Safe Passage had to return to Joburg to prove he is the horse is once was, or so it is assumed, after a subpar run at Greyville in the Drill Hall Stakes.

That Grade 2 was one of the hottest races this season with a group of horses unlikely to be seen in one field again during the Winter season - although the Gold Challenge Gr1 could disprove that theory if everyone shows up.

Nonetheless, Safe Passage was capable but unimpresssive on his return to Joburg with trainer Mike De Kock likely relieved he returned a performance at all as opposed to that no show at Greyville. The Daily News winner looked a shadow of himself as a 4 year old, rather sadly, as many were hoping he would return a better 4yo horse and a possible July winner. Those hopes have been dashed and today's run didn't change too many opinions.

At the weights, it was not all doom and gloom though in that Turffontein Pinnacle Stakes return beaten only 3 lengths by a horse rated 102 in Whafeef (52kgs) as opposed to Safe Passage carrying 62kgs rated at 124. Safe Passage was weighted to win by a length over the distance so he ran atleast 4 lengths (8 pounds) off his rating.

This was likely a relief of a Joburg comeback from THAT Drill Hall 14 and change length beating, which was unbelievable, so let's hope the class is permanent theory comes to boot when he takes his place in the Gold Challenge at Greyville in a few weeks time.

All in all everyone is hoping for the best Safe Passage to return.
 

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