The 1100m Hachiman Sprint on Saturday was won by Varnica in the most exciting of finishes involving stable companion Tulip Way. Debra Swanson trained five of the six winners on the card – and Norbert Takawira rode four of them. Great stuff.

Although the going was heavy the course was looking good. Spruced up and sparkling. What a difference some paint makes! The TV coverage by 4Racing on DSTV was also greatly improved. All so encouraging.

Photographs by Gavin Macleod