Polytrack racing is back in full swing at Fairview on Friday and there are three runners at this meeting who could shine.
Four-year-old filly Smashing has been consistent since joining trainer Alan Greeff and should go close to winning Race 6, a MR 70 Handicap for fillies and mares over 1000m. Smashing has won two of her seven starts for Greeff, both victories coming under jockey Richard Fourie, who has ridden her four times. He is back aboard after Andrew Fortune finished an unlucky third on her last time out.
Smashing was caught wide that day, but this is unlikely to happen again as she jumps from pole position. She could very well make all the running.
She is owned by Hollywood Racing as is her main danger, Sweet Julia, who actually finished ahead of Smashing last time. However, Sweet Julia is badly drawn on this occasion, which could tip the scales in Smashing’s favour.
Earlier on the card, Fourie could make amends for supporters of Wild Fig, who lines up in Race 3, a Maiden Plate over 1400m. This colt attempted to make all the running last time out and set a very fast pace.
He is likely to get a more patient ride this time and looks the one to beat.
Trainer Justin Snaith, who won the final race last Friday with the well-backed Elsinore, can strike again this week with Beer With The Boys in Race 8, a MR 66 Handicap over 2000m. This Silvano gelding has not been beaten by far in handicaps in the Western Cape and could get it right now that he is trying the Polytrack.
Clive Robinson
