The project to uplift the turf, level the undulations from the 600m mark, replant grass and widen the pull-up area on the Turffontein Inside track has been completed with racing set to resume on Monday, 2 April.
Despite being hampered by heavy rains and colder soil temperatures not conducive to grass growth, Tabnews reports that the track staff must be lauded for working around the clock to ensure that the track would be ready.
Gallops were held on Wednesday 28 March to evaluate the track’s readiness for racing and the morning air was punctuated by expectant track staff and curious onlookers.
Favourable comments from the riders and trainers involved post the gallops drew whoops of delight from track management and staff, buoyant in the knowledge that this overly ambitious project had been successfully completed within the restricted time frame. So, it’s all systems go for racing on Monday, 2 April.
Whilst this project was underway, the Turffontein Standside track due to extended periods of wet weather and softer underfoot conditions, was subject to increased wear and tear, experiencing slower divot recovery grass growth.
Whilst the Inside and Outside Tracks at the Vaal have been in continuous use, due consideration will be given to rail configurations at declaration stage in an endeavour to accommodate larger fields of up to a maximum of 20 runners, should the need arise.
