Eyeofthetiger wins Durban July

2006-07-01 17:18

Durban - For Cape trainer Dean Kannermeyer the R2m Durban July Handicap on Saturday was a case of sadness turned to ecstasy.

Last year Kannermeyer had trained the July favourite, Rabiya. However, shortly after the start Rabiya broke his hind leg and had to be put down.

On Saturday, however, it was a completely different story when Eyeofthetiger started as favourite (11-2) and had a dream run to win comfortably. It was Kannemeyer's second July victory after training the winner of two years ago, Dynasty.

It was a first win for jockey Gerrit Schlechter and also a change of fortune for him after he was replaced on Dynasty two years ago by Robbie Fradd.

In the race the pace was on from the start when Lion Tamer and Jamaica took the field along until the entrance of the straight where Sushisan moved up to challenge, with Eyeofthetiger beginning to unwind a strong run.

Eyeofthetiger soon took command and went on to cross the line 1-1/4, lengths ahead of Sushisan followed by Equal Image and Lion Tamer.

Six of the first seven horses where three-year-olds.

Schlechter was fined R1 000 by race officials afterwards for his victory salute before the winning post.

Tote win: R7.40. Places: R2.70 R7.10 5.40

Swingers: 9x18 R41.20 9x14 R24.70 14x18 R93.80

Exacta: 9x18 R263.90

Trifecta: 9x18x14 R4 249.30

Quartet: 9x18x14x19 R43 281.00

Time: 132,59 seconds

Scratched: Nil

- SAPA