Graham Motion at the 2024 Breeders Cup. Image: Candiese Lenferna
South African-bred star One Stripe is set to represent his country with distinction in the Grade 1 FanDuel Breeders’ Cup Mile at Del Mar this Saturday, under the care of respected U.S. conditioner Graham Motion. The Drakenstein Stud-bred son of One World (SAF) out of Silver Stripe (Silvano), races in the yellow-and-purple star silks of Hollywood Racing and Rikesh Sewgoolam, and will be partnered by Juan Hernandez. This year marks a “take two” for Motion and South African connections, after he saddled Beach Bomb (SAF) and Isivunguvungu (SAF) at last year’s Breeders’ Cup, the latter for Hollywood Racing.
“You do feel a certain responsibility for the South Africans because it’s a big deal for them,” said Motion. “I do feel like we are representing them, and I know how important it is for them. It’s been uplifting for our stable. It’s a new experience in our stable to have these horses, and I love international racing.”
A dual Grade 1 winner in his native country after victories in the Cape Guineas and L’Ormarins King’s Plate earlier this year, One Stripe made his North American debut in the Woodbine Mile (G1) on 13 September, finishing a credible fifth.
“I picked a really difficult race for him to run in last time for his first North American start,” Motion explained. “He had to give weight to everybody, so he was really up against it. I think he’s really come on since that race – he really needed the race. The timing was perfect, it just wasn’t the ideal spot.”
Since arriving in California, One Stripe has impressed his connections with his work ethic and temperament.
“He’s been a pleasure to be around,” Motion added. “For a newly turned four-year-old colt, he’s got a good disposition and he’s a good eater. It’s going to be a tall order for him, but I think he’s going to be a really nice horse. He hasn’t done much wrong.”
One Stripe galloped over the turf on Wednesday morning at Del Mar, with his final gallop to be confirmed before raceday. He will face a truly international field, with contenders representing five continents. South African breeders will be watching with pride as One Stripe steps onto one of the sport’s grandest world stages, carrying the flag for our country’s Thoroughbred industry.
One Stripe after winning the L’Ormarins Kings Plate earlier this year, additionally winning the Breeders Cup Win and You’re In Challenge Series. Graham Motion was on course for the victory. Image: Candiese Lenferna
