LERENA DECIDES TO DITCH THE CARBS

In exciting updates, Gavin Lerena, the renowned South African senior jockey with over +2000 career wins to-date, has made a gigantic decision. Lerena has committed to reducing his weight to 53 kilograms to ride the Wernars & Sewgoolam 3-year-old Barbaresco, in the renewal of the Hollywoodbets Durban July this year.

This isn’t the first time the seasoned jockey has faced a weight challenge in pursuit of victory. Back in 2021, Lerena made headlines when he embarked on a demanding diet to cut down to the same weight for the same prestigious race. Committed to the call from a dear friend and respected Cape horse trainer Michelle Rix, Lerena managed to drop from his then-current weight of 55 kilograms to the required 53 kilograms. His dedication paid off spectacularly as he clinched the victory in that behind closed doors Durban July riding Kommietdieding.

Lerena’s commitment reflects not only his personal dedication but also his belief in Barbaresco’s potential. Getting down to 53 kilograms is no easy feat, but we believe Barbaresco has what it takes to give it a try. Lerena is all in to give him the best chance to perform at his peak.

For the Wernars family, Barbaresco will be their fourth individual runner in the prestigious event and a sixth starter overall. Their best finish to date came in 2020, when their homebred Divine Odyssey, secured seventh place, just 3.45 lengths behind the winner. Expectations are high for Barbaresco, as the family aims to improve on their previous performances.

Additionally, this will be an especially significant event for Rikesh Sewgoolam, for whom Barbaresco will be the first Durban July acceptor and runner. It’s a thrilling moment for us, as the team expressed. Having Gavin Lerena on board is a huge boost, and we’re optimistic about his chances.

As the countdown continues to the 2024 renewal of Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday 6th July, all eyes will be on Gavin Lerena and Barbaresco, as they prepare to ride the wave and make history in one of South Africa’s most esteemed horse racing events.

Stay tuned for more updates as we follow their journey to the big race!