Vaal Racing Tips & Best Bets for May 17

SWEET PEPPER won a good race on debut over 800m at Turffontein. The manner in which she quickened up and drew clear of the opposition was eye-catching. The daughter of Trippi returns from a 23-week break, during which time she would have strengthened up. She could be anything and if fit, she can remain unbeaten.

RIVER QUERARESS ran a very good race when finishing second behind Karangetang in the Grade 3 Protea Stakes last time. She raced from just off the pace and stayed on strongly at the finish. The daughter of Querari has plenty of class about her and in this line-up, she should notch up her fourth career victory.

QUEST FROM AFAR fly jumped leaving the stalls in her comeback run and over raced in the early stages of the race. The daughter of Querari would have come on from the run and will enjoy the extra 100m on offer. She should strip a much fitter horse and in this line-up, she is the horse to beat.

PASHASHA followed up her maiden victory with a good second-place finish over this distance on the Classic course. She challenged strongly all the way to the line, but found one too good in the form of Snow Palace. She takes on male company, but drops in class and should be the horse to beat.

ALABAMA ANNA showed good speed when winning her last start over this C&D. She has won twice from three starts over this track and trip. The daughter of The United States meets a similar type of field today and can follow up.