Gary Alexander – looking to maintain the good form
After his four winners at Turffontein on Saturday, trainer Gary Alexander could be one of the yards to follow at the Vaal today where the first of eight races is off at 12h35.
But is is Mike de Kock’s promising 3yo Marshall who could be the banker, when he contests the Egoli Mile (Non-Black-Type) for three-year-olds over 1600m on the Classic track.
After winning his first two races, this three-year-old son of Vercingetorix started 22-10 favourite to win the Grade 2 Dingaans over 1600m at Turffontein.
Unfortunately, it all went wrong and after suffering an injury during the running of the race he finished 11th, 14 lengths behind Shango. He took some time off and during that break he was gelded.
Marshall returned to racing on 1 February and despite De Kock warning his charge might be in need of a run, the three-year-old ran out a very easy winner, beating stable companion Your Pace Or Mine by two lengths.
With three wins from four starts he sits with a merit rating of 99. But in his first outing, Marshall beat another debutant, Viper Jet, by 0.50 lengths. Based on that run, Sean Tarry’s charge was sent out a 6-10 favourite to win his next start but found Riverstown 4.25 lengths too good.
Today Viper will be receiving 8kgs from De Kock’s charge – that makes things very interesting!
The false rail is set at zero on the back straight to 5,5m on the bend with a 9m spur at the 600m mark
Get your Sporting Post racecard here
Tabnews have provided the undermentioned trainer comments:
- Race 1
Heather Adamson
No 14 Ideal Wolff – Although he is drawn a little wide, I’m expecting him to go very well
- Race 2
Mike Azzie
No 7 Bianca – Ran a nice race on debut and we’re hoping for more improvement
No 11 Royal Reward – Tries further, looking for an improved run
Heather Adamson
No 9 Fort Anne – Hoping for an improved run
Paul Peter
No 4 Saint Marcella – Nicely drawn, can be in the placings
- Race 3
Paul Peter
No 2 We All Chomies – Working well, must be included
- Race 4
Mike Azzie
No 9 The Sash – Has been disappointing, hoping this longer trip could suit
Gary Alexander
No 1 Seeking Gold – Carries top weight but has an each-way chance
Fabian Habib
No 5 Glamorous Scandal – She’s taking on a competitive field but is fit and well and has an each way chance
- Race 5
Mike Azzie
No 10 Tapanzee – He’s been showing improvement at home and I’m hoping that he’s getting back on track.
Gary Alexander
No 2 Brand New Cadillac – He’s coming along nicely and has an each-way chance
Fabian Habib
No 1 Out Of Your League – Has improved a lot and despite top weight, he has a strong each-way chance
Paul Peter
No 7 Gold Griffin – Does his best for Warren Kennedy, include in exotics
- Race 6
Paul Peter
No 1 Pilgrim’s Progress – Big weight, place chance
No 6 Tobefair – She’s coming off a break but is a smart filly and should go close
- Race 7
Mike Azzie
No 10 Seven Patriots – His last run was most disappointing and we’re just hoping to see improvement from him.
Gary Alexander
No 4 Just Kidding – Taking on a competitive field, place chance
- Race 8
Gary Alexander
No 10 Kimberley Green – Needs improvement to feature
Fabian Habib
No 5 City Dancer – Has a place chance in a competitive field
Chris Jonker
No 7 Oyster King – Has a plum draw, can finish close up
