We have just three runners to follow this week and that starts on Monday 25th February 2019, with Whiteleaf Hills who lines up in the 3rd race at Fairview Racecourse. Storm Ruler dons our colours at Scottsville on Wednesday. Then on Thursday 28th February 2019, Setablaze looks to go one better in the 5th race at the Vaal. See more here.
Monday 25th February 2019
Fairview Poly Track
Race 3 – 14:00
1900m – Novice Plate
3 – Whiteleaf Hills
Trainer: Gavin Smith
Jockey: Muzi Yeni
Wgt: 59.5kg
Draw: 7(12)
Current Betting: 11/2
He is definitely going the right way on the Poly in PE and one can almost put a line through his last effort as things didn’t go his way. There was no pace on in his latest effort and that is something he will need today, as he loves coming from well off the pace. We have no doubts about the trip and the field looks to have a few handy front runners which should provide an steady pace for Whiteleaf Hills. If that’s the case, expect him to see him charging home late. Gavin Smith is very happy with his prep coming into this run and makes him a huge runner.
Winning Form Comment: Slow pace cost him last time, highly capable in this company.
27 February 2019
Scottsville Racecourse
Race 6 – 16:05
2400m – MR 79 Handicap
8 – Storm Ruler
Trainer: Alyson Wright
Jockey: Ashton Arries
Wgt: 52.2kg
Draw: 6
Current Betting: 8/1
He is in some solid form lately and he is currently running off a competitive rating. He is a consistent staying type and we believe he still has a win or two left in the tank. Today presents a nice test for him, in stronger company than he has recently faced. However, he has a handy galloping weight and we feel he should be involved in the finish. We give him a good place chance.
Winning Form Comment: Some good recent form, more to do at the weights but won only C&D showing.
Thursday 28th February 2019
Vaal Turf
Race 5 – 14:10
1400m – Maiden Plate
4 – Setablaze
Trainer: Clinton Binda
Jockey: Kabelo Matsunyane (-2.5kg)
Wgt: 60.0
Draw: 15(18)
Predicted Betting: 20/1
He comes into this race on the back of his career best effort last Thursday, when facing major traffic issues in the latter stages. Once clear, he flew up for second and with this run offering an extra furlong, he cannot be discounted. This run has come a little close to his last effort, so we will make a decision on Wednesday as to whether or not he lines up in this event but if he does go ahead with the run it will be because we feel he can win it.
Winning Form Comment: Eye-catching career best run on 21/02. Should enjoy the extra furlong.