R1 075 000 will be up grabs for a 100% clean sheet in the Hollywoodbets Punters’ Challenge at Hollywoodbets Scottsville on Sunday when the Listed Michael Roberts Handicap heads a tricky nine-race card programme.
Guest of honour – albeit behind closed doors – will be riding legend Michael ‘Muis’ Roberts who is honoured annually on this day.
Did you read his interview this week?
A field of ten lines up in the 1750m feature, and includes rather optimistic Cape Town Met entry Baby Shooz, who finished 0,05 lengths behind Shane Humby’s Mr Fitz last time. He is 0,5kgs better off at the weights and there should not be much separating the pair in the run down to the wire.
Mr Fitz ran a good race when finishing second in the Listed Christmas Handicap last time. He has won twice and finished second twice from six starts on this course. He jumps from a good draw and merits healthy respect as a fit contender.
Consistent Blackball is a big runner in the feature (Pic -Candiese Lenferna)
One of a pair of Gavin van Zyl contenders, the 6yo Blackball ran fourth in this race last year behind GG’s Dynasty and was ultra-impressive when winning his last start over 2200m at Hollywoodbets Greyville.
He caught the eye in the style that he drew off at the finish and comes in fit. Blackball has won three times and finished second once from six starts on this course. He has a good record under ‘super sub’ Raymond Danielson and should take a power of beating.
The rejuvenated Trip To Africa will be ridden by ‘Tubs’ Gumeded and comes in off two victories over a mile on the polytrack. He faces his toughest test to date, but has found a new lease on life and can notch up the hat-trick.
That said, he is unlikely to have his own way in front and it could be a fascinating tactical contest.
A reminder that the Hollywoodbets Punters’ Challenge closes at 12h05 – that’s 5 minutes before the off of the first -don’t miss out on your free entry!
