It only really sank in for me when dual Vodacom Durban July winner Do It Again stepped off the float at Summerveld yesterday. Interviewing Justin Snaith’s assistant trainer Janene Newlands at their Summerveld yard, it occurred to me that South Africa’s Champions Season for 2020 is nigh.

Snaith sent up the first batch of 11 horses from the Cape to settle in to the KZN yard. They walked off the Choice Carriers float looking like they had enjoyed their long journey and were happy to be in the province that is treated to such kind winters near the coast.

We spent some time at the stables before the horses had arrived and there is really a lot that goes on to prepare for the horse’s arrival. The bedding is laid out, the water buckets filled and food prepared. Once they had arrived, they were thoroughly checked by Newlands and Dr Ralph Katzwinkel from the Summerveld Equine Hospital. The report was that they all looked as if they had travelled well. Newlands said that they were drinking which was a good sign and they looked bright.

Dual Vodacom Durban July winner Do It Again walked off the float like he owned the place and if he was able to speak I’m sure he would have said “I’m back to defend my crown. I’m not done for yet!” He looked a million dollars and came straight from Drakenstein Stud where he was rested.

There will be more horses coming to KZN from the Snaith yard later in the month and Vaughan Marshall’s string arrives today. Other trainers will arrive over the next few weeks. The Gold Circle media team go out of their way to welcome the visitors and ensure the coverage on social media is great for all to enjoy.   

Bunker Hunt, Winter Is Over, Wild Coast, Crown Towers, Rattle Mouse and Captain Tatters to mention a few accompanied the big boy Do it Again and are here for the big season. Team Snaith are sure to provide us all with some fantastic performances over the next few months.

By Warren Lenferna