Mardi Gras shortens for Grand Heritage after a driving finish

After his run over 1200m at the Vaal last Thursday when he came from last to run second in an Assessment Plate, Mardi Gras has shortened in to 33-10 for the World Sports Betting Grand Heritage (Non-Black Type) over 1475m at the Vaal on Saturday.

Pietro Mascagni, at 11-2, is the only other runner quoted in single figures.

A number of queries have been received concerning the ride of Mardi Gras and below is an extract from the stipes report of that race.

“When questioned regarding his riding of MARDI GRAS, Jockey G Lerena explained to the Board that his instructions were to drop this gelding in and get cover as he has a tendency to over-race when in the open. At the top of the straight, he elected to track CRIMSON MAGIC (*A Arries) as the kick-back was particularly bad and by slip streaming this horse, it had lessened the impact of the kick-back. Thereafter when he switched his mount out for a run, it hung in from the 300m.

“Trainer J van Vuuren was questioned regarding Jockey Lerena’s ride on MARDI GRAS. He explained to the Board that his instructions to Jockey Lerena was to drop this gelding out in the early part of the race and allow him to run on strongly from the 600m. He further added that he was satisfied with Jockey Lerena’s ride and he has also undertaken to report back to the Stipendiary Board on the well-being of MARDI GRAS on return to stables.

“The Board has adjourned to view the patrol films of this gelding’s previous races.”

Betting: 33-10 Mardi Gras; 11-2 Pietro Mascagni; 12-1 Zouaves; 14-1 Mujallad, Soldier On; 18-1 Rings And Things; 22-1 Tsitsikamma Dance, Irish Pride, Chepardo, Hakeem, Bold Viking; 28-1 Divine Odyssey, Sail For Joy; 35-1 and upwards others.