Clive Robinson
With all eight races at Turffontein on Thursday 26 January reserved for maidens, it is not only a stiff test for bettors, but also a day of reckoning for the handicapper, as all the races will be run under plate conditions.
Of course, not all the horses in action have an official merit rating, like juveniles, first-timers and runners with less than three runs under the belt. But in general, punters will be relying heavily on the ratings to help them make a final decision in a number of the events.
The performance of the highest rated runners will, in a way, be a report card for the handicapper’s assessment.
In Race 4, over 1450m, the Joe Soma-trained Brave Viking boasts the highest rating at 79 and this William Longsword-gelding is definitely the one to beat.
His last outing saw him run out of steam in the dying stages of the race, but he was still the second fastest finisher over the last 400m. With improved fitness, he should stay all the way this time round. Unfortunately, his task is made more difficult by the wide draw.
If he fluffs his lines, Raptor Island (MR73) is most likely to take advantage.
His first run on the Highveld for new trainer Tony Peter saw him set the pace and, although being caught, he stayed on for third.
In Race 5, a Maiden Plate over 1800m, the Lucky Houdalakis’ Battleground (MR76) is the form-runner, and thoroughly deserves the highest rating of the field.
His three consecutive runner-up finishes is a testament to his grit while his consistency is surely to be rewarded.
His biggest threat looks to be Circus Lights (MR69) from the stable of Grant Maroun. Although he tries the distance for the first time, his last run over 1600m suggests he will relish the extra, as he was slow out the gates but never let up in his efforts to catch up with the pack. That run saw him beaten just 2.5-lengths by Black Lightning.
With Race 6, also over 1800m, reserved for fillies and mares, Robyn Klaasen’s Crusade-filly Rosslyne (MR73) gets the nod. She finished ahead of re-opposing On The Guest List (MR69) three runs back when racing fresh and with further improvement should re-affirm that form with Mike de Kock’s charge.
Expect a match race between the two mentioned as the rest of the field looks rather weak.
Mighty Goddess (MR78) looks the mightiest in the lucky last, which will be contested over 1450m.
A consistent performer, trainer Billy Ruiters must be equally proud and frustrated with this filly as she has been knocking and knocking and knocking…
Overdue a maiden victory is probably the understatement of the year and from pole position she really should have no excuses this time round.
