Vaal Tips on January 16th - Best Bets and Predictions

MOUNTAIN HIGH was a beaten odds-on favourite over this C&D last time. She raced from a prominent position but found one too good in the form of Kalikaa. She was reported to have cast a shoe in running which didn’t help her chances. Piere Strydom steps back into the saddle and she may be rewarded for consistency. 

GALLADORN has finished fourth in his last two starts, the latest of which was over 1600m. The son of Potala Palace takes a drop in class and with a bit of luck in running, he can win a race of this nature. 

AMPERSAND raced from a handy position over 1400m last time and fought hard to hold all challengers at bay. He gets the services of 1.5kgs claiming apprentice Trent Mayhew which will assist his cause. He drops back in class and can follow up with another victory. 

MAIN DEFENDER was super-impressive when winning his last start over 1600m at Turffontein. He raced from a handy position, quickened up well and was geared down at the finish. The son of Pathfork is the class horse in this contest and he should take a power of beating. 

ANOTHER UNIVERSE followed up his maiden victory with a good third-place finish over 2400m on this course. He took the lead at the 400m mark that day before getting outrun late. The son of Ideal World won his maiden over this distance. He jumps from a good draw of three and may still be ahead of the handicapper. Diego De Gouveia retains the ride and he may be the one to side with.