SEVERAL members of Mathew de Kock’s Onamission Syndicate came to the Vaal
on Thursday for what turned out to be a trip well worthwhile.

Elbi (Randall Simons), a Moutonshoek-bred filly by Philanthropist, scored at only her second attempt, winning a Maiden Juvenile Plate for fillies over 1200m with some authority, as she wasn’t vigorously ridden even though the winning margin was just 0.40-lengths.

Elbi.

Mike de Kock commented: “Elbi has improved a lot since her debut, she’s a nice filly and she will win again, I think the form of this race will prove to be strong.”

Mathew de Kock was happy to have a good turnout of syndicate members, who include individuals from around the world. “After the race I received text messages from the US, Australia, the UK, Dubai and Mauritius, it’s a truly international band of owners.”

Enthusiastic syndicate member Greg Gomes, who seldom misses a race with an Onamission runner, commented: “Just a year-and-a-half ago I had no interest in horseracing, now I’ve had three wins with Puget Sound and one with Elbi, I’m loving it.”

Hurricane Lass.

Mike remarked last week that the string is well for this time of winter and that also applied to Grey’s Inn’s daughter Hurricane Lass (Simons). She broke her Maiden over 1200m for owner Weichong Marwing, who attended the meeting.

Hurricane Lass showed pace on the grandstand rail and never looked threatened, she won well and can pick up another race in time.

Another sure to win again is What A Captain (What A Winter), who shed his Maiden ticket in a 1000m dash at the Vaal, Tuesday. He’s still learning to race – Simons had to tap him occasionally to keep him running straight and focused – but he won smartly and won’t be long in earning more stakes.

What A Captain races for Mike de Kock, George Ragunan and partners.

What A Captain.