3 minute read
Brett Davis provides exclusive preview of Happy Valley races.
Rail - C Course
Race 1
#4 NORDIC COMBINED return with a bang when he absolutely destroyed a similar field to this first up.He's one of multiple horses that was previously trained by the now departed Richard Gibson, and it's likely he along with the others continue to improve.He gave away a big start before rocketing down the stretch to win running away, and I wouldn't think the 10lbs increase from the handicappers shall be enough.
#3 CHARMING STEED did a fine job from the outside gate to finish runner up last start and should be considered a genuine player from the better draw.He possesses reliable gate speed, which guarantees he'll be in front of many runners including NORDIC COMBINED, and therefore could be difficult to catch.He's only enjoyed the one career success but is as close to another as can be.
#8 BRILLIANT PIONEER has made a positive debut for the new stable of Ricky Yiu this season and a win is close.With two runs now under the saddle he's just about to peak and I like the way he's been moving in the mornings.These class 5 races won't get any easier so it's time to make or break.
#11 DAY DAY RICH is another on speed runner, with an ideal barrier, and should be considered amongst exotic hopes.His previous start on the all weather brought about his best result so far, so he's obviously feeling fit and well.He's yet to win a race at Happy Valley from twenty attempts but conversely has gone close at a number of tries.
#7 HAPPY TANGO is a three time winner in class 4 and capable of running well in this grade on turf.He's best know for his efforts on dirt but this is a race where he can find himself up on speed and potentially in the finish.He likely settles outside the leader, without much pressure, which enables him to defend his position up front.
Selections : 4,3,8,11,7
R2 - 6,7,1,2,5
R3 - 8,11,5,9,10
R4 - 4,8,7,1,6
Race 5
#2 DURHAM STAR finished off last season a consistent galloper and continues to race in similar frame of mind.He was beaten two runs back as the 2.2 favourite when congestion played its part approaching the home bend.With Purton aboard from the same gate last start he atoned with a dominant display to the line.The addition 8lbs tonight maybe a costly factor but he should nevertheless go pretty close to backing up.
#9 SUPER ELITE has run a couple of honest races at his two runs back from a spell and draws to do no work.He's raw, but improving all the time and gives a strong indication that the rise in distance shall suit.The market movements late in betting last race also suggested optimism was floating around, so I'd be including him in all decisions and thoughts.
#6 WIN WIN FIGHTER found untimely bother in the home stretch last start which ultimately cost him a minor spot.His first and second runs were also solid performances so he's realistically been unlucky not to have won.It's a tricky draw to deal with tonight, and I'm unsure where he positions up, but he's going well enough to feature.
#12 ASIAN ONE appeared progressive last season when eventually finding his form and a good run was witnessed last start.Mathew Chadwick knows him well and could've stuck with Right Honourable, a last start winner, which is clearly a reputable tip in itself.The low draw and light weight are attractive and the addition of a visor can help him to position closer up.
#10 KYRUS UNICORN finally broke through for another win over 2000m recently and did it with ease in class 5.He now changes venue, drops back to the Happy Valley mile and frustratingly draws the outside gate.He remains extremely well rated and his confidence shall be up, along with Brenton Avdulla's, who takes the mount.It's a head scratcher as to whether he goes in, or out, but he should be labelled a double figure price all considered.
Selections : 2,9,6,12,10
R6 - 6,5,1,2,11
R7 - 3,1,2,12,9
R8 - 10,6,8,5,7
