The rapid grass growth normally triggered by the arrival of spring has been stunted at the Vaal this year by recent cold snaps coupled with a severe frost.
The net result is that in spite of the best efforts of the track staff, there is excessive wear and tear in several sections of the Vaal Classic course, particularly on the turn.
Phumelela’s national track manager Dean Diedericks said that the race meeting at the track this Thursday may be able to take place as scheduled. “The current warmer weather will stimulate grass growth dramatically and by moving the false rail to zero it may be possible to race there on Thursday.”
Track staff, in conjunction with trainers, jockeys and stipendiary stewards, will inspect the track today and a decision will then be made whether the meeting at the venue can go ahead.
If the surface is deemed unsuitable for racing, the meeting will be switched to the Turffontein inside track.
-Tabnews
