3 minute read
Brett Davis provides exclusive Preview of Happy Valley races.
Rail - B Course
Race 1
#7 UNITED ENDEAVORS has been super honest all season and is worthy of serious consideration in a tough opening event.He didn't appreciate the dirt last start where he dealt with plenty kick back but should thrive on a return to the city circuit, and turf again underfoot.There'll be no concerns from the good draw regarding his position in the run so expect him to run another solid race.
#4 BIG TWO did not have a memorable experience on the dirt track last start so you can put your pen through that poor performance and focus on the run prior.His fourth, and first run in this class recently, was an excellent effort considering he was checked badly in the run down the home straight.A familiar rider in Harry Bentley remains aboard and should they be able to settle a fraction handier then they'll make their presence felt at the end.
#1 STORMTROUPER is a winner of just the one race but is a better animal than his overall form suggests.A drop into the lowest grade is precisely what's needed and from the low inside draw he'll do no work during the run.He's fit and hasn't been faraway in much tougher races recently, so if he doesn't finish in the frame, then he needs a break, or a long overdue stable change.
#6 REGENCY HAPPY STAR went extremely close to winning a race at the end of last year and with the number one rider aboard, he'll be popular.Gates twelve and thirteen took care of any chance he had at his two previous runs but that won't be the case tonight.Expect him to land in an ideal position from the low advantageous draw and he's another with an opportunity to win.
#2 NICE BIRDIE has been admirable at his past three starts with a narrow win and defeat the two highlights.He'll need a touch of luck to find cover and avoid being caught wide, with a drop back in trip creating his opportunity to settle further back.He did a fair amount of work during the run last start and was still there fighting at the end, so with a stronger tempo to run at he should close in faster.
Selections : 7,4,1,6,2
R2 - 11,8,1,2,4
R3 - 7,2,3,10,4
R4 - 11,3,1,9,10
R5 - 4,2,12,10,1
R6 - 3,11,10,8,1
R7 - 3,2,8,5,9
R8 - 4,1,6,2,7
Race 9
#3 RAGING BLIZZARD did plenty right during his first four starts at Sha Tin before venturing to the bright city lights of Happy Valley last outing. It's worth noting, he hadn't visited at all in the past, not even to trial, so he's going to be lengths better for that city experience. That being said, the outside barrier draw levels the playing field so there'll be concern driving through the first bend.However, he appears good enough to take the race on by pushing hard, rolling forward and then finding the line to win.
#7 SING DRAGON arrives from the Chris Waller stable in Sydney where he was previously know as OPERATIVE.He won his maiden at Newcastle before a Wednesday 3yo Bm68 at Rosehill but he hasn't raced for more than a year.There are no recorded veterinary issues that have held him back and his overall preparation has been slow, but thorough.A total of three trials have been undertaken since December where he's been forward and strong to the line.
#1 BON'S A PEARLA is one of very few mares racing in Hong Kong and she's so far been an underachiever. However, recent signs in the mornings, and results on the track, are highlighting that she's now settled in to her new home and is feeling well. Her handicap rating has dropped significantly in previous months which has her well placed on her overseas form.
She'll give away a start but finishes hard and there were clear excuses last start.
#8 SUGAR SUGAR boasts an excellent record over the Happy Valley 1200m and looks destined to receive the perfect run.Winning in class 3 remains the hurdle he must overcome but he's as ready as ever to give it another crack.He's yet to run a bad race this campaign from seven overall starts and with a 5lb claim, courtesy of apprentice rider Alfred Chan, is extremely attractive on the eye.
#5 WINGS OF WAR is having his first run for the new stable of Douglas Whyte and shouldn't be underestimated.He was a Gp 2 winner in France and had multiple placings in black type events but he's struggled with acclimatisation.With the blinkers back on, and another recent change of scenery, don't be surprised if he get's involved.
Selections : 3,7,1,8,5
