Chocolate Soldier's blistering pace is his biggest attribute and he was always going to be hard to beat on the inside track at Turffontein, and from a good draw. He won Race 7 over 1000m on Saturday, 22 June, from pillar to post, putting 4.25 lengths and more between himself and older horses in a handicap, and in a time of 57, 91s.

He's only two, still learning and with his youthful habit of tearing away has given Corne Spies sleepless nights. But he is starting to put it together and was at his most sensible so far taking the turn, settling better in the home run and kicking away professionally and with a long stride.

"I was a passenger today, Chocolate Soldier did all the work. He kicked well and gave me a nice feel," said jockey Kabelo Matsunyane.

"He's learning about it now and there could be bigger things for him," said Corne, who has a July Day race in mind for this promising son of sire sensation, One World.

There was confidence from the yard in Chocolate Soldier and his owners, who represent the proverbial 'United Nations', were trackside to witness the win. They included UK-based Chris Brown as well as Jose Suares, who flew in from Vietnam with his family. Stalwart Rob Macnab seldom misses a beat, Izak Bergh was on course too and Sergio Poriazis was there in spirit - he couldn't make it on the day.

Well done to all!