Wish List seeks to break 26-year drought for fillies in Cape Derby at Kenilworth

On Saturday, Lucky Fish Cape Derby will draw the curtain on the Cape Summer Season, drawing attention not only for the racing excellence it promises but also for the historical significance of one particular contender, Wish List.

With just eight runners lining up for the prestigious Grade 1 race, the stakes are high as this filly attempts to achieve what so many have failed to do over the past few decades: win the Cape Derby.

Set to unfold at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth at 4 pm, the race features a compelling narrative, not least because the filly Wish List is a leading contender. Traditionally, the Derby has posed a daunting challenge for female competitors.

The last filly to triumph was Dog Wood back in 1999, with other significant victories by fillies occurring even further back in time — Taima Bluff in 1980, and Green Lass before that in 1951. In fact, the only filly who tasted victory before Desert Storm in 1930 was a notable rarity in the event’s storied history.

Yet hope prevails that Wish List can change the narrative 26 years later. This impressive filly is a progeny of acclaimed racehorse Legislate, who himself won the Cape Derby in 2014.

Her rising-star status was reflected in a remarkable third-place finish in the World Sports Betting Cape Fillies Guineas Grade 1, followed by a tenacious victory in the Cartier Paddock Stakes Grade 1.

In that race, Wish List showcased her undeniable prowess, cutting through the inside rail with confidence to outpace formidable rivals like Reet Petite and seasoned competitors such as Rainbow Lorikeet and Double Grand Slam.

However, the path to victory won’t be without obstacles. Competing against her are capable stablemates from the Snaith Racing yard, Note To Self, and Happy Verse. Both have shown promise heading into the Derby, with Note To Self recently dominating less competitive foes, putting on a visually impressive performance that suggests it is ready for tougher battles ahead.

An interesting twist in the tale surrounds Wish List’s jockey situation. Originally piloted by stable rider Andrew Fortune, a recent unfortunate fall has necessitated a change, and Richard Fourie has stepped in. He transfers Note To Self to Wish List, a vote of confidence from the stable that heightens expectations for her chances.

As the clock ticks down to race time, all eyes will be on Wish List. Will she break the 26-year drought for fillies in the Derby and add her name to an illustrious list of past winners?

The allure of the Lucky Fish Cape Derby guarantees a captivating afternoon of racing, with history on the line and a determined filly aiming to make her mark.