Golden Aspen has matured well

Golden Aspen (Pomodoro), won the eighth race of her career, taking a MR66 Handicap at the Vaal on Thurdsday, 28 May. She's delighted owners Coenie Strydom, Jannie de Lange and Spies racing with her courage during her career and, at five, she's probably not done yet. She's improved with maturity and even off her new 75 merit rating she'll have a chance of winning for a ninth time.

Corne Spies said: "Marco van Rensburg knows her well, she needs a patient ride because she has a short run-in. He knows how to ride her. Thanks to him and her owners."

Van Rensburg, who has ridden Golden Aspen 33 times for six wins, said: "She's a quirky girl, you have to be kind with her. She's given me uphill, but she's been good to me. When you're nice to her she gets going at the end of her races and gives you her best."