Runner comments, Greyville/Turffontein

Betway Ambassador Mike de Kock has one runner at Greyville on Saturday and eight going to post at Turffontein on Sunday.,

Safe Passage will contest the Greyville 1900. He has not been near his best form in recent runs but, as Mike suggested before the recent Colorado King Stakes, there are glimpses of a return to his old self. He said: “Safe Passage is capable as we know, but very erratic. There were encouraging signs last time, he stayed on behind New Predator and he is dropping in the ratings. He has to be included in exotic perms. He has run some good races at Greyville.”

He gave his views on the Turffontein runners:

Race 1, 1600m: “This is a quick back-up for Oxalis Gold, but she is very well, she took her last race in her stride and she’s been looking for this distance. We’ll take our chances, this is a race for her and she has a big chance.”

Race 2, 1600m: “Sicily has been disappointing so far, he’s turned in three poor efforts. We thought he’d run a good race last week and he ran downfield again though he did get bumped at the start. We’re trying 1600m and hoping for better.”

Race 4, 1600m: “Forever Mine is stretched over a mile, his best form is over shorter but he has a handy weight, Richard Fourie up and a good draw. His work is good and he has a Quartet chance. Mujbar’s UK form was really good. He hasn’t put things together here just yet, but he shows ability in his home gallops and I’m expecting an improved run from him.”

Race 5, 1800m: “Kadizora is a capable filly, this is a touch short for her but she’s another showing good work and warrants consideration. Include her in exotics.”

Race 7, 1450m: “The Secretariat Stakes won’t be easy to win for Platina Princess against the colts and she’s drawn worst of all. But she’s effective over this course and distance so has to be included in the Quartet.”

Race 8: “Good Queen Bess is also backed up quickly after her fourth place last week, but she, too, is in good shape, She raced too handy last week, we’ll try different tactics. She’s very useful on her day and is one you can’t ignore. Woman Of Power has been good at sprinting and she runs on well. There were excuses for her poor run when she was tried over 1400m. Her pedigree suggests that she’ll see out this trip and if she does, she’ll be in the shake-up. I’d include her.”