1

Purple Pitcher

Winner of the Grade 1 SA Classic over 1800m, this son of New Predator has been a winning machine since turning three, reeling off six victories in his last seven starts. Should have no problem going the distance.

2

Hotarubi

Finished 3-lengths behind Purple Pitcher in the Classic and looks unlikely to reverse the form over further. Does have a place chance.

3

Pure Predator

Has not quite fulfilled the promise he showed as a juvenile and is winless this season, but has made frame in features in his last two.

4

Mondial

Well-beaten in both the Gauteng Guineas and the SA Classic, this Flower Alley gelding might improve going further and must be included in the quartet.

5

Presley

Winner of three of his last four, he takes a gigantic step up in class now and is untried over this distance, but this son of Oratorio could be the surprise package.

6

Marauding Horde

Highly progressive, this Vercingetorix colt should love the distance after winning twice over 2000m. Don’t be fooled by his rating. He has a lot more to come and will be right there at the finish. One to beat.

7

Viva Brazil

What this Oratorio colt lacks in class, he makes up for with heart. Looks out of his depth against some of his rivals here, but should be suited by the distance and could show significant improvement.

8

George Handel

A two-time winner, he finished a 4.25-length second to Marauding Horde in a 2000m Listed race last time out and meets his conqueror on 7lb better terms. Could earn if suited by the distance.

9

Twenty Drachma’s

The only runner proven over marathon distances, winning twice and finishing second over 2400m. Big jump in class, but this Danon Platina gelding looks a solid stayer in the making.

10

Shoot The Rapids

Raider from KwaZulu-Natal shouldn’t pose much of a threat to the favourites based on ratings. Does boast a victory over 2200m, but could find the Highveld altitude a challenge.

11

Atarime

Wasn’t disgraced when thrown in the deep end last time out to contest the Listed Hawwaam Stakes when fresh out the maidens. This is a much tougher task though, under a much heavier weight.

12

Thunee Playa

This one-time winner from six starts will have to make lots of improvement to feature at the business end.

13

Taxhaven

Still a maiden after 12 runs and has been well beaten by several of these rivals. Difficult to make any sort of a case for this son of Erupt.