Clive Robinson
Supporters of Gavin Smith-trained filly Ekoria took a shock to the system when the classy three-year-old found rival Peach Daiquiri a bit better last time and will be looking for revenge on Friday on the Polytrack at Fairview.
Peach Daiquiri kept herself unbeaten when backed as if the result was already known, starting a deep-in-the-red favourite, holding Ekoria at bay by a diminishing head.
The Vercingetorix filly was in receipt of 4.5kg that day and will only be receiving 2kg this time.
Peach Daiquiri has room for improvement in this, just her third start, and it could be interesting to see what happens.
It is a pity that this particular race is on the Polytrack as neither of them has raced on this surface.
Ekoria, a winner of three races as a juvenile, will strip fitter for the bang-in-form Smith.
Another plus as far as she is concerned is that JP van der Merwe, who knows the filly best, is back in the irons this time.
Jockey Richard Fourie, if he really is on a Champion Jockey mission, needs to get that ball rolling quickly as Keegan de Melo is well clear presently.
After some disappointing rides last Friday Fourie had an exceptional weekend, booting home many winners, and with a full book of rides at this meeting will be hoping to continue his streak.
The pick of his many rides could be Emily’s Spirit in Race 3, Wildest Dreams in Race 4 and All About Al in Race 7.
Emily’s spirit has been very costly to follow but is long overdue a visit to the winner’s box and in Race 3 she has an ideal opportunity in a weak race.
Wildest Dreams has been consistent on the Polytrack and remains in good form so is likely to contest the finish.
It is a competitive race though and the safer option of a place strike is the better bet.
Trainer Alan Greeff has proven to be a master with recruits to his yard and he has his hands now on the very consistent All About Al.
His first taste of the Polytrack should be interesting and if showing any improvement, he looks the one to be with.
