Gavin Lerena looks the jockey to follow when punters turn their attention to Turffontein’s Inside track on Saturday, 5 September, with the experienced rider holding several live chances on an eight-race Highveld programme.
Lerena could get the ball rolling aboard Celtic Manor in Race 1 over 1450m. The Candice and Tammy Dawson-trained runner has the form and experience to make his presence felt, but a 90-day absence is a concern. Empress Of Peace arrives race-fit and could have the edge if Celtic Manor needs the run.
Race 2 presents Lerena with a stronger opportunity aboard Uncle Bob over 1800m. The Fanie Bronkhorst-trained three-year-old has finished runner-up in each of his last three starts, all under Champion Jockey Craig Zackey, and was again second over this distance just 17 days ago. The son of Heavenly Blue needs little improvement, if any, to finally break through and looks one of the day’s more reliable betting propositions.
Sword Of Light gives Lerena another winning chance in Race 3 over 1800m. The lightly raced filly finished second over 1600m last time, making strong late progress from the rear to get within striking distance. The extra 200m should suit her, and this Lucky Houdalakis-trained daughter of William Longsword could prove hard to beat if she builds on that performance.
In Race 5, Lerena partners Winds Of Grace, who has a compelling case for redemption. The Mike Azzie-trained five-year-old recorded only the second unplaced finish of her 21-race career when finishing down the field over 1400m on the Standside track six weeks ago. She had legitimate excuses, having been bumped at the start before being found distressed by the on-course veterinarian.
A return to the tighter Inside track over 1450m could spark a rebound. The consistent daughter of Act Of War has never been afraid to tackle the boys and boasts an outstanding course record: one win, five seconds and two minor placings from eight Inside-track appearances. In other words, she has finished in the first three in all eight attempts, a statistic punters should not overlook.
The value play could come in the finale, where Stoneywood has a strong chance to complete a double for Houdalakis and owner David Shawe over 1200m. The well-related sprinter, a full-brother to Grade 1 Cape Flying Championship winner Dyce, showed renewed form when second in a similar 1160m contest last time.
He returns off the same mark and retains apprentice Jacey Botes, whose 2.5kg claim could make a significant difference. A repeat of his latest effort should see Stoneywood firmly in contention.
Lerena’s rides provide the obvious starting point, with Uncle Bob and Sword Of Light the stronger win candidates, Winds Of Grace the bounce-back banker and Stoneywood the value closer.
Clive Robinson
