By Ramiro Restrepo
After a layover in London and 20 hours in the friendly skies, I've finally made it to Cape Town, South Africa for the running of the 156th G1 Queen's Plate, sponsored by L'Ormarins, recently called “one of the top five race days in the world.” The race takes place at Kenilworth Racecourse, which has been in operation since the late 1800's. The track is also popularly known for its G1 Metropolitan, aka “The Met” race, first run in 1883, which is held at the end of this month.
This year, the Queen's Plate racing festival has expanded its format to two days. South African racing first caught my attention in 1999 when Horse Chestnut won the Met and the Triple Crown. Subsequently, Mike de Kock brought him to America to win his stateside debut at Gulfstream Park, but he was injured and retired to Claiborne Farm. So personally, it's quite special being here and I'm thrilled to be taking this whole experience in. The purpose of my visit, on behalf of Fasig-Tipton, was to continue developing business relationships with current and potential clients of our sales company, trying to build upon the success of relationship building that my co-worker, Anna Seitz, has had internationally in Australia. I'm hoping to continue the process of learning how the game and industry operates here and to communicate our sales opportunities and successes in the U.S.
Justin Snaith, one of the top local trainers in South Africa, held a High Tea function at the Mount Nelson Hotel. Quite a few members of the South African racing community attended, including Gaynor Rupert of Drakenstein Stud, Michael Jooste of Mayfair Speculators, Justin Vermaak, racing manager of Maine Chance Farms, and even a fellow American, Bri Mott of Team Valor, amongst many other locals. It was great to see those participants in South African racing in such an intimate environment.
Forty-eight hours into my trip and battling the jet lag, I have no idea how racehorses ship overseas and run right off the plane. I'd definitely need some stall rest. To borrow a line from Goodfellas, “I'd complain, but who would listen?”
It was my first time attending Kenilworth Race Course, and you definitely get an old school feeling when you step onto the grounds of a track that's been around for over 130 years. From the paddock on through to the details of the structure's architecture, there is a big emphasis on “timeless elegance,” a theme that is synonymous with the event. Patrons are asked to dress in blue and white, the racing colors of Drakenstein Stud Farm, the prominent sponsor of the festival. The layout of the viewing accommodations is very similar to the nice tent set up we see at Pimlico during Preakness week. Also of note, no patrons under 18 are allowed to attend the race festival.
Another feature that I found to be quite unique is their cashless system for all beverages and food. Patrons are given a bracelet with a chip, which can be filled at a booth with cash or your credit card. It really minimizes the wait in lines, as it becomes a grab, scan and go.
As far as the day's racing went, there were a couple of maiden races, some minor handicaps, a listed race, and the Group 2 feature from 6 furlongs to a 1 1/4 miles all accommodated on a one-turn, left-handed course. Race splits were not noted, but final time was given.
As far as the horses themselves, it was pretty cool to see the American influence in the program with horses sired by or having broodmare sires like Trippi, Giants Causeway, Fusaichi Pegasus, Red Ransom, Monarchos, Mambo in Seattle, Skip Away, Mr Greeley, Elusive Quality and others. Another interesting thing was that every horse came back to the paddock post race and did several turns in the walking in front of the paddock judge before being okayed to leave the track.
Finally, it was nice to meet some Darley Flying Start grads in Kevin Sommerville and James Trotter, who both are at Drakenstein Stud Farm. Great catching up with them and getting their views on racing and the industry in South Africa.
Saturday's card will feature two Group 1 races, a Group 2, and two Group 3's. Definitely looking forward to seeing the top quality horses in action and the bigger crowds. Will keep you guys posted.
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