Jockeys ready for the showcase
A total of 102 initial nominees were received and the interest in this event, which could see a full field of 28-runners.
There was no shortage of interest when it came to entering runners for the inaugural running of The Grand Heritage, sponsored by World Sports Betting, at the Vaal Racecourse on Saturday October 1.
A total of 102 initial nominees were received and the interest in this event, which could see a full field of 28-runners over the 1 475m straight, may have something to do with the R750 000 stake on offer.
The idea to expand field sizes on the day, bearing in mind that there’s a possibility that three other races on the same card could host 28 horses, means that trainers might have to cast their nets a bit wider to engage the services of jockeys.
But given that The Grand Heritage day is a standalone meeting, there’s a double header the following day with Scottsville and Durbanville racing, there shouldn’t be any problems finding high-quality horsemen.
“I don’t think so. It’s a decent stake so I don’t think trainers will have a problem trying to find jockeys wanting to ride,” said Tex Lerena, chairman of the South African Jockey’s Association.
“On the big days we’re used to having 18 to 20 runners in races during a meeting so finding a few extra riders shouldn’t be a hassle.”
Depending on the complexion of the final field there may be an increased need for a few lightweight jockeys given the conditions of the race with runners ceded into three tiers. Those in tier one will be allocated 57kg or more, tier two will shoulder 53kg to 56.5kg and the third tier will have 50kg to a maximum of 52.5kg.
“We’ve got a lot of lightweight jocks around if needs be,” said Lerena.
If one looks at the numbers there are 77 jockeys and 21 apprentices in South Africa at the moment, as per The National Horseracing Authority’s website, which means that around 30 percent of South Africa’s riders could be in action on the day.
Gates open at 10:00. Entry is free of charge and ample parking will be provided. Not to miss is all the entertainment on the day as well as a big-screen test match between the Springboks and the Australia.
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