'Big three' will help ensure exciting Mile

Punters' Pal

RECENTLY I commented on why I love to watch racing at Fairview rather than to follow the action on television.

There are some amazing sights at the track that you do not get to see on the box.

A bonus is some of the sights you see even just on your way to the track. I am lucky enough to catch our star female cyclist, Anriette Schoeman, in action in Kragga Kamma Road most Fridays on my way to Fairview.

I then always think of a hectic debate among the racing fraternity about her quite a few years ago. Anriette was asked to pose with a horse before the Derby of that year. Some of the big shots in racing were very excited to lure her into a career as a jockey.

I do not think that will ever happen but it still makes for an interesting debate. The comments were that Anriette had no weight problems, was strong enough for the difficult horses, was super fit and as a top cyclist knew about decision-making in crucial situations and was used to the competitive nature of sport at the top level.

Well, it might not be too late for Anriette and she could not do worse than some of the rides we saw recently.

We have eight races today, with the highlight the Fairview Mile. In the race are the winners of the East Cape horse of the year award for the last three years – Blaze of Fire (2013), Lord Badger (2012) and Celtic Fire (2011). It will be a thrilling race and there is no guarantee the big three will even run a place. There are others with chances in a very competitive affair.

We tipped you a nice little PA last week and this race won't be the one to go light in. The readymade banker must be Freezing Point in race three. After that it really gets tough and should make for exciting racing.

Don't forget the special Valentine's Day lunch at Fairview next Friday. Phone (041)372-1859 to book your place.

Punters' Pal tips for Fairview:

PA R432

3-5/1/1-2/2-3-6/2-5-7/1-5-10/1-8-10-15

Pick 6 R1800

1/1-2-3/2-3-6-7-8-9/1-2-5-7/1-3-5-7-10/ 1-3-8-9-10-15