Everything you need to know about 2023 Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge runner, SAFE PASSAGE. This Mike de Kock-trained gelding also has an eye on the HDJ and might not want to cop a penalty by winning here!
6) SAFE PASSAGE 16/1
Despite not having won in just over a year, this smart Mike de Kock gelding is always there or thereabouts. The one exception came in the IOS Drill Hall Stakes, where he ran dead last after being bumped. Prior to that, SAFE PASSAGE ran third in the 2022 Betway Summer Cup and was only beaten in last year’s HDJ – a race that connections will no doubt be targeting in 2023 – by Sparkling Water and Jet Dark.
Jockey: Craig Zackey
Trainer: Mike de Kock
Owner: Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)
Breeder: Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)
Sire: Silvano (GER)
Dam: My Sanctuary by Antonius Pius (USA)
Age: 4
Colour: Bay
Sex: Gelding
Merit Rating: 124
Weight: 60
Draw: 6
Career Record: 14 runs (6 wins, 6 places)
Stakes Won: R2 980 562
Runs at Hollywoodbets Greyville: 3
Runs at 2200m Distance: 1
Notable Runs:
2nd in the 2022 Betway Summer Cup (Gr 1) 2000m
3rd in the 2022 Allied Steelrode ONAMISSIONMILE (Gr 2) 1600m
3rd in the 2022 Hollywoodbets Durban July (Gr 1) 2200m
1st in the 2022 Daily News 2000 (Gr 1) 2000m
2nd in the WSB SA Classic (Gr 1) 1800m
1st in the 2022 WSB Gauteng Guineas (Gr 2) 1600m
1st in the 2021 WSB Dingaans (Gr 2) 1600m
Trainer Comments: Saturday is a bit of a double-edged sword because I think he’s a massive July runner and one doesn’t really want him to run that well and all over them and get a penalty, but it’s a Group 1.
Winning Form Comments: 3rd run after rest. Best MR:124. *Entered for HDJ 2023. Enjoys a mile and should be cherry-ripe.
