Lion to storm the ramparts

FURTHER back than most care to remember, the universal cry across the board was always, ‘we need a stakes increase to stay viable’.

- ANDREW HARRISON

That issue has been addressed by newly formed Race Coast with lucrative stake pots now on offer in conjunction with recently announced incentives for most participants.

However, there is still a hangover as far as the horse population is concerned given the dwindling numbers due to Covid and also the once poor potential returns. No doubt that situation will be remedied in time but those still in the game can make hay.

But for Hollywood Racing, who notched up their 700th winner last week, today’s meeting at Hollywoodbets Scottsville may not have made muster as their runners make up a significant number in many of the races.

Only eight runners were carded to face the starter in the Gallop TV A Stakes - worth R185 000 - that heads the card and perennial raider Clinton Binda could have taken home the lion’s share of the purse with Ziyasha. However, the wheels have come off, literally, with the gelding scratched because of no transport.

Ziyasha’s defection has left the way open for Gareth van Zyl’s gelding Lion Rampart. He is having his third run after a break since returning from the Cape and should strip close his peak with S’Manga Khumalo in town to enhance his chances.

Stable companion Luhamba Phambili has been scratched leaving just six runners in the contest.

Hithemhardsunshine didn’t feature from a wide draw in a small feature last time out but did run Ziyasha to within a length three runs back so he could pop up. Fabian Habib saddles Mover And Shaker, the highest rated runner in the field.