ROYAL ZULU GUARD, trained by champion KZN trainer for the 2013/4 season, Duncan Howells, ridden by Muzi Yeni and owned by Roy Moodley won the Listed Michael Roberts Handicap.

The start was a very scrappy one with KING NEPTUNE being the first to show from SILVER AGE back in second. Most of the field fought with their riders as they tried to settle down in the heat. TIGER'S RETREAT began to make up a few places as they went around the first turn. The eventual winner, ROYAL ZULU GUARD bided his time mid field and was only set alight at the top of the straight.

ROYAL ZULU GUARD had moved up into third around the final bend and once jockey Muzi Yeni let him go, it was race over and he drew away and the result was never in doubt. It looked easier than the 1.75 length win. JOSHUA'S CROWN moved up too late and although he ran on late, the connections would have been heartened by the effort. KING NEPTUNE stayed on well for third and did well considering that he set a good pace. AUCTION KING was not disgraced in fourth but he left his run too late.

Incidentally, as a trainer, Michael Roberts won this race three times as a jockey and twice as a trainer. Jockey Muzi Yeni made this his fourth Michael Roberts Handicap winner.

ROYAL ZULU GUARD was bred in Australia and is out of the sire, ROCK OF GIBRALTAR - Ceol Na Sraide by King's Theatre (IRE)
Breeder: Glastonbury Farm
Owner: Mr Roy Moodley