In his highly anticipated U.S. debut, ISIVUNGUVUNGU (SAF) demonstrated why he holds hero’s status in his native South Africa with a win in the Da Hoss Stakes at Colonial Downs. It was Virginia Derby Day at the New Kent, Va. track, and the Da Hoss was one of six stakes on the card. Manny Franco took the call for the 5 1/2 furlong turf sprint.

Despite a bit of bumper cars after the break, the pair were well-placed just behind the leaders. Cutting a corner at the top of the stretch, they seized the opening on the rail to take the lead. Holding off a late bid from Nothing Better, Isivunguvungu (SAF) prevailed by a neck.

The 6-year-old son of What A Winter (SAF) – Miss Tweedy (SAF) by Tiger Ridge arrived at our Fair Hill home base in early May to a good bit of fanfare. He has a very large and very enthusiastic following at home, and his connections have kept a close eye on his progress here in the States. Today’s race was just his second start of the year, his last being the Franschhoek Motor Museum Winchester Sprint Cup at Kenilworth on January 6 in which he finished second. He now has seven wins from 16 lifetime starts.

Isivunguvungu (SAF) was bred by Narrow Creek Stud and is owned by Hollywood Syndicate. We’re sure there is quite the celebration among his connections, and we add our sincere Congratulations!