Get ready for a thrilling day of racing action at The Vaal this Thursday, featuring a nine-race card that kicks off at noon.
Track Details: The turf track boasts a 3000m oval circuit, with races up to 1600m on the straight course. Beyond 1600m, expect a clockwise round turn with a 1000m run-in. Keep an eye out for low-number draws, which are slightly favored in 1700m races.
Weather Watch: Partly cloudy skies with a 46% chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius and a North Westerly cross/headwind blowing at speeds of 11-35 km/h. Sunset is at 18:02.
Going: The track condition is good, with a Pen reading of 22.
False Rail: Inside rail will be zero back straight to 12m on the bend, with a 12m spur at the 600m mark. Outside rail will be set at zero.
VAAL Schedule: Nine races starting from 12:00 until 4:40.
Best Bets
Race 3 Crepuscolo
F P Habib / K A Brewer
Crepuscolo, ran on well when third behind the up and coming Marauding Horde over 2000m last time, will go close if staying the 2800m. Returns to the Vaal for the 1st time since he won here over 140om.
Race 5 Elegant Ice
M N Houdalakis / C Zackey
Elegant Ice, steps up to 1400 after showing consistent form but falling short over sprint trips. Jockey bookings suggests she is the stable’s preferred runner.
Race 7 Miss Hannigan
F P Habib / S Khumalo
Miss Hannigan, ran very well last time after switching from the Soma yard to the Habib yard, her form is good enough to claim her second win today. Empress game and Northern Kitten to give her most to think about.
Race 8 Kinshin Sha
M N Houdalakis / C Zackey
Has good for over 1000m, ran very well last time after being well supported in the betting, and can make amends today.
