Lyle to extend jockeys’ log lead
Sirtain, Murray to redeem themselves
There appears to be a lot of value at the Vaal today which points to a big Pick 6 payout. If you’re in search of a banker, look no further than Sally Called in Race 4, a Maiden Plate for fillies and mares over 1200m on the Outside track.
She ran a decent fourth on debut when failing to justify 2-1 favouritism, beaten 5.20 lengths by Captain’s Princess over this course and distance. She showed her inexperience on that occasion, losing a length out the gates. She was also bumped in running so expect massive improvement.
That form line has worked out well. It boasts a follow-up winner and, the runner who beat Sean Tarry’s charge, went on to finish a commendable third behind Ronnie’s Canday in the SA Fillies Nursery (Grade 2) – further strengthening Sally Called’s chances today.
The heavy betting support on debut was clearly a reflection of the work the Captain Al two-year-old produces at home.
Apprentice jockey Lyle Hewitson rides and should extend his lead atop the national jockeys’ log by also winning Race 5, a MR 68 Handicap over 1200m aboard Snow In Seattle for trainer Barend Botes. This four-year-old gelding is the model of consistency – his last four outings comprising two thirds and two victories.
He made great late progress in his latest effort when beaten a diminishing 0.45 into third by Tokyo Drift. Snow In Seattle appears far better than his current merit rating of 66 and should be very hard to peg back.
For Quartets float him and Alex The Great with as many runners as your budget allows in this 14-horse field.
Mike de Kock-trained Sirtain should resume winning ways when he runs in Race 6, a MR 80 Handicap over 1000m. He was extremely unlucky not to complete a hat-trick of wins in his latest effort when beaten 0.30 lengths into second by Alpine Glacier over the course and distance.
Erico Verdonese-trained Copper Jay is far better than his last outing suggests. He led for much of the race lacking a strong finish – beaten 6.20 lengths into third by Rebel’s Champ. Should he come from off the pace, he’ll be the joker in the pack.
Take boxed Swingers and Exactas with the pair.
Hewitson could strike again aboard hattrick hopeful Bockscar in Race 7, a MR 72 Handicap over 1400m for regular boss Sean Tarry.
The lightly raced son of King’s Chapel is unbeaten since returning from a year’s lay-off in which he was gelded, justifying favouritism both times in emphatic style.
He appears well above average and should win.