Mrs Geriatrix and Main Defender shine at thrilling Betway Spring Challenge Day

Turffontein witnessed a spectacular showdown on October 7 as Tony Peter’s Main Defender and superstar Mrs Geriatrix left an indelible mark on the Betway Spring Challenge Day.

The event marked the conclusion of the Betway Spring Series and set the stage for the highly anticipated R5-million Betway Summer Cup on November 25.

The R400 000 Bloodstock SA Sales Cup for fillies took center stage and delivered a breathtaking spectacle. Mrs Geriatrix, the three-year-old filly under the guidance of trainer Sean Tarry, entered the race on an impressive five-race winning streak.

However, she faced stiff competition from White Pearl, trained by Mike de Kock. The two fillies engaged in a thrilling battle down the stretch, with jockey Richard Fourie timing his move to perfection, securing victory for Mrs Geriatrix in a photo finish.

The grand finale of the Highveld Spring Season transformed the Big T racecourse into a hub of family fun and excitement. The electrifying atmosphere was fueled by the cheers of passionate punters and the excitement of a captivating Betway Spring Challenge race day.

Families enjoyed a day filled with exceptional entertainment, including activities for children, delectable culinary options, and sensational horse racing under the Highveld sun.

The Gr2 Betway Joburg Spring Fillies and Mares Challenge showcased the brilliance of Feather Boa, guided by jockey Gavin Lerena, as they claimed victory in a performance that had racegoers on their feet.

The Gr2 Betway Joburg Spring Challenge main race proved equally exhilarating, with Main Defender, ridden by the talented Kabelo Matsunyane, dominating the competition to secure victory in the R550 000 main race by an impressive five lengths. Matsunyane showcased his exceptional skills for the Tony Peter stable, with Tarry’s Thunderstruck finishing as the runner-up.

Throughout the Betway Spring Series, spectators were treated to a display of skill and determination by both horse and jockey, underscoring the exceptional talent within the racing community.

Punters and onlookers were enthralled by the nail-biting finishes and heart-pounding moments that defined the Betway Spring Challenge, ensuring it was an unforgettable experience for all in attendance at Turffontein.

Fundi Sithebe, CEO of 4Racing, said, “The Betway Joburg Spring Challenge was a thrilling racing event for the whole family. Betway has been a phenomenal partner for 4Racing and the horseracing community, and it was fantastic to see so many people from diverse backgrounds enjoying a day at the races in typically Joburg style.

“As the Betway Spring Series concluded, anticipation is now building for the Betway Summer Cup, featuring an impressive R5 million prize pool,” said Sithebe.

The Highveld feature race season continues with the Allied Steelrode on A Mission Charity Mile, scheduled for Saturday, October 28, at Turffontein Racecourse, with Betway as the proud sponsor of the Gr3 Graham Beck Stakes on the day.

Full list of winners on Betway Joburg Spring Challenge Race Day:

Race 1: Betway tote rewards Club Maiden Plate

• Horse: Copper Mist

• Jockey: Calvin Habib

Race 2: Betway Insurebet Maiden Plate

• Horse: Gimme A Nother

• Jockey: Juan Paul Van Der Merwe

Race 3: Bloodstock SA Sales Cup

• Horse: Mrs Geriatrix

• Jockey: Richard Fourie

Race 4: Bloodstock SA Sales Cup

• Horse: Purple Pitcher

• Jockey: Kabelo Matsunyane

Race 5: Betway Joburg Spring Fillies and Mares Challenge

• Horse: Feather Boa

• Jockey: Gavin Lerena

Race 6: Betway Joburg Spring Challenge

• Horse: Main Defender

• Jockey: Kabelo Matsunyane

Race 7: Betway Aviator Pinnacle Stakes

• Horse: Mover and Shaker

• Jockey: S’manga Khumalo

Race 8: Betway Back The Boks Fm 80 Handicap

• Horse: My Soul Mate

• Jockey: Muzi Yeni

Race 9: Betway We Pay Your Tax On Horse Racing Wins Mr 80 Handicap

• Horse: Youcanthurrylove

• Jockey: Dennis Schwarz