The De Grendel Cape Merchants, a Grade 2 contest over 1200m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, delivered a thrilling finish as OUTLAW KING, trained by Dean Kannemeyer and ridden by Sean Veale, stormed home to claim victory. The gelding displayed both determination and class, wearing down long-time leader CAFÉ CULTURE to secure the win by 1.25 lengths.

Rounding out the placings, SURJAY, carrying a hefty 63kg, edged out a late challenge from THE REAL PRINCE to take third. Interestingly, all the top four finishers were drawn and raced on the inside of the straight course, highlighting a distinct track bias. Horses drawn wide, including KING OF THE GAULS, DANCE VARIETY, and SEEKING THE STARS, struggled to make an impact. Among those racing on the stand-side, MEU CAPITANO fared best but was still soundly beaten by seven lengths.

A Resilient Return to Form

Trainer Dean Kannemeyer praised the patience of the DK Racing Syndicate, explaining that OUTLAW KING had faced a tough road back to the winner’s circle. After being sidelined by a virus during his time in KZN, the once-promising juvenile had to miss most of his three-year-old campaign.

“We gave him the time he needed to recover, and thankfully, he’s come back strong this spring,” said Kannemeyer. “I’m thrilled for the Syndicate. He’s by Rafeef, a very good, up-and-coming stallion, and this win speaks to the potential we’ve always seen in him.”

Jockey Sean Veale Praises Outlaw King

Jockey Sean Veale was equally effusive in his praise, noting the gelding’s potential over longer distances. “OUTLAW KING feels like he wants further, but he was traveling so well early on that I just let him stride. When I asked for more, he quickened beautifully,” Veale said.

The victory was especially sweet for punters, as OUTLAW KING was heavily backed from 16/1 to 17/2. The winning time of 71.2 seconds came on a fast track with a noticeable headwind. While the penetrometer reading didn’t indicate any irregularities, the sprint course clearly favored those on the inside.

Race Analysis

CAFÉ CULTURE, a 25/1 outsider, produced a game effort to lead for much of the race, while SURJAY and THE REAL PRINCE both ran gallant races despite their weight and positioning challenges. The result, however, belonged to the well-prepared OUTLAW KING, who ended a 511-day winless streak since his last victory at Hollywoodbets Greyville.

This classy gelding has now added a coveted Grade 2 title to his resume, delighting his jubilant connections and setting the stage for an exciting future campaign.

Image extraction: Cape Racing