Abashiri has pulled up well from his emphatic victory in the Gr 2 Betting World Gauteng Guineas and trainer Mike Azzie’s only further comment was “He has spoken.”

This is in line with his new policy stated before Saturday’s race, “I am not talking to the media or Tellytrack. Usually I’m the one who does all the talking and it lands me in trouble so this time I’m going to let the horse do the talking.”

Abashiri, a Lammerskraal-bred gelding by Go Deputy, did the talking alright. Jockey Karl Zechner’s strength suits him, as he is a laid back horse and was off the bit early in the straight.

Abashiri (Nkosi Hlophe)

He had earlier found the perfect spot in the running, on the rail within striking distance.

Zechner’s strong driving got him into top gear and from then onward nobody could live with the big bay’s acceleration coupled with his giant stride.

It is no surprise upon studying his pedigree to see he is a close relative of the 2003 Equus Horse Of The Year Yard-Arm (his dam is a half-sister to Yard-Arm) because like the latter he has a giant of a stride.

Abashiri was a genuine Triple Crown contender before Saturday’s race, which was always going to be his toughest hurdle, being a touch sharp for him.

Go Deputy has become unfashionable and only covered two mares last season, both of them Lammerskraal-owned.

This horse might see him back in favour.

A frightening fact is Go Deputy’s progeny improve markedly with age and most only come into their own as four-year-olds.

Abashiri was purchased for R400,000 at the National yearling Sales and the most touching moment of his victory was to witness the excitement of one of the biggest spending couples at the South African Sales, Adriaan and Rika van Vuuren.

Their passion for the game and for their horses was clear for all to see and this one has the potential to take them higher and higher.

By David Thiselton