A flat, left-handed track with a circumference of approximately 2500m with a run-in of 600m.
A straight course of 1200m is used for all sprints and joins the round course at the 600m mark.
Despite being quite flat, the 1200m course is a very testing one, especially when a south-westerly headwind is blowing.
The 1400m start is very close to the first bend and the early scramble for position is vital, especially in good-sized fields.
The Clairwood 1400m has been the downfall of numerous horses racing there for the first time.
For the rest, the Clairwood round course is very fair and over distances of 1600m and up the barrier draw is of little importance.
Horses who race from off the pace usually have every chance, assuming it’s a true run race.
The effect of the draw in sprint races can be unpredictable, but high numbers often hold an advantage when the going is soft or heavy.
89 Barrier Lane, Merewent – Durban Box 40, Durban 4000
Tel. (031) 469-1020 Fax. (031) 469-0607