Good morning, Clan
Well, the holiday is now behind us and, as the song says, "I Never Wanted to Say Goodbye" — never has that felt more true than it did last week. 😢
That said, life moves on and there is plenty to look forward to as we head into what promises to be a fantastic month of sport, with the FIFA World Cup, Royal Ascot, and of course the Hollywoodbets Durban July all taking centre stage.
The July remains a hot topic. The racing purists may be unhappy about some of the leading contenders being scratched, but the Hollywood Durban July will always generate excitement, drama and anticipation like no other race on the local calendar. With R10 million in prize money on offer, record crowds and turnover seem almost guaranteed.
As for the winner, I wouldn't be surprised if either Richard Fourie or Andrew Fortune comes out on top in what looks a wide-open contest. There is every chance we could see the same famous silks fighting out the finish.
Personally, I would have loved to see Errol Flynn take his chance. Rumour had it the actor himself was hung like a donkey, and perhaps his equine namesake might have won by a head had he made the field!
Across the pond, the Derby provided plenty of controversy. In my opinion, the racing authorities made the wrong call, creating confusion and frustration for many punters and leaving a sour taste after what should have been the sport's showcase event.
Now, on to the World Cup.
History suggests the trophy will once again be lifted by one of the usual heavyweights near the top of the betting boards — but which one?
I've had a speculative punt on Scotland to win the tournament and to reach the quarter-finals at very attractive odds. Hope springs eternal!
Naturally, I'll also be cheering on South Africa, although their challenge looks even greater.
At the same time, we have the magnificent Royal Ascot meeting beginning on 16 June, offering five days of world-class racing and some fascinating betting opportunities.
Royal Ascot highlights
16 June – Queen Anne Stakes
Notable Speech
16 June – St James's Palace Stakes
Bow Echo
17 June – Prince of Wales's Stakes
Doryz
Ombudsman
Calandagan
18 June – Gold Cup
Scandinavia
19 June – Coronation Stakes
Precise
20 June – Jubilee Stakes
Jolliestar – the Australian star
Five days of top-class, competitive racing and hopefully a few winning bets along the way.
Good punting. 👍
And to finish, another classic from one of my favourite artists, Paul Carrack — truly the man with the golden voice.
