Justin Snaith was breathing a lot easier after top weight Futura drew 6 in the draw for next Saturday’s R3,5million Gr 1 Vodacom Durban July. The 18-horse field with two reserve runners was announced and the draw made at a function at Greyville yesterday.

Snaith was left in suspense as his name was one of the last to be pulled from the hat to make the draw for Futura with only one single figure gate left.

A visibly relieved Snaith comments, “I’m extremely happy with the draw. I couldn’t have asked for better. The horse is working like a train and although 60kg is a worry I’m very happy the way things are going.”

However, his other entry Dynamic was made first reserve. “I’m a bit disappointed that he did not get in. I think he deserved a place ahead of a few that did make the field. But you never know. Things can change.”

Not so lucky was Joey Ramsden who pulled 20 for The Conglomerate who will be ridden by crack Australian apprentice Chad Schofield, son of former top South African jockey Glyn.

Joey Ramsden was understandably disappointed with his 20 draw. “What can I say? I’m disappointed with the draw; yes. Is the horse working well; yes? What will be, will be!

“Chad comes highly recommended. They were impressed with him in the UK and he’s got a contract to ride in Hong Kong so he’s obviously got something. He seems to be a bit of a maverick and I like that in a jockey.”

Mike de Kock, after a string of wide draws in the last couple of years, pulled 1 and 5 for his two fillies Majmu and Pine Princess although he was none to confident.

“Majmu is going to have to run out of her skin to win at the weights and let’s be honest she has a mountain to climb. She only raced to her rating of 114 when she was two! However, she is a very good filly and very honest. Barring her missing her last run she has had a good prep.”

Of Pine Princess he said, “With that draw and at the weights she has to be very good each way value.”

Assistant trainer Deshone Steyn stood in for Sean Tarry he said Legal Eagle was still in Jo’burg. “He is doing very well. I’m not worried about the draw (11) as he comes from off the pace and it must be mentioned that this is his peak run.”

“French Navy is also still in Jo’burg and Sean says he is doing very well and is a big runner based on his Daily News run.” He drew alongside Legal Eagle in 10.

The traditional July gallops take place at Greyville on Thursday morning starting at 7am and will be televised live on Dstv channel 239.

By Andrew Harrison

Picture: Futura (Nkosi Hlophe)