Runner comments, Vaal and Turffontein

Lucky Fish ambassadors Mike and Mathew de Kock will be sending out four runners this midweek – two at the meeting on the classic track at the Vaal on Tuesday, and two on the inside track at Turffontein on Thursday.

The Ladies Onamission Syndicate’s Calantha (Querari) has top weight in Race 6 over 1200m and faces a tough task against some useful sprinting rivals. But she’s a capable individual, herself, and not out of it on her best form. Mathew de Kock said: “Calantha’s had a bit of a freshen-up after her last run, and she runs well for Jeff Syster. We’re hoping for a decent run in this small field. She is in good form at home, has a few speedy fillies to beat, but is best included.”

Mickaëlle Michel takes the ride on Step On It (Elusive Fort) in Race 9 over 1800m. He needs improvement on his recent form and Mat commented: “He hasn’t been showing much, but his rating is coming down and he drops in class, so we’re hoping he can put up an improved performance here. Quartet chance.”

Bristol Hercules (Lancaster Bomber) was well fancied over 1700m at the Vaal last time, but over-raced and was outpaced by Taegan’s Champ. He’s in Race 3 over 1450m at Turffontein, Thursday, facing perhaps slightly weaker opposition in a Graduation Plate. “He’s doing very well at home, quite versatile and this 1450m should suit him. A bit of a wide draw but he should run well, warrants consideration.”

Buddy Boy (What A Winter, headline photo) goes to post in Race 4 over 1800m. He is coming to hand after being gelded, and will have blinkers fitted. “Hopefully the bit of extra ground and the blinkers can do the trick and he can produce a winning performance,” said Mat.