Ending November on a HIGH with HAPPINESS
main image – Chasing Happiness (JC Photos)
As November drew to a close, our stable capped off the month in style with a sensational Group 3 victory on Betway Summer Cup Day 2024. Reflecting on our journey through November, each win tells a story of progeny grit, class, and the partnerships that make it all possible. Here’s a recap of the incredible achievements that made this month unforgettable:
Chasing Happiness Delivers Group 3 Glory
On the final day of the month, CHASING HAPPINESS (Rafeef x Kalami) stole the spotlight by claiming the Betway Carry On Alice Stakes (Grade 3) with a remarkable performance. Making her return after a 70 days break, she completed a thrilling treble of wins under a masterful ride by Aldo Domeyer. Congratulations to the Wernars family and a big salute to Ridgemont Highlands for breeding this exceptional talent. Well done to Justin Vermaak for picking her at the sales. This was a fitting way to celebrate the Betway Summer Cup Day with happiness – thank you to 4Racing, Betway, and partners for an outstanding day at the races. It was indeed happiness all around the racecourse.
Chasing Happinnes with connections – Candiese Lenferna Photography
Chyavana’s Golden Comeback
The month started with a bang on November 2nd as CHYAVANA (Flower Alley x Cosmic Light) stormed from last to first in a heart-stopping finish to win the ALLIED STEELRODE LISTED GOLDEN LOOM HANDICAP. A huge congratulations to owners the Wernars family, Mr. Harry Willson, and the Evered-Halls, along with breeder Maine Chance Farms. Serino Moodley’s perfectly timed ride turned a slow start into a brilliant victory. Special thanks to Montana Wernars and friends for their support – it was a memorable day!
Cosmic Queen Shines Bright
On November 11th, COSMIC QUEEN (Var x Cosmic Light) marked her return with an impressive win in the Betway Welcomes You Maiden Plate. Gavin Lerena guided her expertly to victory on her second career start after a 150+ day break. Congratulations to owners Jarryd, Laurence, and Rikesh, and well done to breeder Maine Chance Farms for producing another gem.
Montana Lights’ Moment to Shine
November 14th saw MONTANA LIGHTS (Master Of My Fate x Joan Ranger) break her maiden in the Play Soccer 6, 10, and 13 Maiden Plate. Craig Zackey delivered a fantastic ride to secure this well-deserved win for the Wernars family and breeder Mr. P. U. van Schoor. A heartfelt congratulations also goes to Montana, who shares a special bond with this promising filly.
Chieftain Doubles Up for Craig Zackey
Just a day later Friday’s twilight meeting, on November 15th, CHIEFTAIN (Vercingetorix x Miss Katalin) added to our tally with a win in the MR 83 Divided Handicap at Turffontein. Craig Zackey delivered back-to-back victories, bringing monthly double cheer to owners the bomber squad Jarryd, Laurence, and Rikesh, with a nod to breeder Drakenstein Stud for this tough performer.
Happy Mo’s Dazzling Display
November 23rd brought us another thrilling victory as HAPPY MO (Royal Mo x Gladly) charged from behind to clinch the OWA Ceiling Systems FM 86 Divided Handicap under Rachel Venniker’s thrilling masterful ride. Congratulations to the Wernars family and breeder Stonehill Stud for this exceptional filly.
Nettleton Makes It Three in a Row
On November 28th, NETTLETON (What A Winter x Clifton Road) continued her winning streak, securing a third consecutive victory under the legendary Piere Strydom. Well deserved to owner and breeder Mr. Wernars for this remarkable success.
BETWAY SUMMER CUP (Grade 1) 2024
In the day’s highlight race, the Group 1 Betway Summer Cup, our runners BARBARESCO and PUERTO MANZANO faced a tough challenge, finishing 11th and 12th respectively. As possibly foreseen, BARBARESCO did struggle with stamina on South Africa’s most demanding track, especially from a wide draw, which confirmed our pre-race concerns about his suitability for this level of staying competition. For the seasoned campaigner PUERTO MANZANO (ARG) 7yo, it was equally tough to make ground from a poor draw in his 4th consecutive attempt. We will be monitoring how he recovers in the coming weeks, but it might be time to consider calling it a day for the old warrior, granting him a well-earned retirement and the chance to enjoy a new chapter beyond the racetrack. Achieving a peak Merit Rating of 125 in a remarkable career spanning 36 runs, including 10 victories (a 27.78% win rate) and 11 placings (a 30.56% place rate), with an impressive R4,832,800 in prize money.
Looking Ahead
With November wrapped up & standing at 125 Runs, Wins 22, Places 64 Total Stake Won R2,515,013, WIN% 17.6%, Place% 51.2%, we’re excited for the opportunities December will bring. Thank you to our incredible team JVV Racing, jockeys, owners, and breeders who make these wins possible.