Thursday’s nine-race Turffontein Inside track meeting (13 November) promises competitive action, but much of the focus will be on Craig Zackey, who boasts a strong book of rides and could easily land multiple winners.
His first standout mount comes in Race 3, a 2600m Classified Stakes, aboard Damova for trainer Joe Soma. The seven-year-old mare thrives under Zackey, with two wins and a third from four rides together. Her recent third over 2000m in stronger company confirmed her form, and the return to a longer trip against slightly easier rivals makes her excellent value.
In Race 6, Zackey partners After Hours, a tough eight-year-old trained by St John Gray, who makes his 100th career start. He recently scored over this course and distance and remains well handicapped despite a small penalty. Ideally drawn in gate 2, he could celebrate his milestone with another win.
Zackey’s best closing chance comes in Race 9 with Maverick Queen from Sean Tarry’s powerful stable. The Captain Of All filly won here two runs back, then ran a solid third against males. Dropping back into fillies-only company off the same mark, she looks a major contender to end the day on a high.
Elsewhere, Gavin Lerena could feature with Calida in Race 7 for the Marwing yard. The consistent gelding ran an encouraging fourth last time after a layoff and is ready to strike.
Meanwhile, Rachel Wall in Race 8 for Tony Peter looks a filly on the rise. She impressed when winning over 1200m on her comeback and seems capable of defying her penalty. Punters should keep her onside.
Clive Robinson
