Turffontein runners on 27 April

Betway Ambassador Mike de Kock sent out four winners this past week – and with the stable in good form he is hoping that Safe Passage can run a race somewhere near his best in the Grade 2 Colorado King Stakes over 2000m at Turffontein.

He said: “Safe Passage has had erratic form since his foot injury incurred before the Met in 2023. He has been racing below his best since, except for a big effort in the 2023 Summer Cup. He hasn’t lost his ability, he is definitely capable and he’s in a good space. We’re hoping he brings his best to the racetrack, he must be included. There was a glimmer of hope in his last start.

“Aragosta is also doing very well and it’s his third run after a rest, he should run another good race but it’s not an easy field to assess as the class act Puerto Manzano seems off form and I’m not sure how the three-year-olds will go. Pure Predator looks in good nick. A small field, but as open as they come.”

Mike has more runners on the day:

The ultra consistent White Pearl takes on the likes of Mrs Geriatrix and Time Fo Orchids in the Grade 2 Camellia Stakes over 1160m, and on her excellent run to One Fell Swoop over this trip in March, she has a chance.

Mike commented: “White Pearl has been fit for a while now, she’s had four runs this year. I gave her a little time in the paddock, she’s honest and fresh. She may have her work cut out against Mrs Geriatrix, who is back over what could be her best trip, and Time Fo Orchids, who is very fast and in form. But our filly is well, hoping she can give them some opposition.”

The stable has three runners in Race 10 over 1400m, including the so far disappointing import Mujbar.

Mike said: “Mujbar left me scratching my head last time. He is much better than that, his penultimate start was a good run after a long rest. It could be a case of whether he still has a desire to run. He is an older entire now, perhaps there are other things on his mind. But let’s see, we’re expecting better.

“Forever Mine has stayed at MR109 for his last seven runs which is just mind-boggling. He is doing well in his work and a place is not inconceivable. He is showing signs of returning to form.

“Zinovi is doing really well, he was impressive when winning last time and is a horse well on the up. There’s not a lot of horses in good form here, so he must have a big chance.”