THE second series of the KZN Chapter Challenge is now in full swing with competition close throughout and only nine points separating the 50 horses at the top of the table at this stage.

The series was introduced by the KwaZulu-Natal Racing Chapter of Gold Circle late last year to afford horses racing in the lower divisions the opportunity to race for the considerable stake of R150 000 – something they would otherwise never have.

Participation is confined to horses racing in all C, CD, D, DE and E division merit rated handicaps in the province in which points are allocated on a sliding scale depending on finishing positions.

Each series has three finals, over 1 200 metres, 1 600 metres and 2 000 metres, and each final carries a stake of R150 000. Trainers can decide to compete in any one of the finals depending on the type of runner they have but its participation will be dependent on the total number of points earned in the qualifying events.

The first series was a resounding success and the finals produced thrilling, close finishes in all three races.

At this stage of the second series, Ricky Maingard’s runner, Gunpowder, has earned the most points on 16 with Dennis Bosch’s Taste The Wine next best on 14. Colin Lee’s African Drum Beat has 13 points along with Brett Crawford’s Danigma.

Buddy Maroun’s Music Master and Paul Denysschen’s Op-En-Wakker are in joint fifth place on 12 points.

As the series progresses the picture could change drastically and by the time the finals are run on Gold Cup Day at Greyville Racecourse on 2 August things could be completely different.

Issued by:  Gill Simpkins

Communications Officer

Gold Circle (Pty) Ltd