Can Wish List End the 26-Year Filly Drought in the Lucky Fish Cape Derby?

Image: Chase Liebenberg

The Lucky Fish Cape Derby is the final Grade 1 feature of what has been a top-drawer Cape Summer Season. It features an elite field of just eight runners, with Justin Snaith's Wish List looking to become the first filly to win the race in 26 years.

There has been plenty of noise around field sizes of late, with the WSB Cape Town Met also featuring significantly fewer runners than in previous years. However, these elite contests are just: elite contests. They shouldn't be watered down for the sake of field sizes.

Slim Pickings for the Fillies Over the Years

Members of the fairer sex haven't enjoyed the most success in this race over the years. In fact, you have to go back 26 years for the last time a female won this race, with Dog Wood winning in 1999. The only other female winners in this storied race? Taima Bluff (1980), Green Lass (1951), Windlass (1930) and Desert Born (1925).

WISH LIST - already a Grade 1 winner after claiming the Cartier Paddock Stakes - looks like she could become the sixth female winner of the race. She will be piloted by Richard Fourie who replaces stable jockey Andrew Fortune who is recovering from injuries sustained in a fall at Fairview last week.

It's worth noting that Fourie switched from riding NOTE TO SELF after Fortune's fall, driving home the idea that Wish List is indeed Snaith's strongest runner in this field.

Others to Consider

Ante-post favourite HAPPY VERSE is the other Snaith runner in the field. He was hauled in late by STAR MAJOR in the HKJC World Pool Politician Stakes at the end of January. They're at equal weights again, with the latter on offer at generous odds of 4/1.

PAY THE PALACE and BETTER MAN were also involved in the Politician Stakes, finishing 3.15 and 4.15 lengths behind Star Major, with both looking to have place chances here.

On-Course Entertainment

Of course, the bumper 10-race card will be the main attraction at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on the day, but there are plenty of other entertainment on offer on the day.

• LIVE MUSIC - Jarrad Ricketts, Swlwyn & Roy and Simply Strings headline the live music offering on the day.
• FOOD - Cuisine will play a central role on the day. There will be plenty of fresh, locally-sourced seafood on offer from a diverse range of vendors. The distinct flavours of the Cape will be on full display from traditional favourites to modern twists.
• SHOPPING - The trackside market will satisfy all of your shopping needs. It will feature a wide range of local vendors offering a fine selection of unique crafts, fashion and handmade goods.

Entrance is free on the day, with gates set to open at 11:00. Make sure to snag your FREE ticket for what promises to be a wonderful day packed with world-class racing and entertainment.