fine Year(Centenary)
A very genuine type, who still seems to be improving as a 4yo. If she carries on in this vein she is sure to add a few more to her tally of 3 wins.

3yo Colts/Geldings
Beldale Flag Classic Flag - Beldale Courier(Beldale Lustre)
Won impressively over 1300m following gelding, but then disappointed in the Racing Assoc. S. Well above average, and his long term mission will be the EP Guineas.

Copper TraderLecture - Copper Horizon(Al Mufti)
A similar type of horse to Ziplock, and will probably be best up to 1400m. Ran on nicely following a rest a couple of weeks ago, and has a lot more to come.

Matinee IdolWindrush - Diva(Trigger Finger)
This horse will continue to improve, and his ultimate aim will be the East Cape Derby next autumn. He won on the only occasion he went beyond a mile so far, and should develop into a very decent stayer.

3yo Fillies
Angels In Art Counter Action - City Heights(Raga Navarro)
She has won 3 of 4 so far, and should continue to improve. Can pick up a feature race along the way.

Energy In Red Model Man - Yve's Opium(Complete Warrior)
Won her 2nd start over 1000m, but should stay at least a mile. Definitely on the upgrade, and another who will pay to follow.

Being the son of legendary trainer Peter "PK" Kannemeyer, Dean was around racing stables almost as soon as he could walk.  He rode work for his father and other trainers from an early age, and participated in many Cape Hunt events over the years, winning at the first time of asking over 1800m.
Dean also considered becoming a jockey, like his father before him, but it became apparent early on that he would struggle weight wise.  
After a protracted "apprenticeship" as assistant to PK (1980-99), Dean set off under his own steam. He has hardly looked back since, notching an impressive 20 Gr1 wins in the process. The biggest single contributor was the champion Free My Heart(with seven), and Dean rates this one alongside Dynasty as the best he has had(so far).
The Kannemeyer outfit had a rather flat 2006/7 by their own lofty standards. But the wheel turns, and they currently have a team of 3yo colts that must be the envy of trainers across the land. This should be no surprise, as t Dynasty, Rabiya and Eye Of The Tiger have all walked off with this Equus award inside the last five years. Roll on the Cape season!
Older Colts and Geldings
Jagged Ice Western Winter - Annie(Trigger Finger)
He finished 2nd in the KZN Derby and Daily News 2200 as a 3yo, and 3rd in the July this year. Will have his day in the sun, and is our Met horse for next year. Ran on nicely in the Merchants last Saturday, and will defend his Green Point S title before going on to the Queen's Plate and Met.
Wonder Lawn Fort Wood - Velvet Green(Roy)
He finished a good 2nd in his 1st run following gelding, and still has a lot of potential.
He ran in a strong Allowance plate on Tuesday.
Woodgrove Fort Wood - Capture The Wind(Al Mufti)
We hoped he would be our July horse last year, but he fell victim to a tendon strain. He is now back in work, and may return towards the end of the Cape season, or more likely in KZN next winter. 
Older Fillies and Mares
Clandestine Fort Wood - Blake's Affair(Commodore Blake)
A good staying filly, and being a full sister to Dynasty has plenty of stud value. Given an extremely harsh MR for running second to River Jetez in the KZN Oaks, and difficult to find races for her right now.
3yo Colts/Geldings
Al Pasha Al Mufti - Fov's Flower(Foveros)
A nice staying horse who won his maiden by 5 lengths when tried over ground. He has lots of scope and will continue to improve.
Anchor Ice Western Winter - Travel I n Front(Citidancer)
Won his maiden impressively at Greyville, and was fresh off the farm when making all at Durbanville a few weeks ago. He is related to Long Dollar and Bound To Travel, but appears to be a sprint/miler and will be aimed at the Cape Guineas. His next appearance is in the Cape Classic over 1400m this Saturday. 
Dog Star Roy - Defensiva(Confidential Talk)
A big rangy type who will need time to furnish into his frame. All going well he will run in the Cape Derby, but this smart colt will be at his best as a late 3yo in next year's KZN campaign.    
First Honour Fort Wood - Secret Honour(Secret Prospector)
He has won his last two very impressively from bad draws, despite ducking severely from shadows and almost unseating Karl Neisius when winning his maiden. This is a Guineas horse.  
Galaxy Ghadeer - Night-Fall(Roi Normand)
Imported Brazilian half brother to Express Way, who has won his last two in good style and is on the up. He should stay 2000, but will next run in the Selangor, and then if that goes well on to the Guineas.  
Sun WarriorGoldkeeper - Dolce Vita(Sportsworld)
A smart stayer in the making who has won both starts since gelding.  He showed a lot of guts to win his post-maiden race, and has plenty of scope.  
Tan Can Silvano - Tanover(Model Man)
A very smart horse, whose main mission for this summer will be the Cape Derby. Another who will be at his best as a late 3yo in Durban next winter.  He ran in a MR 91 over 1800mat Kenilworth on Tuesday.
 3yo Fillies
Rose Lipped Maiden Fort Wood - Lady Blakeney(Northfields)
She has plenty of potential, and both of her wins have come in impressive style. Needs to learn to settle in her races, but can win a decent race later on.

Nikolaki Nikolaki Houdalakis only took out his trainers license just over a year ago, after a long career in the saddle. Known as "Lucky" to one and all, he must have questioned the accuracy of that label given the circumstances in which the riding chapter of his life came to a sudden end in 2001.
"I was just about to canter down to the start when the filly in front of me stopped abruptly, forcing my horse to run up its rear. She then lashed out with a double barreled kick and caught me full on my left leg (while still mounted). The result was a compound fracture to my left tibia, and after an extensive 3 year rehabilitation process, I lost the battle and was grounded permanently", in his own words.
Lucky names wife Natalie as the biggest influence on his career, and indeed she handles the admin. side of the business. It was she and father-in-law Trevor Lange who encouraged him to join the training ranks, something he had never contemplated before.
Good friend Glen Kotzen gave a lot of free advice in the early days, and since leasing 40 boxes from him, Lucky has discovered what a "brilliant horseman" James Maree is. Others like Joe Soma, Colin Scott and Mike De Kock were also on hand with useful tips and suggestions.
Lucky started off with only 6 horses (he now has 45, 30 of whom are unraced), but knew he was on his way when Man's Mood won a couple of weeks after he became a licensed trainer. A first Stakes win was also not long in coming, as the then 2yo filly Supper Club came with a storming late run to win the Gr2 Debutante at Greyville in June.
As we all know this can be a cruel game. Lucky "cried like a baby and almost turned it up right there and then" when Big Gambler, the pride and joy of his stable reared over backwards and died the day before he was due to make his debut last November. But things are a lot rosier now, and if enthusiasm is anything to go by, he should have a long and prosperous career.

Older Colts and Geldings
Man's Mood Among Men - Jean Machine(Northern Guest)
This one will always have a soft spot in my heart, as he opened my winning account as a trainer. Has won another two for me since, and is a reasonable handicapper over ground. Will win a couple more.
Ultra Consistent Al Mufti - Ellen's Isle(Elliodor)
He has started to live up to his name since being tried on sand, only missing the money once in his last 8. Three wins on the surface, and there should be more to come.
Sydney's Boy Fard - Amber's Beauty(Golden Thatch)
Another decent handicapper, who is better than his recent record suggests. He should win more races, being only a two-time winner at present.
3yo Colts/Geldings
JJ The Jet Plane Jet Master - Majestic Guest(Northern Guest)
My best three year old colt. He hacked up on debut after we had a good bet, and won the Graham Beck last Saturday in even more impressive fashion. He will now go on to the Dingaan's, and if that goes well we will consider taking on the Cape Guineas.
Magnetic Storm London News - Tropical Diamond(Red Ryder)
He won his 1st start, showing plenty of pace. Very disappointing second start, and I am uncertain at the moment whether he stays beyond sprints. He was scratched from the Graham Beck last Saturday, so that question remains unanswered.
3yo Fillies
Supper Club Manshood - Feast Royal(Al Mufti)
Not fashionably bred, and only cost R25K, but she did me proud by winning the Gr2 Debutante at only her fifth start. She ran in the Starling Stakes last weekend, and will take her place in the Steinhoff Fillies Mile on Summer Cup Day. She should stay 2000 and has a bright future.
Stefani Muhtafal - Really Rich(Only A Pound)
Ran a good 2nd on debut, and we are hopeful he will develop into a decent sprinter.

Sean Tarry is one of SA's most recognisable young trainers, and of course has enjoyed substantial success in recent times. The exploits of National Colour and Mythical Flight readily spring to mind, but this is a stable with admirable depth, as will become obvious from the body of this article.
Brother Mark is also a key component of the team, being a proven expert on pedigrees. He provides vital analysis on any yearlings that the stable may have an interest in. An owner when Sean took out his licence in 1997, Mark was also the yard's 1st major client, with approximately fifteen horses. Of course nowadays Chris Van Niekerk fills that role extremely ably.  
Champion trainer Mike De Kock was an influence in the early days, as Sean noted the way he brought his top horses through and didn't overrace them. Now of course he can count the globetrotting conditioner (and budding Tiger Woods!) as a personal friend.
An early highlight came when Alastor was a shock winner of the J&B Met in 2005, giving the team their maiden Gr1 win. Since then of course there have been many more, with National Colour completing a hat trick of such triumphs before winning on debut in Dubai, and Mythical Flight adding another two to the stockpile.
A significant "downer" was when Fort Beluga reared as the gates opened and lost over twenty lengths in the Cape Guineas of 2005, spoiling a much anticipated match race with eventual winner Express Way. However all in all the Tarry outfit seem to be on an upward trajectory, and can anticipate an exciting future. 

Horses
Older Colts and Geldings
Fort Beluga Fort Wood - Langoustine(Northern Guest)
The best horse I have trained in terms of pure ability. His poor latest in Gauteng should be ignored, as he is a huge specimen, and was short of work due to wet tracks. He will run in the November Handicap, and if things go well, on to the Queen's Plate.  
Mythical Flight Jet Master - Mythical Bird(Harry Hotspur)
He returned with a breathing problem following a disappointing latest in the Mercury Sprint. He will participate in the two WFA sprints early next year (The Cape Flying Championship, and Computaform Sprint).
Successful Bidder Jallad - Loyal Linda(Averof)
An unlucky loser in the July, as he had to switch at a crucial stage, and was finishing at least as well as anything else. He will go for the Queen's Plate and Met next, same as last year.
Buy And Sell National Emblem - Trade Enquiry(Qui Danzig)
He was given an extremely high MR for winning a sub standard Daily News 2200, but still ran a storming second in the July. He has come on since then, and will also participate in the Queen's Plate and Met.
Bound By Honour Rambo Dancer - Child Of Grace(Only A Pound)
An above average staying type. His next outing will be in the Victory Moon Handicap at Turffontein, and hopefully he will qualify for the Summer Cup.
Fork Lightening Rambo Dancer - Dancing Firelight(Del Sarto)
Needed his latest in the Hyperion won by Biarritz. He will go the same route of Victory Moon and Summer Cup.
Apple-A-Day Modern Day - Applemania(Jungle Rock)
His prep has been rather rushed following some time off after the Canon Gold Cup. He will next appear in the Victory Moon, and then the Summer Cup.
Older Fillies
National Colour National Assembly - Rainbow Cake(Mr Eats)
She won her first start in Dubai well, before disappointing in the Golden Shaheen, albeit with valid excuses. She will be aimed at the King's Stand Stakes on turf at Royal Ascot next June.
Angel Flight Fahal - Flying Mary(Aeropasser)
She ha d a fetlock chip removed after finishing 2nd to Bold Ellinore in the Garden Province on July day. She will be back next year either in the Gauteng Autumn season, or later in KZN.
Ethereal Lady Model Man - Amber Gem(Argosy)
She won the Gr1 SA Fillies Sprint at Scottsville in May. Her next outing will be the Gr2 Merchants on Summer Cup day, and then on to the Cape to have a crack at the Sceptre and Majorca S.

3yo Fillies
Nimley Jet Master - Nimiety(Al Mufti)
She won well over 1000m at her 1st start, but being out of a full sister to Alastor should get much further. She will next be seen out in the Starling Stakes, and then the Steinhoff Fillies Mile on Summer Cup day.
Lady Bequick National Assembly - Outstanding Star(Bletchingly)
Half sister to Kapil, and she also cruised in on debut. She missed the break in the Golfields Sprint, but stayed on well enough into fifth. Her next run will be in the Starling S to see if she gets more ground, and we will take it from there.

We move to Gauteng this week, and feature Gary Mark Alexander. Born with racing in his blood, Gary took out his trainers' licence as far back as 1982. Father Duncan was a top jockey in his day, winning both the Met and Summer Cup on two occasions, and Gary unsurprisingly rates his dad as the primary influence on his career.
The yard is still very much a family concern, as brother Dean has taken care of the administration and business management side since 1992, and sister Julie still helps out when she can, despite heavy commitments keeping up the glamour quotient on Tellytrack (apologies to Cecil and Molly!)
Many a top horse has passed through the yard over the years. Kick The Habit and Naval Guest stood out in the early days, while Tommy Hotspur must have been one of the fastest sprinters ever seen in this country.
In more recent times Drum Star and Silver Sliver won at Gr1 level, and Icy Air lived up to her name by ascending to rarefied heights. Superstar sprint filly Ruby Clipper still holds more than one course record around the country and has also started her stud career with a bang(no pun intended), as she is the dam of extremely promising Seventh Rock.
A particularly highlight was the inaugural Champions' Day at Turffontein in 2000, when both Drum Star (Champion S)and Silver Sliver(SA Derby) landed Gr1 spoils, and staying filly Lady Of The Turf took home the Gr2 Gold Bowl.
All in all the Alexander brothers feel they have been blessed with good fortune in their racing, and don't like to dwell on any bad times they may have gone through. And so to the horses...

Older Fillies
Spring Garland Rambo Dancer - Garden Verse(Foveros)
Ran a cracking third to Soft Landing in the recent Renounce S, and will be tried in a few of the fillies features over ground in the Gauteng season.

3yo Colts/Geldings
Nomafashini Fard - In Style(Model Man)
He won his second start comfortably, and will next be seen in the inaugural Emperor's Palace Ready To Run Sweepstakes on 3 November (Note - a race for graduates of last year's "Ready To Run Sale"). He should continue to improve.
Gymnast Russian Revival - Summersault(Northern Guest)
Won at the third attempt following a brace of seconds. Yet to go over the right trip, as he is looking for at least a mile. Will next be seen in the "Ready To Run".

3yo Fillies
We have a couple of unraced fillies we rate, and they will be appearing sometime in the near future.

Who better to open the account than Mike Bass, the doyen of Cape conditioners, and fresh from the most successful season of his long career. Mike looks forward to the forthcoming Cape feature campaign with justifiable confidence, and tells us about his leading contenders and their current state of readiness.
With his daughter and stable assistant Candice Robinson due to provide a grandchild within the next week, Mike and his wife Carol could hardly be blamed for being distracted at present. However, like the truly professional operation they are, a most informative synopsis was forthcoming.
Overall he seems to have the impression that he has more depth and quality among his colts at present, but only time and racing will tell. The game we all love after all is nothing if not unpredictable.
This time last year not too many foresaw Pocket Power completing the Queens Plate/Met double, and who's to say the reigning 'Horse Of The Year' won't have a double double in his 'pocket'(groan) come early February.
Mike looks forward to the forthcoming Cape feature campaign with justifiable confidence, and tells us about his leading contenders and their current state of readiness.

Older Colts and Geldings
Pocket Power Jet Master - Stormsvlei (Prince Florimund)
After a somewhat plagued Durban season for SA's Horse Of The Year. Pocket Power fans will be pleased to know that he appears to be back to his best delivering some top notch work at home and we are all very excited with his forthcoming Cape campaign. The break since his return has done him very well and he seems to be free of his foot troubles for the time being. Pocket Power will be aiming to repeat his last season triumphs in the Queens Plate and J&B Metropolitan again.
Floatyourboat Jet Master - Foverington (Foveros (GB))
Investec Derby winner Floatyourboat, returning to the track after two knee surgeries, will place his bid this season where we will be aiming him for the Queens Plate and J&B Met. We are very happy with his work and we were pleased with his last 2 races, although not finishing in the money the Jock's reported that he was traveling very well to a point before tiring as his fitness levels are nowhere near to where they should be. The light tracks at home have made it difficult to get him fit, but we feel as the tracks dry up we will be able to get a lot more work into him. He is a horse that takes an immense amount of work and we will start to step it up now as his previous injuries do not seem to be hampering him at all at the moment.
Hilgrove Casey Tibbs (IRE) - Leap To Fame (Truely Nureyev(USA))
Premier S winner Hilgrove has returned from a rest on the farm after his Durban campaign where he found a few too good in the Durban July and Gold Challenge. The handicapper appears to have him at their mercy at present but if we get him back to his best he may be able to pick up another feature this season. He will again be aimed at races like the Premiers Trophy and the likes there of.
Bill Of Rights Saumarez - Fine Series (Fine Edge (GB))
A surprise package since entering the yard, he sustained a career threatening injury as a yearling but has since blossomed into a very handy stayer, picking up the grade 3 Winter Derby late last season. He is very consistent in his work at home and we will be steering him down a similar road to Hilgrove and he if can show his worth along the way we hope to qualify him for the J&B Met in February.
Naughty Prince Casey Tibbs (IRE) - Naughty Princess (Devilish Ninja (USA))
A consistent son of Casey Tibbs. He took some time to mature and strengthen up but has since furnished into a lovely Horse. He picked up a group three status in the Winter Classic over 1800m and his close up second to State Crown in the Winter Guineas to clinch the overall Winter Series proves he is no slouch. He will be aimed at the premiers trophy and the Peninsula Handicap this season.
Dunford Shalford (IRE) - Pelican Brief (Piaffer (USA))
A small fellow with a Lion heart who always tries his best. He is getting along now but with age seems to relish the ground. We cant ask too much from him as he has done it all already, But we would not be surprised to see him romp home a another small feature this season if all things go his way.
Global One Nureyev (USA) - Fifth Award (USA) (Houston (USA))
One of Nureyev's last progenies to grace the track. Owned by the Tawny Syndicate, Global One is a 4 time winning Australian import who has recently joined our yard to see out the remainder of his racing career before standing at Stud. Impeccably bred, he is a beautiful specimen to look at and although already 6 years of age, his powerful work at home may make him a force to be reckoned with in the sprints this year.
Older Fillies
Zooming Zellie King Of Kings (USA) - Bezelle (GB) (Dominion (GB))
Out of a Gr1 winning mare , she is possibly our best filly in training at present. She had an extremely unlucky Durban season with poor health when she arrived causing her to miss the SA fillies sprint and some very bad luck in the running. She is very well at present and we will be concentrating her over the sprint distances, particularly the Merchants as well as all the fillies sprints. Her maximum distance would probably be the 1400m and we hope she is able to pick up a group 1 this season.
River Jetez Jet Master - Stormsvlei (Prince Florimund)
As you know a full sister to Pocket Power. She picked up 2 feature races in Durban last season, the Gr 3 Umzimkhulu s over 1400m and the Gr2 Gold Circle Oaks over 2400m. Like her brother she is a versatile sort but as she has matured she appears to relish the ground. We hope to have her at her peak come the Paddock S in January.
Cymbeline Counter Action - Ratafia (Flaming Rock (IRE))
A big, strong good looking daughter of stable trained champion Counter Action. From 12 starts she has only finished out of the placing's on 1 occasion being her debut start. Already a small black type winner of the Winter Oaks, we hope to pick up some graded features with her this season with her main aim being the Paddock S. She's very well at present.
3yo Colts
Blue Tiger Counter Action - Manuka (Rainbow Dream (FR))
Very highly rated in the Bass stable and one whom we think will be a huge contender for feature races this season. Probably our best candidate along with Air Combat to stake their claim on the Guineas this year. We have been very happy with his races to date and perhaps a little unlucky not to have picked up one or two features already. Definitely one to watch out for in the future.
Air Combat Jet Master - Shoot The Booze (All Fired Up (USA) )
As mentioned, along with Blue Tiger he should be a big runner in the Guineas this season. Only met the track once in Durban where he set a new class record on Debut. Being a Jet Master, predictably we have taken our time with him as his temperament is a little on the nervous side and we feel with time he will be a very exciting prospect in our yard. The reports on his work at home have been excellent.
Field Event Western Winter (USA) - Field Princess (Northfields (USA))
Tall good looking son of Western Winter who has recently joined our yard from Neil Bruss who now resides in England. Not yet raced on Cape soil, his record speaks for itself. After winning on debut his next two starts in the Gr2 Umkhomazi and the Gr 1 Golden Horseshoe over 1400m he finished 5th and 4th respectively. We feel he is looking for a lot more ground now and his main mission this season will be the Derby over 2000m on Met day.
Road To Reason Joshua Dancer (USA) - Treasure Teft (Goldmark)
Joshua Dancers have already made an impact in the Cape this season and Road To Reason has been no exception. He is from the direct family of Perfect Order and Counter Action. Home bred by Owner’s Mr Deon Nel and Lukas Theron he has begun his early career well with two wins after his debut performance, both over sprint distances. We feel he will definitely need more ground as he matures and we hope he will be a lively contender in a few of the smaller features this season.
Gold Man Goldkeeper (USA) - Love Of Eros ( Foveros (GB))
Won his maiden sprint with ease after being left in the pens at the start. He is a late maturing colt that will need much more ground later on. Although early to tell at this stage his work at home is nothing short of impressive and if he continues to improve like he has been we must include him as an impending feature race nominee.
3yo Fillies
Aquatint Peintre Celebre (USA) - Sakieh (IRE) (Green Desert (USA))
A very well bred and talented Filly who puts up phenomenal work at home. She has yet to break her maiden, but we feel with time she will grow into herself nicely and we will direct her towards a few fillies features this year.
Journal Saumarez (GB) - Classique Story (Elliodor (FR))
Won impressively on debut, but since then has not quite run to expectations; however she is still lightly raced and shows a fair bit of potential. Being by Saumarez she will probably look for further and we hope she could prove to be a contender for a few fillies features this season.
Sing Dixie Sing Western Winter (USA) - Whistling Dixie (Raise A Man (USA))
A very strong well bred Filly out of the speedy mare Whistling Dixie. She won on debut but we are not quite sure as to what her preferred distance will be. She shows potential at home and we feel she could be a prospective candidate to line up in a few fillies features. Time should tell the tale with her.
Una Invitata Confidential Talk (USA) - Verdadeira ( Haras Basano)
A very recent Brazilian import to come into the yard. Her sister was the Champion Triple Crown winner Colina Verde who was the first filly to win the Triple Crown in Brazil since her own third dam Emerald Hill pulled off the trick 29 years earlier. Too soon to tell but she is very well conformed and we would obviously be delighted if she could follow up the talent of her Great Sister.
Via Della National Assembly (CAN) - Doradella (Elliodor (FR))
A well bred rangy Filly from the family of Doradella. A win and 3 places from four starts to date. Still very early to tell but shows fair ability at this stage, as she matures she will need further and we feel she will be a candidate for the Fillies features.