Odds-on favorite ONE STRIPE delivered on expectations with an authoritative victory in the Grade 2 Cape Punters Cup over 1600m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday. Despite the smooth result, it wasn’t entirely straightforward, as he had to reel in stablemate ALL OUT FOR SIX, who surged to an early lead. However, when Gavin Lerena urged the One World colt into action, he unleashed an electric turn of foot, taking command in the final 100m to win by an emphatic 1.75 lengths.
“He has phenomenal acceleration,” said an impressed Lerena. Trainer Vaughan Marshall echoed the sentiment, praising the colt’s “incredible finishing speed.” ONE STRIPE’s closing 400m was clocked at a dazzling 23 seconds, a stark contrast to ALL OUT FOR SIX, who finished the stretch in 24.4 seconds.
With this victory, ONE STRIPE has now notched four wins from six starts, including both Cape Nurseries, cementing his reputation as a top-tier talent. The Grade 1 Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas looms large, where he is poised to start as the hot favorite.
EIGHT ON EIGHTEEN Shines on Return
Runner-up ALL OUT FOR SIX held on for second, while EIGHT ON EIGHTEEN made a commendable return to racing, finishing 2.75 lengths back in third. The Langerman winner was running for the first time in 154 days and showed enough promise to be considered a genuine contender in the upcoming Cape Guineas. His closing sectional of 23.4 seconds was only marginally slower than the winner's, underscoring his potential for further improvement.
Shock Win for ZIYASHA in Bantry Bay Stakes
The day’s major upset came in the 1100m World Sports Betting Bantry Bay Stakes, where 40/1 outsider ZIYASHA stunned the field with a bold front-running display. Ridden expertly by Raymond Danielson, the Rafeef gelding used his early speed to establish an unassailable lead, fending off MEU CAPITANO and QUESTIONING for his fifth career win despite carrying a hefty 62kg.
DOUBLE GRAND SLAM Takes the Summer Bowl
In the 1600m Summer Bowl, DOUBLE GRAND SLAM turned the tables on her rivals with an impressive win. The 5/2 second favorite capitalized on a collapsing pace, storming down the center of the track under Richard Fourie to beat longshot RAINBOW LORIKEET and the fast-finishing SAARTJIE. The Justin Snaith-trained filly looks set for a strong campaign as she continues to improve her fitness and form.
LION RAMPART Impresses in Sophomore Sprint
LION RAMPART, another son of One World, justified even-money favoritism with a determined victory in the 1200m World Sports Betting Sophomore Sprint (Listed). Under Richard Fourie’s skilled ride, the colt held off KAIBOY, with MISS WORLD edging into third against the colts. Fourie highlighted LION RAMPART’s growing maturity, a sign that the promising sprinter has plenty more to offer.
This action-packed day at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth showcased both dominant performances and surprise results, setting the stage for an exciting summer racing season.
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