Africa to rule in Grand Heritage

Four R250,000 Jackpot one carryovers on offer this weekend.

- Jack Milner

While the World Sports Betting Grand Heritage is only a Non-Black Type event, it is a race that captures the imagination of horseracing fans.

There are a number of reasons. Firstly, it gives lower-rated runners the opportunity to chase for a share of a R500,000 purse. That is a great asset to owners who have not had the fortune to purchase a Graded event winner to race for a decent sum of money.

Secondly, it is the only race in the country that has a field of more than 20 runners and is run over the odd distance of 1475m. It does turn into a cavalry charge but fortunately the Vaal straight is wide enough to give every runner a winning chance.

This year there is an additional opportunity for bettors as at all four race meetings this weekend - Fairview and Hollywoodbets Greyville today, the Vaal tomorrow and Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Sunday, there will be a R250,000 carryover to Jackpot One. The pool is likely to reach R1 million but as tomorrow's Vaal meeting is a standalone event this weekend, that expectation could be surpassed.