Punters looking for a profitable Thursday on the Highveld could do worse than keeping a close eye on the Muzi Yeni-Robyn Klaasen combination when a competitive nine-race Vaal programme unfolds on Thursday, 10 September. The partnership has two particularly appealing opportunities early, while two recent course-and-distance winners later on the card offer proven form that bettors should not overlook.
After three thirds and two seconds from his last six starts, Two Tigers looks overdue to break through in Race 2 over 1200m. The three-year-old son of Flower Alley has shown versatility from 1000m to 1450m, but his best efforts have generally come with Yeni in the saddle. In four starts under the diminutive rider, Two Tigers has twice finished second and twice third, making their established partnership a compelling reason to expect a breakthrough. He looks a logical banker in the first leg of the afternoon’s exotics, although insurance may be wise in a competitive contest.
Stable companion Charming Cheetah could complete a quick double for Klaasen and Yeni, giving co-owner Dayalan Chinsammy another reason to smile in Race 3 over the same distance. The New Predator gelding won two of his first three starts and later finished runner-up at Grade 1 level, but failed to score throughout his three-year-old season. He was nevertheless far from disgraced in stronger company and remains capable of rediscovering his winning touch.
Now a four-year-old, Charming Cheetah returns off a career-low merit rating with blinkers refitted and Yeni reunited with him for the first time since partnering him to a respectable fifth in the Grade 2 Senor Santa Stakes over 1160m in April. That combination of a favourable rating, equipment change and proven jockey familiarity makes Charming Cheetah an attractive betting proposition.
Race 8 over 1000m could provide another opportunity to side with a recent winner in Tempranillo. The well-related Querari filly landed a similar course-and-distance contest five weeks ago and, although she carries a three-point penalty, there is enough in her profile to suggest she can cope. First-time blinkers could eke out the improvement required, while the continued partnership with Keagan de Melo is another positive. She need not improve dramatically to make her presence felt again and appeals as a sound inclusion in the exotics.
There is another course-and-distance winner in the finale, where Nkandla Gold bids to prove his Vaal affinity over 1200m is no fluke. His recent win by more than two lengths over this track and trip confirms his appeal despite a six-point penalty. Back at the Vaal, he merits consideration.
Clive Robinson
