Punters looking for a stable to build around at the Vaal Classic on Thursday need look no further than Tony Peter, whose powerful arsenal at the nine-race meeting presents a realistic chance of a four-timer.
Astrophile can get the ball rolling in Race 1 over 1000m. A daughter of Heavenly Blue, she showed plenty on debut but failed to reproduce that effort when beaten favourite in a Work Riders race last time, although there were valid excuses for that defeat. With leading work rider Phenisile Mongqawa retaining the ride, a return to her debut form could see her make amends.
One State looks another strong Peter-trained proposition in Race 5 over 1600m. The well-bred One World gelding confirmed his race-by-race progress by opening his account in emphatic fashion from the front over 1700m, and Muzi Yeni is back aboard on handicap debut. Drawn ideally in pole position, he should be able to dictate matters again and remains open to considerable improvement. He is one to follow.
American Beauty could then keep the Peter bandwagon rolling in Race 7. This daughter of The United States has flourished since joining the stable, winning twice and finishing second twice in her last four starts. Her latest runner-up finish came in stronger company, and a repeat of that performance should be good enough to see her return to the winner’s enclosure. Kabelo Matsunyane has developed a formidable association with the yard and looks the right man to make the most of the opportunity.
Blindfire completes the Peter-attack in Race 9 over 1200m and could provide the knockout blow. She finished second at this level against the boys last time and competes off the same mark, so there is little reason to expect anything less than another competitive showing.
Clive Robinson
