Durban July hero Marinaresco, so far a seemingly rock-solid favourite to repeat last year’s win in the World Sports Betting Champions Cup, is reported very much on target for Saturday’s Greyville Grade 1.

Candice Bass-Robinson said: “He was on easy work for two weeks or so after the July. He doesn’t take a lot but he worked last week and will do so again this week. He is fit and well, and ready to go.”

The Vodacom showpiece, although completed in fast time, was marked by a moderate early gallop and Mrs Robinson said: “I think the race could be run differently this time with different tactics but it all depends on what they do with Captain America and on whether he goes to the front. It would suit us to have a pace.”

Marinaresco is 18-10 favourite with the sponsors while Captain America shares second spot with Bela-Bela on 9-2. Other prices are 8-1 It’s My Turn, 10-1 Table Bay, 12-1 Black Arthur, 16-1 Deo Juvente, Brazuca, Ten Gun Salute, 20-1 Sail South, 25-1 Judicial, Matador Man.

Betting World goes fractionally shorter about the favourite at 17-10 with Captain America on 9-2 and Bela-Bela on 5-1.

By Michael Clower