It is back to the turf this Friday thankfully and we have big fields for this meeting at Fairview but we should get big runs out of Joy And Peace in Race 4 and Jet Bund in Race 2.
Trainer Alan Greeff does not raid other provinces often and he has a decent record when doing so and it was surprising that Joy And Peace did not make the frame at Kenilworth.
The Master Of My Fate filly finished fifth, 4.05 lengths behind Philosophise but she did make good late progress that day and seemed to indicate that she is crying out for further. But she has won sprints and the 1400m on the turf will suit her fine.
Joy And Peace has caught the eye a couple of times this season with some flattering runs and some disappointments.
Joy and Peace chased home stable star Lunar Halo finishing third in May and June and impressed when winning on the Polytrack in November.
Her disappointing runs came in September when failing twice as a short-priced favourite.
Jockey Richard Fourie has been aboard her for both of her wins and has ridden her four times. He would have worked out by now what is best for her and she could be the banker for the meeting.
Earlier on this difficult card it is rival trainer Gavin Smith that could strike early with Jet Bund.
This Coup De Grace gelding showed promise on his local debut when runner-up behind a well ridden Swiftwinged and could go one better this time.
Jet Bund was on the Polytrack last time out but performed just as well on the turf in Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Jockey S’manga Khumalo retains the ride.
Over the years one has always looks forward to the first juvenile race of the new season and that comes up in Race 1. This particular race has been dominated by trainers Greeff and Smith.
Both have runners carded for the race with Smith having two colts and Greeff a filly.
Anuschka’s World seems the preferred Smith runner but he will be challenged by the New Predator filly Eat Pray Love.
Clive Robinson
