The Vaal Classic track hosts a competitive nine-race programme on Thursday, but there appear to be several solid betting opportunities, with leading jockeys Craig Zackey and Gavin Lerena both holding strong chances of doubles.
The meeting opens with what looks an ideal opportunity for Molten Rock to finally break her maiden. The Johan Janse van Vuuren-trained daughter of Erupt has improved steadily with racing, finishing fourth in a strong maiden before following up with a creditable third against another competitive field. Her recent form over 1000m stands out in this company and she sets the benchmark in Race 1.
Zackey could strike early in Race 2 aboard Snap Your Fingers, who is worth another chance after disappointing as a beaten favourite against winners last time. That effort was below expectations, but she now returns to maiden company where her debut form remains among the strongest in the field. Sean Tarry’s well-bred daughter of Futura has shown clear ability and a return to her first-run performance should make her hard to beat over 1500m.
The middle section of the card contains several competitive handicaps, but Zackey’s strongest ride may come in Race 6 aboard the ultra-consistent Father Christmas. The Tony Peter-trained son of Gimmethegreenlight has thrived since relocating to the Highveld and has become one of the most reliable performers in his division. Zackey has partnered him three times for two wins and a second, highlighting their strong partnership.
Father Christmas scored impressively over the same 1450m trip on Turffontein’s Inside track before finishing a respectable fourth on the Greyville Polytrack. Returning to a distance and surface that clearly suit him, he looks capable of returning to winning ways and completing a double for Zackey.
Gavin Lerena also has strong claims later on the card, particularly in Race 7 aboard Winds Of Grace. The Mike Azzie-trained gelding had been threatening to win before finally breaking through over 1450m at Turffontein last month. The manner of that victory suggested there is still more improvement to come.
Although the handicapper has raised him three points, the penalty may not be enough to stop his progress. With Lerena taking the ride, confidence is boosted further and another bold performance looks likely.
While the card features several tricky contests, Molten Rock, Snap Your Fingers, Father Christmas, and Winds Of Grace stand out as some of the stronger betting propositions and could provide a straightforward path for punters looking to navigate Thursday’s Vaal meeting.
Clive Robinson
