Lloyd and Schofield chase fathers’ unfinished Durban July dream

Three Australian-based jockeys will return to South Africa this weekend chasing victory in the country’s biggest race, the Durban July, with Chad Schofield and Zac Lloyd hoping to achieve what their famous fathers never could.

As the Australian winter sets in three jockeys will head “home” to South Africa for the Durban July on Saturday.

Chad Schofield and Mark du Plessis will join Zac Lloyd in chasing their ultimate Africa dream in South Africa’s biggest race.

It holds a special place for Schofield and Lloyd, who remember watching their fathers, Glyn and Jeff, try to win July without success as kids, which means The July is at the top of their list of races to win.

“I got offered a number of rides but I’m very happy to be on King Pelles, which is one of the best horses in South Africa,” Schofield said.

“His form is over longer trips, but they have kept him fresh to be right for the 2200m.

“I grew up there, and it’s the biggest race in Africa. I have always wanted to win it.

“I know Zac is the same because either of our dads were able to win it, so it would give us bragging rights on them if one of us can win on Saturday.”

King Pelles is the top weight with 59kg and won the Gold Vase at 3000m on July day last year, and followed up by winning the Durban Gold Cup at two miles.

“It is a great opportunity to win a big race in another country, and I have half a dozen other rides on the day, so hopefully there is a winner there,” Schofield said.

“I was talking to Mark about it on Saturday and we are both excited to be riding at Greyville next weekend.”

Du Plessis rides I Salute You for Peter Muscutt, who spent time in Sydney with Chris Waller and David Payne, while Lloyd will ride Regulation at 52kg, which is considered one of the leading lightweight hopes.

Lloyd took a short break after his Royal Ascot win and a successful stint in England, and he has been looking forward to riding in The July.

“It is a race I grew up wanting to ride, and to get a ride in it is fantastic,” Lloyd said.

“I have been trying to get a ride in The July for the past couple of years, and this year it has happened.

“Dad could never win it, so it would be great if I could go over there and come home with the trophy.”