David Thiselton

In further Hollywoodbets Durban July breaking news the Tony Peter-trained The Ultimate King was scratched on Wednesday morning when found to be lame on his near hind.

This was bitterly disappointing news for owners Suzette and Basie Viljoen as they felt he had “a good chance.”

The couple had a runner two years ago, Hoedspruit, who finished unplaced, but Suzette confirmed the disappointment and added, “There are a lot of races, but the July is definitely every owner’s dream.”

The second reserve runner now comes into the race.

The Gr 2 SA Derby winner Curious Girl thus gives Mike and Mathew de Kock a second runner in the field of 18 and she also gives champion owners Hollywood Racing a second runner.

History is now going to be made as Mickaelle Michel has been declared for Curious Girl, which means there will be two woman jockeys in the big race.

Mickaelle became available when the favourite Star Major was scratched yesterday (Tuesday), whilst Rachel Venniker was declared for the first reserve to come in, the Erico Verdonese-trained Choisaanada.

Rachel became the first woman to ride in the July two years ago and ironically she was aboard the Suzette and Basie Viljoen-owned Hoedspruit.

Mike de Kock has won the July five times and will be out to land a first one as a partner with his son Mathew.

Curious Girl comes into the draw vacated by The Ultimate King, the plum barrier position of three.

The fairy tale story behind French jockey Mickaelle Michel is now alive once more, but instead of being on the favourite she is now aboard the horse who officially has the toughest task. The Futura filly is officially 6kg under sufferance carrying bottom weight of 52kg off a 100 merit rating.