'On the route out I witnessed a scene best described as pandemonium'

The late Julian Wilson had the right idea. For many years, BBC racing’s frontman would over-winter in South Africa and his offerings could sometimes be seen in this very publication.

Out in the Cape Town sunshine not long after getting off my flight, the thought of spending more than a few days sounded rather appealing. I could provide readers with important missives from the Mike de Kock yard, perhaps even file some tips from Greyville or Turffontein whenever our domestic racing was frozen off. Should they need me, I could still be back in time for that Cheltenham thing everyone talks about.

Such fantasies would have to wait as the purpose of the visit was to report on the Cape Premier Yearling Sale, back under new ownership in the city’s convention centre.