Exactly a third of the 69 original entries for the R4.5-million, Grade 1 Vodacom Durban July, including three horses featuring on the first July Log, were withdrawn at the first acceptance stage for Africa’s greatest race to be run over 2 200m at Greyville in Durban on Saturday, July 7.
The five-year-old Silvano mare Silvan Star from the Glen Kotzen stable, that was placed seventh on the Log, and the Dennis Drier-trained three-year-old Dynasty filly Lady In Black – ninth on the Log – were withdrawn along with the Silvano filly Wind Chill from the Joe Soma yard that was on the outside looking in.
Another notable withdrawal was the three-year-old Silvano gelding Silva’s Bullet from the Dean Kannemeyer stable that had been touted as a horse to follow and a potential star in the making.
Mike de Kock, who had eight nominees has not accepted with four of his horses including the filly Nother Russia that has been retired and the three-year-old Dynasty gelding Noble Secret that had finished fourth in both the Gauteng Guineas and the SA Classic and third in the recent SA Derby at Turffontein.
Also out of the big race is the stable’s exciting filly Takingthepeace. The three-year-old ran a gallant race but could only manage fourth place in the SA Oaks at Turffontein where she was bidding to win the Triple Tiara. She had won the first two legs, the Gauteng Fillies Guineas and the SA Fillies Classic, but found the 2 450m trip just a little too far on the day.
The first supplementary entries will be received up to 11am on May 15 with second declarations due on Monday June 18 and final supplementary entries due on Monday, June 18.
– Journalist Richard McMillan – Gold Cirlce
