The final field announcement and charity draw function for the Gr 1 Avontuur Estate Cape Fillies Guineas to be run this Saturday at Kenilworth, was held at Avontuur Estate last week.
Charity partner Peninsula Schools Feeding Association was present and invited the 16 schools who would benefit from the race to attend.
The main interest at the announcement of the field was whether the classy Gr 1 winner Carry On Alice would be travelling down from Johannesburg to take on the like of Equus Champion Two-Year-Old Filly from last season Majmu and the Cape’s leading three-year-old filly Cold As Ice.
However, Carry on Alice was absent from the line-up, meaning that only two out-of-province contestants will take part, the brilliant Majmu and her Mike de Kock-trained stablemate Ataab.
The Glen Kotzen-trained Double Whammy landed an ideal pole position draw for her front-running style and will likely make a bold bid to lead from pillar to post.
The other front-running type in the field, Sunset Tripp, drew widest of all and this will likely force her to adopt aggressive tactics, so her and Double Whammy’s presence could ensure a good pace.
This will play right into the hands of Majmu, who drew six, as she is capable of producing a powerful finish from off the pace.If the pace is too slow it would be no surprise to see Ataab going out and ensuring that her more illustrious stablemate is given every possible chance to win this prestigious event and thereby land her first career Gr 1 victory.
Cold As Ice has a superb turn of foot, but does have a slight stamina doubt, so her draw of eight, one outside of Ataab is not ideal. However, a good pace should enable her to find the cover she will need to reserve her energy for the straight.
The school representatives were on tetherhooks and held their breaths when Majmu’s name was drawn. In the end the lucky school that will be represented by the high class grey filly was Kalkfontein Primary School. However, Strand Secondary School was also thrilled as they drew Cold As Ice, another of the favourites.
There were 16 schools nominated and only ten horses participating on the day, so six of the schools will not be represented by horses. They will still receive a donation of R3000 each.
Gates open at 11h30 on Saturday, and entry is free. The weather forecast looks fantastic with a sunny warm day expected. Gourmet Food Trucks, a wine bar, a craft beer garden and lots of free kiddies entertainment make this the perfect family day out. See you there!
