Master Sabina (SAF) ensured that his winter campaign would not go winless as he notched up his first graded victory in the Gr 3 Tabgold 2200 at Greyville on Saturday. Alexander (SAF) caught the eye as he dashed up late for second ahead of Gold Onyx (NZ) and Gone Baby Gone (SAF).

Serissa took up his expected role as pacemaker ahead of Mercurial Brave, Shogunnar, Master Sabina and Tribal Dance. Disco Al was next best ahead of Omaticaya, Gone Baby Gone and Knight To Remember, with Alexander and Air Patrol at the rear.

With the field ambling along, Glen Hatt decided to try and inject some pace into the proceedings and brought Disco Al to the front about 1000m out. Something seemed amiss, though, as he faded soon after entering the straight where Gold Onyx emerged as the livewire. The veteran kicked clear halfway down the straight, with Master Sabina briefly looking for galloping room. Once the gap emerged, though, he showed a decisive turn of foot and collared Gold Onyx about a furlong out. There was still time for a late flurry from Alexander but Anton Marcus had matters in hand and Master Sabina was not unduly extended in notching up his sixth career victory.

Master Sabina was a reserve runner for the Vodacom Durban July, his bid for inclusion in the main field probably dashed by his failure in the Cup Trial in June. He had not enjoyed the run of the race on that occasion, and showed what he is capable of here with an eye-catching performance.

Alexander has really come into his own and this was a top effort over a trip short of his best. His Gold Cup preparation seems to be coming along perfectly.

Gold Onyx has been a regular runner at this meeting since 2010, the year he posted a big win in the Gr 1 Premiers Champion Stakes (the meeting was moved to the end of July that year to accommodate the World Cup). July day certainly seems to bring out the best in him and this was a sterling effort from the 6-year-old.

Gone Baby Gone bounced back to form following a disappointing Lonsdale Stirrup Cup effort and this was a respectable performance from a bad draw.

4 b g Jet Master - Sabina Park by Sportsworld (USA)
Mr M De Broglio
Bred by Mr M De Broglio
Winning trainer: Geoff Woodruff