Andrew Fortune rolled back the years with a trademark hands-and-heels ride at the Vaal today, guiding Var Park to victory in a sprint handicap. It was vintage Fortune—mild urgings, perfect positioning, and a confident finish that did all the talking.

Trained by Grant Maroun, Var Park is no superstar, but on this occasion, the spotlight was firmly on his jockey. Drawn on the inside, Fortune had the gelding tracking the pace before effortlessly taking control, reminiscent of his glory days aboard Free My Heart.

Fortune had endured a quiet start to his comeback with a few fancied mounts not delivering, but he made no mistake this time. Sent off at a drifting 14/1, Var Park produced a career-best effort under the seasoned hands of a jockey who remains a master of his craft.

Image 4RACING/JC Photos