Ghost Rider is licensed to deliver
BiPot looks the right way to play at the Vaal today
The comeback is always stronger than the setback. This is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of apprentice Denis Schwarz’s career.
He fell in January last year and tore the ligaments in his knee which resulted in him being sidelined for six months. He has returned with a bang, though, and recently rode his first four-timer – becoming only the third apprentice in South Africa to ride the Jackpot!
He reunites with Ghost Rider in Race 3 on the Vaal Inside track today, a Maiden Plate over 1200m, and the pair are BiPot banker material.
Sean Tarry’s charge wasn’t disgraced in his last run when beaten 4.50 lengths into fourth by State Trooper.
It was the first time Ghost Rider raced competitively in eight months and that was his first run as a gelding.
Not only will he strip fitter, he is having only his third career start and that he can only spark further improvement.
Mike Azzie-trained Silver Spine could pick up the pieces if Ghost Rider forgets his lines. Silver Spine was fancied on debut but tired late and had to settle for sixth, 6.50 lengths behind Mutrib.
That run suggests the drop in trip will suit him. Expect massive improvement.
Although Silver Spine is carded to get experienced Gavin Lerena in the saddle, she will carry 1.5kg more than Ghost Rider. Boxing the pair in Swingers and Exactas could be profitable.
Following two failed attempts at justifying favouritism, Ouro finally put her best hoof forward and made light work of her foes by skipping to an impressive 4.80-length victory over 1000m at the Vaal in November.
This Paul Peter-trained daughter of Toreador appears well above average and could be better than her current merit rating of 78.
Those looking to go light in the Place Accumulator could do worse than to banker her in Race 8, a FM 68 Handicap over 1200m.