Star Major has been scratched from Saturday’s G1 Durban July at Greyville after developing an elevated temperature, removing the expected favourite from South Africa’s flagship 2200m race.
The three-year-old had been a central figure in the market after winning the G2 South African Guineas and G1 Greyville 2000, both at Greyville, but trainer James Crawford said an abnormal blood test forced the withdrawal after declarations.
The late change leaves fellow three-year-olds Wish List and Note To Self fighting for favouritism, while Justin Snaith now has five live runners as he chases a record-breaking sixth Durban July success. Snaith is currently level with Mike de Kock on five wins in the race.
Snaith Hand Strengthens After Star Major Blow
Snaith’s team is headed by Wish List, with Andrew Fortune booked for what is set to be the 59-year-old jockey’s farewell appearance, and Note To Self under Richard Fourie. Regulation, Legal Counsel and Native Ruler complete the stable’s hand.
Zac Lloyd, fresh from Royal Ascot success on Moonfall, rides Regulation, while Chad Schofield partners King Pelles in a field that still carries a strong international jockey angle.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club reported that the Durban July will be run at 10pm Hong Kong time on Saturday, 4 July.
