MATHEW de Kock discusses the chances of the stables runners on Classic Day at Turffontein:
SA CLASSIC:
“Alexandra Palace has improved from his last start. This is a better distance, he has good draw and should finish closer to them. I feel Emerald Approach is a changed horse from his last start. His work is a lot better and I wouldn’t leave him out of anything. If he puts his best foot forward he’s a big runner.”
SA FILLIES CLASSIC
“Al Kindi is doing very well. This time we’ve got a good draw so we can keep her closer to the leaders and I think we will finish on top of them. She came from last to finish sixth in the Fillies Guineas.”
Link Man can surprise if in the mood on Saturday.
HORSE CHESTNUT STAKES
“We’ve jumped Link Man at home and he flies out the gate. I’m not too concerned if he does start slowly because he will come from behind. He likes to run fresh and we’ve not done a whole lot with him. Galileo’s Destiny is doing well. He will be 100% fit on Saturday and I think the 1600m will suit him. Mujaarib was very underdone for his last start so he’s come on, hopefully more than Slumdogmillionaire. Silver Flyer is doing very nicely. He had a good prep run will be at his peak on Saturday. Amur Affair is flying! She’s doing very well. This is a big test for her on the day but she gets a 2.5kg sex allowance and I think she can run a big race.”
JACARANDA HANDICAP:
“Bluroute ran a good race last time and if she stays 1800m I’m confident of a big run. Checcetti is doing well at home. No real fireworks but her rating has dropped so I think she will be competitive.”
PRETTY POLLY STAKES:
“Maynoona caught us by surprise last time. She shows little at home but she won. We still feel 1100m is too short for her but this race will give us an idea of how good she is and where to go with her.”
PROTEA STAKES
“Duly Ordained is a very nice individual but wants ground. We also want to see how good he is.”
CARADOC GOLD CUP:
“Canterbury Tale is out at the weights with Seal but I think the 2850m will be in our favour.
RACE 11:
“Global Power is in with a very big chance in his first race over 1600m. He needs the extra ground.”
