News has just come through that the successful partnership of trainer Mike De Kock and jockey Anthony Delpech has come to an end. The reasons for the split are not yet known, but one of the most successful trainer/jockey partnerships has officially ended.

Anthony Delpech has decided to go it alone as a freelance rider. The partnership won the Durban July in successive years, BOLD SILVANO (2010) and IGUGU (2011).

The split is reported to be an amicable one in which the two will be reunited when and if offered. Earlier on Sunday, the Mike De Kock trained AL HAWRAA, ridden by Anthony Delpech, finished powerfully to win by about four lengths after having lost about four lengths when fly jumping at the start.

Currently Mike De Kock lies fifth in the National Trainer's standing while Anthony Delpech stands at the top of the National Jockey's standings.