3 minute read
Brett Davis provides exclusive preview of Sha Tin races.
Rail - A+3 Course
Race 1
#3 RUBYLOT has been the defeated favourite at both outings so far but knot disgraced regarding effort.Like a typical young thoroughbred he's still learning how to run fast on four legs whilst staying focused at the same time.He has the ability to win but is one of a handful of chances in the first.The cheek pieces going on can make up the difference.
#2 SUPER LEGENDS is the first ride back for Hugh Bowman, following a lengthy suspension, and both horse and rider are likely to be in a fresh state of mind.There was plenty to like about his debut victory where he settled back before cutting out a fast final 600m.A quiet trial in early October wasn't overly flattering but his work since is good.
#1 KAHOLO ANGEL has been honest in both runs back this preparation and continues to developing his style.He was all about dash, speed and tire during his griffin days, but a concerted effort to expand his versatility is slowly starting to work.With a good draw, plus 10lbs claimer being utilised, he can position well with cover before crunching the line.
#7 MISSION VOICE draws poorly out wide for his debut but possesses the natural early speed to attempt a cross.Zac Purton has been with him in all three barrier trials and trainer Mark Newnham was aboard his final morning gallop.He's got a decent motor and is well prepared for a first up tilt, but market movements over the final few minutes shall presumably determine his fate.
#9 THE ABSOLUTE has been in work since the end of June and is the X-Factor, at a potential price, making his debut.He's a good looking and smooth moving son of Japanese sire SATONO ALADDIN but he does get worked up.With a wide draw to leave from and sweaty demeanour probable I'm lacking confidence to suggest he wins, but he can run and is fit.
Selections : 3,2,1,7,9
R2 - 3,9,10,2,11
R3 - 1,5,2,6,4
R4 - 9,4,14,12,7
R5 - 10,2,9,5,8
Race 6
#1 NOBLE PURSUIT improved substantially second up when he powered home from well back to get the money.The market suggested he'd run a good race, but the fashion in which he won suggests he's a class 3 horse or better.The top weight here along with the wide draw wont make things easy but if he's going to the next level then he should be hard to stop.
#8 HOLY LAKE showed plenty of potential as a griffin last season when he continually found the line with heat.He then responded nicely to the application of blinkers second up when running a bold race on speed.He's drawn to receive the perfect run and is just about ready to peak, so he's a superb roving banker option that could also win.
#12 GLUCK RACER dispatched his class 5 opponents with relative ease last start and is now back in the depths of class 4.That shouldn't be a concern, from a class perspective, because he's won here on three occasions before.With his confidence up and firing he now becomes a formidable opponent despite the ugly looking draw.
#3 SMILING COLLECTOR has struggled to finish off over the 1600m so a drop back in distance is the logical change.A trial win between runs has also created enthusiasm following his sit in behind and hard finish approach.The tongue tie has also been removed after two negative results so an improved performance is on the cards.
#6 VOLCANIC SPARK makes his debut for the astute Ricky Yui yard with six barrier trials under his belt.He's very immature, and shall likely need the race experience, but should give a decent sight up on the speed.What he's got to offer under race pressure is unanswerable to this point but he won't be racing underdone.
Selections : 1,8,12,3,6
Race 7
PANASONIC CUP(Class 1 - 1400m - Hcp)
#2 CIRCUIT STELLAR finished top four on twelve occasions last season from fifteen starts which highlights his passion and commitment to a race.
His effort in the first Gp2 race of the season last start was another honest and gutsy on speed display.
Under the handicap conditions of this easier class 1 he'll be loaded with considerable weight, but he's rock hard fit and drawn to receive a great run.
#3 RED LION adapted quickly to the rigorous landscape of Hong Kong racing by winning four races his initial campaign.With three strong trials in his back pocket, leading into his seasonal return, he won't be far off hitting his straps.The draw entitles him to a run where he'll be positioned to strike, so don't be surprised if he gets home for the win.
#1 TUCHEL has also enjoyed three solid barrier trials leading in to his return but has been conservative in his approach.He's now at a career high rating of 106 following a brilliant and prosperous last season but could be vulnerable first up under the weight.He's being aimed towards the big races in a month and his body weight suggests that's precisely the case.
#8 DANCING CODE returns to Sha Tin following a hard fought defeat behind ATULLIBIGEAL.The rise in distance, combined with a hike upwards into class 2, could certainly test his character but at the same time he's coping reasonably well.He's showing all the necessary signs to suggest he'll managed the challenge ahead and another win doesn't look faraway.
#7 FIND MY LOVE took time acclimatising to Hong Kong's zapping humidity but eventually came good during the closing meets last season.He's gifted with an exceptional turn of foot and was excellent first up when narrowly defeated.The wide draw and poor beginning cost him all hope in a strong race last start but he's better than that and could turn it around.
Selections : 2,3,1,8,7
R8 - 6,8,10,12,1
R9 - 4,2,6,12,5
R10 - 6,14,3,11,2
