Calla Lagoon can make another splash

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 9, 2026

Turffontein Racecourse will host a seven-race card on October 10 featuring a mix of emerging horses like SKITT SMILING and established performers such as Grade 1 winner GRAND EMPIRE across distances from 1,200 to 2,200 meters. The event offers key opportunities for rising talents to secure breakthrough wins and for seasoned runners to build form ahead of the South African racing season’s crucial later stages.

The Turffontein Racecourse in South Africa is set to host a competitive card on October 10, featuring seven races that highlight emerging talents and established performers across various distances.

In the opening 1,450-meter sprint, SKITT SMILING, who has shown promise with strong finishes in recent runs, looks poised to break through for a first win. BLUNDERBORE, stepping up from a 1,200-meter debut where he finished third, is expected to improve with the longer distance. JAVELIN WARRIOR, returning from a lengthy layoff following an encouraging second-place debut, may need this outing to regain peak condition. Also in the mix are STORMACT and INCLUSION, both bringing experience that could influence the race outcome.

The second race, run over 1,600 meters, features ALITTLEBITOFLOVE and CHAMPAGNE AIR, both of whom have shown progress after moderate initial efforts and could contend if they continue improving. KNOCKIN’ BOOTS has the ability to impact the race despite recent form being less convincing, while FOREST ACT aims to rebound to earlier performances.

Race three, another 1,600-meter event, sees GREAT RIFT VALLEY making his first start since being gelded and rested after a disappointing debut as a juvenile. His initial form has held up well, and he could reward those backing him. GREEN FAIRWAY and MIDNIGHT SHOW have displayed enough potential to challenge, while SECRET GETAWAY enters with a solid debut showing suggesting room for further development.

The 2,200-meter fourth race includes HAZY DAZY, who ran impressively against stronger opposition in a recent Grade 2 over 1,450 meters carrying 95kg. Her improved fitness could make her hard to beat if the quick turnaround does not hamper her performance. INTO DANCING, SCARLET O’HARA, and FRANGIPANI are consistent competitors at a slightly lower class but may pose threats, especially receiving weight allowances.

In the fifth race, a 1,200-meter sprint, YIPPEE KIYAY remains unbeaten over this distance and could continue his winning streak on seasonal return. GIMME A VODKA, returning after rest and gelding, is one to watch for signs of sharpness. TROMBOLINES, runner-up in his last outing at this level over the same course and distance, retains blinkers and is expected to be prominent. GRISELDA, though unplaced in a late 2-year-old Grade 2, presents potential for advancement.

The sixth race over 1,600 meters sees Grade 1 SA Classic winner GRAND EMPIRE returning after a layoff. Despite a wide draw and targeting more significant targets later in the season, he should remain competitive. RADIO STAR may also pose a challenge in this contest.

Rounding out the program is the 1,450-meter seventh race, where WALKINGINTHEWOODS arrives in strong form following a commanding debut win at 1,200 meters over two months ago. The step up in distance and added fitness suggest he could improve further. SUNSET WARRIOR, the last-start victor, will carry a penalty but remains in contention, while NEVER NEVER LAND and WINSTON’S WONDER bring experience and form that could see them involved in the finish.

Overall, the Turffontein meeting promises a blend of promising newcomers and seasoned runners aiming to advance their careers or maintain form heading into the remainder of the South African racing season.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.