Trainer Stuart Pettigrew adds an international touch to Tuesday’s 10-race Turffontein meeting with his Irish-bred pair Mission To Mars and Deepone. With most races being open events, punters can expect plenty of value throughout the card.
Mission To Mars boasts an exceptional pedigree as a son of Sea The Stars, one of racing’s all-time greats and the only horse to win the Guineas, Derby and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in the same season.
Although the five-year-old only began his racing career recently, he made an eye-catching debut when finishing second over 1500m at the Vaal Classic track. Drawn widest, he settled more than a dozen lengths off the pace before charging home to be beaten just 0.60 lengths. From gate two in Race 3, a 1600m Maiden Plate, he should enjoy a far better run and, in a modest field, looks the horse to beat and a banker for exotic bets.
Pettigrew’s other Irish import, Deepone, lines up in Race 5, a high-quality Pinnacle Stakes. While 2025 Grade 2 Gauteng Guineas winner Parisian Walkway rates best on official merit ratings, Deepone brings solid Irish form into the race and could make his presence felt despite returning from a lengthy break. The betting market should provide the best guide to his chances, while Money Heist also commands respect on recent form.
There are several attractive value runners on the card, with Play With Fire (Race 7) and Quiet Winter (Race 10) standing out as worthwhile each-way propositions.
Play With Fire represents the in-form Fanie Bronkhorst stable and has been consistently finishing in the placings against stronger opposition. Her merit rating has eased, she benefits from a 2.5kg claiming apprentice, and a favourable draw further strengthens her claims of recording a fourth career victory.
Quiet Winter also appeals after producing a strong late finish over this course and distance two starts ago, storming home from 12th at the 400m mark to finish just 0.80 lengths behind. She looked unlucky not to win that day, while her latest third over 1000m suggested the shorter trip did not suit.
Back over the straight 1160m and against easier opposition, she looks capable of returning to winning form. Champion jockey Gavin Lerena, who has partnered her four times without success, will be hoping to finally break through aboard the mare.
Clive Robinson
