The National Jockeys’ Championship is increasingly becoming a one-horse race, with Craig Zackey holding a commanding lead of 215 winners, 46 clear of defending champion Richard Fourie. Thursday’s eight-race meeting at Vaal Racecourse presents another excellent opportunity for Zackey to extend that advantage.
Zackey’s first standout ride comes in Race 3 aboard Princess Of All, a filly who has repeatedly threatened to win without delivering. Trained by Lucky Houdalakis, she has finished second in two of her last three starts, including over this course and distance. Against modest opposition over 1000m, she appears to have every chance to finally break through.
Race 7 features one of the strongest bets on the card in Dimako’s Jet. The lightly raced daughter of Ideal World returns from a 14-week break after two consecutive wins over 1800m, including a decisive course-and-distance success. Blinkers have transformed her, and despite a four-point ratings increase, she still appears ahead of the handicapper. Trainer Weichong Marwing has placed her carefully, and Zackey looks set to complete at least a double.
While Zackey dominates the title race, Jeffrey Syster could provide punters with attractive value.
In Race 4, veteran sprinter Jet Cat appeals as a solid each-way prospect. The 10-year-old remains competitive and was far from disgraced when fourth over the same course and distance last time. Racing off the same mark, another honest effort could see him in the finish once more.
Syster’s strongest winning opportunity may come in the final race aboard Scarlet O’Hara. The Stuart Pettigrew-trained filly caused a surprise when winning her maiden at 25-1, and subsequent runs suggest that success was no fluke. She has held her own in stronger company and now drops in class over 1800m off a reduced rating, making her a major contender.
Although Thursday’s Vaal meeting lacks feature-race glamour, it offers several appealing betting opportunities. Yet the main storyline remains Zackey’s relentless pursuit of a first national title. With momentum firmly on his side and a powerful book of rides, he looks well placed to tighten his grip on the championship even further.
Clive Robinson
