The Mike de Kock-trained Wild One put in pleasing work at Summerveld on Tuesday under big race rider Anthony Delpech and remains the favourite for the Gr 1 eLan Property Group Gold Cup over 3200m to be run on Super Saturday at Greyville over the weekend.

Delpech said Wild One was never one to show much at home, but both he and De Kock were very pleased with his wellbeing.

De Kock also emphasised that this horse was at present very sound.

The yard were bullish about his chances.

Owner Sean Phillips bought Wild One back for R200,000 at a January dispersal sale, which speaks volumes for the regard in which he is held, considering he will turn six on Gold Cup day. The decision could well pay dividends.

The Mogok gelding jumps from a plum draw of five and is coming off two excellent second places in the Gr 2 Cup Trial over 1800m and the KZN Breeders Million Mile respectively, which were both run at Greyville. On those two runs he looks to have improved, so looks capable of handling the overall six point merit rated raise he has been given since finishing a 0,5 length second in last year’s the Gold Cup. He has clearly benefitted from the long layoff he was given after his gallant effort in that big race.

De Kock and Delpech had an early morning start on Tuesday when leaving the Wild Coast at 4:30 a.m in order to gallop Wild One at Summerveld, before returning to the coastal resort to play in the second round of the popular Gold Circle Racing Masters golf tournament.

De Kock is no slouch at the game and finished second overall off his single figure handicap.

The coveted “Green Jacket” was won by Odyar Nelson, who fought back doggedly after starting the second day with three “black outs”. He overtook overnight leader Yogesh Chetty late on the final nine and was able to hold his nerve to deny the consistent De Kock.

The Lady’s “White Jacket” was won by Sandi Burger.

The best gross score was achieved by Dean Waterston, who plays off a handicap of two.

The tournament above all emphasises the togetherness of the racing fraternity and always provides an excellent freshener before the new season, although it does usually occur after the Gold Cup, which has been postponed this year due to the inclement weather last weekend.

By David Thiselton

Picture: Wild One (Nkosi Hlophe)