Thursday’s nine-race meeting at Vaal Racecourse offers several attractive betting opportunities, with the jockey bookings of championship leader Craig Zackey and Marco van Rensburg standing out.
Zackey, closing in on his first National Jockeys’ Championship, looks well placed to strike early aboard Snap Your Fingers in the opener. The Sean Tarry-trained daughter of Futura was a well-supported favourite when taking on winners over 1600m after a promising debut second. Dropping back to 1400m and returning to maiden company should suit, and she appears the day’s first banker.
Van Rensburg has a strong chance to get on the board in Race 4 with Highwayman Harry. The Dianne Stenger-trained son of Hawwaam has produced two runner-up finishes in his last three starts, including a solid effort over this course and distance. With experience and a favourable draw on his side, he looks ready to break through.
Race 5 could provide Zackey with another winner aboard Damova. Joe Soma’s tough seven-year-old mare has an excellent record over the Vaal’s 2400m, with two wins from three starts at the trip. She reunites with Zackey, with whom she has already won three times, and meets Futurewolff on 1kg better terms after finishing behind that rival last time.
One of Zackey’s strongest rides may come in Race 6 on Ringa Ringa Roses. The Lucky Houdalakis-trained filly has been admirably consistent and now steps up to 1600m, a move that looks likely to bring out further improvement. This is her peak run after a rest and she should be hard to beat if seeing out the extra distance.
Van Rensburg’s later rides also warrant respect. In Race 7, Falconfly returns from a 10-week break after an impressive front-running victory over 1800m. Despite a seven-point penalty, the lightly raced filly still appears progressive and can continue her rise.
The final race sees Van Rensburg partner Golden Aspen, a mare he knows exceptionally well. The pair have combined for eight wins and numerous placings. Dropping in class off a slightly lower mark, the Corne Spies-trained mare looks capable of finishing the meeting on a winning note.
With Zackey and Van Rensburg holding powerful books, Thursday’s Vaal card should provide punters with plenty of opportunities.
Clive Robinson
