Ever-Changing Moods
Good morning all,
What can one say in these ever-changing times?
Globally, we are never quite sure where Donald’s shifting moods will steer the planet next. Closer to home, however, South Africa has more than enough challenges of its own to keep us occupied.
This week marks 36 years since Nelson Mandela’s release — and it is sobering to reflect on how much damage has unfolded under ANC governance since then.
We endure yet another State of the Nation Address, delivered before a well-dressed audience at a reported cost of R7 million. It may well be President Ramaphosa’s ninth attempt at promises to improve service delivery, tackle unemployment, fight crime and resolve infrastructure failures.
Yes, the Nation is certainly in a State.
Water shortages and crime levels remain critical. Johannesburg continues to battle severe water disruptions, and today Pretoria finds itself in the same position. To add insult to injury, a senior premier appeared on television explaining that they too suffer — and “had to go to a hotel this morning.” One struggles to know whether to laugh or despair.
Many citizens have taken to the streets in various protest against the current situation.
Commissions continue, accountability remains scarce, and when matters do reach the courts, they drift into long, drawn-out processes.
On a lighter note, I did enjoy the recent exchanges involving the right honourable members and Mr O’Sullivan — fascinating viewing. From being labelled underqualified to becoming a high-flyer, he is certainly a character. He even phoned me about some ABC posts a year ago, so I made a point of tuning in to the Ad Hoc discussion.
Now, Let’s Change the Mood — Racing
Jonbon runs at Ascot on Saturday — what a remarkable horse.
This will be his 27th start, boasting a record of 19 wins and 7 seconds. Quite extraordinary.
Cheltenham is now just four weeks away. Four days of elite racing from Tuesday 10 March to Friday 14 March — and the anticipation is building.
A few early thoughts (subject to final confirmations):
Supreme Novices’ Hurdle
Old Park Star
Arkle
Lulamba
Champion Hurdle
Very intriguing. The New Lion and Brighterdaysahead are prominent, while we await Constitution Hill’s planned run on the flat at Southwell next Friday — a £40K race on the dirt with solid opposition. Lossiemouth may opt for the Mares’ race.
Brown Advisory
Final Demand disappointed last time but could represent value.
Champion Chase
Majborough heads the market. Don’t overlook Il Était Temps at a decent price.
Ryanair Chase
Bambino Fever mentioned, though Gaelic Warrior is currently favourite. JP McManus holds a strong hand with Fact To File and Jonbon also in the mix.
Stayers’ Hurdle
Teahupoo remains the one to beat.
Triumph Hurdle
Narciso Has
Paddy Power (Mares’ Chase)
Dinoblue
Gold Cup
Wide open — but never dismiss Galopin Des Champs.
More to follow once final declarations are confirmed.
Local Racing
Racing on Friday at PE:
Richard to take the opener.
Watch Craig Zackey in the second — he could be on the right one.
A tricky meeting overall.
Saturday previews will follow on the site.
Football
Hearts snatched victory over Hibs in the closing minutes and now face Rangers at Ibrox. If they want to keep the “we shall not be moved” momentum going, that’s a must-result fixture.
Tennis
I’ve taken a renewed interest in tennis lately — Aryna Sabalenka may have had something to do with that.
There are plenty of interesting links on the site, including:
A strong interview featuring Greg Bortz and Andrew Fortune
News updates from 4Racing
Early ante-post markets for the Hollywood Durban July
On a nostalgic note, one of my favourite bands from my MOD days was The Style Council, fronted by Paul Weller.
A reminder of simpler times.
Good punting 👍
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