Mark Khan in line to ride another winner Miss Khalifa the real star
We have had Pick 6 carryovers galore on the Highveld of late, but it appears today’s Vaal Pick 6 is catchable – so get on!
If you’re in search of a banker look no further than Tobie Spies-trained Miss Khalifa in the first leg – Race 3, a Fillies Juvenile Plate over 1000m on the Outside track. She made a mockery of her peers on debut, justifying 11-10 favouritism in cruising to a three-length triumph at Turffontein.
That form line boasts a follow-up winner and a runner-up, further strengthening her case.
The speedy daughter of Sail From Seattle has tons of ability and is currently trading at 1-1 a win. A loss is unlikely, despite the fact that she is returning from 152-day stint off the racetrack.
“She’s a very good filly,” commented Spies, who has recruited National Jockeys’ Championship log leader Lyle Hewitson to ride.
“Miss Khalifa could be green, but I’m expecting a good run,” he added.
For Swingers and Exactas, add in Vivir, a Philanthropist filly whose Grade 1 Allan Robertson Championship performance wasn’t a true reflection of her ability. She hung in that day and, considering she was running against some of the best sprinters the country has to offer, she wasn’t disgraced, beaten 5.10 lengths into fifth by superstar Mighty High.
Her style of running suggests she will be better suited to the minimum trip. Expect massive improvement from the Ormond Ferraris charge.
For a bit of value, take an Eachway bet on Erico Verdonese-trained Star Of Joburg in Race 7, a MR 80 Handicap over 1400m. This Horse Chestnut gelding is the model of consistency. In fact, he has only missed the first four once in seven career outings – finishing eighth in his latest effort when beaten 4.75 lengths by Vodacom Durban July hopeful Yakeen, who followed up with a great win in the Jubilee Handicap (Grade 3).
In Star Of Joburg’s defence, he had to overcome a wide barrier draw, lost a length at the start and found 1600m a touch too far. He has proven most lethal over shorter and will be attempting to maintain his unblemished record over 1400m with Mark Khan is in the irons.
Trainer Mike de Kock should saddle the Exacta/Swinger in Race 2, a Juvenile Plate over 1000m with Hit The Green (Muzi Yeni) and debutant What A Captain (Randall Simons).
Keep an eye on the betting as riding arrangements suggest that the latter makes most appeal. Hit The Green finished a disappointing two-from-last in the Grade 2 SA Nursery, beaten 10 lengths by William The Silent.