Weekend runner comments

Betway Ambassador Mike de Kock saddles his 2024 Durban July hopeful, Dave The King, in a Pinnacle Stakes over 1500m at Scottsville on Sunday. Dave The King’s versatility and hard galloping action has made him competitive in major races, but he has only managed three wins so far. At MR126 he is the highest-rated three-time winner in the country, favoured by the conditions of the Pinnacle Stakes and probably best suited to this unusual distance.

Mike said: “Dave The King had quite a tough autumn campaign in Gauteng, but he has enjoyed a short rest. He is doing fine and he’s in a good space. He has freshened up nicely and should run a good race, has a chance. Our other runner Shoemaker also comes off a rest. He came along steadily in autumn and won a race in March, but we had issues after that win which has set him back. He will need the run back.”

Mike will also send out four runners on the standside track at Turffontein. He said:

Race 1, 1400m: “As noted last time, we were disappointed in Inqwele’s first run, and expected him to improve in his second run, which he did. He’s come on from that, working well and is crying for the extra ground. This is his peak run, he should be involved in the finish.”

Race 5, 1400m: “Festival Magic was extremely disappointing in his last run in January, we liked him a bit that day but he trailed in way behind. There was an excuse as he pulled up with an issue and has had to have a bit of a rest since. He’s a very capable horse, but needs to find his form. On his work at home, he is not too far off it. Our newcomer Top Seed is a nice colt by Legislate. He is showing us some good work and if he’s not too green he will be right there on his debut.”

Race 7, 2450m: “Mambo Come Tesio enjoys this course and distance. I think he was just a bit unlucky in the race won by Weather Wizard two weeks ago. He was not in a good position early and cast a shoe during the running of the race. With a bit more luck and a better early position he should go close again.”