That’s three Graded level placings on a spectacular day with most of the country’s top horses in action – nothing to be frowned upon in this league and ensuring that the stable jumped two positions into 16^th spot on the final National Log for 2021/2. (45 winners, 174 places, R4,5-million stakes).

Corne said: “It’s been a good season for us with Grade 3 wins by William Robertson, Supreme Quest and Prophet from a small string of runners. William had to bump Captain’s Ransom on Saturday from a wide draw, went down by under half a length to arguably one of the greatest fillies ever to race in South Africa.

Her time was faster than the time set by our Van Halen in 2020 and a split second outside the course record, testimony to how good William Robertson ran. He’s a top horse now rated as one, so we’ll have to run in set-weights races to be competitive. But he’s talented enough, could have a good summer.”

“Imperial Ruby loves Greyville, ran his heart out in the Gold Cup and got oh so close to winning – he’ll be back next season, a warrior over long distances and maybe we can pick up another feature with him. Prophet took his run on the inside rail where it may have been flat on the day, I expected him to get closer but it was still a noteworthy performance to Cousin Casey who really is a top young horse. But ours is consistent and talented, one to watch this summer.”

Corne has almost completed a move of all the runners to Randjesfontein and he’s looking forward to the new season. “There are just a few more to come over from the Vaal but this will be our first full season from Randjes and we’re set for good times,” he noted.

Owners wanting to join the stable can phone Corne on 076 999 6011 or mail cornespies@hotmail.com

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