All the info you need to know about the Vodacom Durban July 2018 runner GOLD STANDARD. This Glen Kotzen trained colt will be ridden by Craig Zackey in the big race at Greyville on Saturday 7th July. Betting is available now at Hollywoodbets.
(Photo Credit: Gold Circle)
2 – Gold Standard – 50/1
Jockey: Craig Zackey
Trainer: Glen Kotzen
Owner: Chrigor Stud (Pty) Ltd (Nom: Mrs S Hattingh) & Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)
Colours: Blue, white square, blue sleeves and cap
Breeder: Mr & Mrs C F de Vos
Sire: Trippi (USA)
Dam: Olympic Dam by Model Man
Age: 4
Colour: Bay
Sex: Colt
MR: 117
Weight: 59.5
Draw: 6
Career Record: 12 runs, 3 wins, 6 places
Stakes Won: 966,875
Runs at Greyville: 1
Runs at 2200m Distance: 0
Notable Runs:
4th in the 2017 Gr 1 Sun Met (2000m)
2nd in the 2016 Gr 1 Cape Guineas (1600m)
1st in the 2016 Gr 2 Selangor Cup (1600m)
Trainer Comments:
Cape based conditioner Glen Kotzen has a victory in this event on his CV and he saddles the pair of GOLD STANDARD and 1st reserve runner PACK LEADER. On the former he commented, “His gallop was impressive. I would have liked to have given him another run but he is very well at present. He needs a fast pace but will be running on nicely. Pack Leader’s gallop was preferred though as he is a bit more versatile and will suit any pace. Should he not get in, then he will be the best bet on the card in the consolation over the same c & d in race 3 earlier on in the day. The main dangers are African Night Sky and Made To Conquer, “I will be happy for Jeff Lloyd” were Glen’s final words.
Jockey Comments:
Craig Zackey’s remarks on Gold Standard were, “His prep has gone really well, his gallop was very good and I’m certain he will come on leaps. He’s doing really well according to Mr. Kotzen. I will try to go to do his final work on Thursday morning. The pace is the problem, there’s not much pace so it may not be a true run race, either way whether it’s fast or slow my horse can quicken. African Night Sky must be the danger and has had a prefect prep, Do It Again must have a chance and will be suited to 2200m, Majestic Mambo is capable of running a big race and the filly Fiorella is well weighted. They are all dangers.”
Winning Form – Magic Tips Comment:
This quality four-year old has unfortunately endured an injury plagued career following his excellent effort in the Met last year. He hasn’t been at his best this term but had an encouraging recent comeback run in the slow run Gold Challenge, the formline of which was boosted when the 7th placed entrant Trip To Heaven won his subsequent start. This Trippi colt will be fitter and is another who will appreciate the likely lack of pace in this contest but he may be one run short of his peak. Nevertheless, he can run a place for an in-form jock.
Verdict: Improved in comeback run, won’t mind likely slow pace but may be a run short.
Hollywoodbets Comments:
Glen Kotzen trained the 2009 Vodacom Durban July winner Big City Life.
View the 2018 Vodacom Durban July horse profiles here:
| No | Horse | No | Horse | ||
| 1 | – | Coral Fever | 11 | – | Fiorella |
| 2 | – | Gold Standard | 12 | – | White River |
| 3 | – | Abashiri | 13 | – | Tilbury Fort |
| 4 | – | African Night Sky | 14 | – | Yakeen |
| 5 | – | Elusive Silva | 15 | – | Made to Conquer |
| 6 | – | Liege | 16 | – | Rocket Countdown |
| 7 | – | Star Express | 17 | – | Dark Moon Rising |
| 8 | – | Do It Again | 18 | – | Secret Potion |
| 9 | – | Majestic Mambo | 19 | – | Pack Leader |
| 10 | – | Matador Man | 20 | – | Crowd Pleaser |
