Vaal Racecourse: Track, Straight and Big Races
Vaal Racecourse sits beside the Vaal River, near Vereeniging and a short drive south of Johannesburg. So here is how its very long straight works, the races that matter and where to bet.
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How Vaal Racecourse Races
Overall, the 1600m straight is the story at Vaal. Because races up to a mile run straight, there are no bends to worry about and the draw comes into play.
Races up to a mile go down the straight, which is the longest in South Africa. As a result, big fields of up to 27 runners can line up side by side.
In general, outside draws help on the straight, especially on soft ground. However, over 1400m, the angled stalls can box in inside draws unless they break quickly.
Races over a mile go round the turn. For instance, races over 1200m start mid bend, so stamina and position both matter.
In fact, horses positioned up front usually do well, even with the long run-in. Therefore, closers need a clear path.
Track details come from 4Racing, AmWager and SA Racing Tips. The draw notes come from one source, so treat them as a guide.
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Big Races at Vaal Racecourse
Full calendar →First, it began in 2005. Then it became a Grade 2 in 2007.
Also a Grade 2 race, and it usually comes in September.
Finally, it goes down the long straight, and the first edition in 2016 had 27 runners.
However, we will add exact dates once the fixture list is out.
Where to Bet on Vaal Racecourse
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Follow the channelThe Vaal Club and the Course
First, the Vaal Racing Club formed in February 1946. Then the course took its place beside the Vaal River at Viljoensdrif, so it has been a Gauteng fixture for generations.
Also, a second turf course called the Vaal Classic took over from the old sand track in 2016. It is a 2800m oval with a 1000m straight. For every big date, see the South African horse racing calendar.
Top photo: the Vaal River at Vereeniging by Ossewa, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Vaal Racecourse FAQ
Where is Vaal Racecourse?
Vaal Racecourse is beside the Vaal River at Viljoensdrif, near Vereeniging. In addition, it is a short drive south of Johannesburg.
How long is the Vaal straight?
The straight is 1600m, which is the longest in South Africa. First, races up to a mile run down it. Then longer races go round the turn.
Does Vaal have a draw bias?
In general, outside draws help on the straight, especially on soft ground. However, this comes from one source, so treat it as a guide.
What are the biggest races at Vaal?
The Grade 2 Emerald Cup and Heritage Cup are the best known. In addition, the Grand Heritage is run down the long straight.
Is Vaal left or right handed?
Overall, Vaal is right handed. In fact, the main turf course is an oval of about 3000m.