Weekend runner comments

There are no runners from De Kock Racing that leap off the page this weekend, but among the seven engaged, a few are expected to show promise for the Lucky Fish ambassadors. Their performances will prove informative for the stable, and for punters looking ahead.

Spaarne Rivier makes his re-appearance after a four-month break in Race 9 over 1200m on the Polytrack at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Friday evening. He showed early promise, but was sent away from the yard for a rest after a disappointing run over 1600m in December.

Mathew de Kock commented: “This is a bit short for Spaarne Rivier and we’ll be using it as a stepping stone to get him going again. He’s one worth keeping an eye on.”

At Turffontein on Sunday, a much improved run is likely from Rafeef’s son Mega Awesome in Race 2 over 1400m. Mat said: “We expected to see a lot better on his debut because he shows us some ability in his work at home. We’re putting a tongue tie on and he should go nicely over the extra.

“First-timer Sutter’s Mill (Fire Away) is a full-brother to Down By The River, who won the Michael Roberts Stakes over 1750m. He has been showing us some nice work, but he’s quite a green horse so will need the racetrack experience. We’d like to see him enjoy the run and finish the race off well.”

“Onward runs in Race 3 over 1400m. She has made improvement on her 1200m debut and we’re happy with her work. It looks like she’ll be suited to 1400m. There is some good form in the race so it won’t be easy for us, but we do give her an eachway chance.”

Special Star gets the services of Craig Zackey in Race 8 over 2000m. He won on her last September, but this looks like a race in which at least four others have winning claims. “Special Star is a limited filly. With a bit of luck in transit from a sticky gate, she could play a role. But she’s not giving us much to get excited about at home.”

Real Stunner and Naretoi are new to the stable, transferred from the James Crawford yard. Both will line up in Race 9 over 1800m. Mat commented: “Naretoi is showing us absolutely zero in his home gallops, so will have to surprise us. Real Stunner, on the other hand, has put up some good work. He is drawn wide, but has Richard Fourie up. If Richard can get Real Stunner into a good spot, he should run very well.”