3 minute read
Brett Davis provides exclusive preview of Happy Valley races.
Rail - C+3 Course
Race 1
#6 SMART BEAUTY was on the verge of forced retirement earlier this season but completely turned his form around.Trainer Tony Cruz has consistently worked the oracle with horses like this year after year by running them hard and eventually into form.At first, he sends them out regularly and pushes them on speed whilst increasing the distance gradually.If they don't respond, he then drops them back in distance, whilst having them ridden conservatively, and they generally start finding the line with enthusiasm.
#1 NICE BIRDIE has been extremely tough and honest all season despite the way his form may appear on paper.He did his fair share of work during the middle stages last start, over this same trip, and was still there fighting at the end.He's a one paced grinder that is suited by a strong tempo and that's certainly on the cards with some speed drawn wide.Regular rider Jerry Chau knows he'll need to secure a forward position from the good draw, and if that's the casethey'll be right amongst the money.
#11 LOYAL AMBITION must be included in all calculations following two excellent on speed performances.He's yet to win this season and another wide draw is the challenge he must overcome but he's on the verge of another success.The rail in its widest position can also be of assistance but the key is he must jump well enough to cross.
#10 DIAMOND WINNER has gone desperately close to shedding his maiden status this campaign but just fallen short on numerous occasions.Nevertheless, he's fit and again accompanied by a rider who understands his requirements and needs.Another opportunity to put one in the back of the net awaits, but he is starting to become costly, however did pullup with blood in the trachea last start.
#4 DRAGON PRIDE hasn't done much racing at Happy Valley in recent times but be assured he knows his way around.He's won twice here previously over the shorter trips and is ideally draw down low in gate number three.He hasn't been back in class 5 all that long, which is in his favour, and excuses are noted at his two previous starts.Be weary of overlooking him because he's capable of turning his form upside down, and at a price.
Selections : 6,1,11,10,4
R2 - 2,5,12,6,8
R3 - 5,10,1,3,8
R4 - 4,1,3,11,9
Race 5
#10 DAN ATTACK has always had his fair share of ability but its taken time to put it all together and produce.It appears as though trainer Jamie Richards has finally got to the bottom of him and worked out what makes him function and tick.Taking off all the head gear and leaving the tongue tie on has certainly been the essence of better results.The wide draw made it to difficult last start but this event appears near on perfect from the excellent draw.One of the better chances on the night.
#5 EASY SNIP hasn't had much go his way at Sha Tin recently so a return to the tight turning city circuit should help.He's alway performed well here, even from awkward barriers, so the inside gate can only be assessed as positive.A regular and longtime associate in Jerry Chau again takes the ride so there shouldn't be too many excuses.
#1 SPORTS LEGEND finds his way into class 4 now and with a claiming rider jumping on must be considered.He's got speed to burn and is likely to be hunting for the lead alongside of E UNIVERSE and fellow apprentice Ellis Wong.With blinkers going on for the first time he may even push on for the outright lead, and thereafter be in it for a long way.
#6 SUPER CHARIZZARD was in the market here on debut after trialling particularly well behind some highly rated and established gallopers.Unfortunately, he was checked out of the gates then ran in to further traffic problems approaching the home bend.The run was still good and the step up to 1200m should assist, so watch the market closely and keep him safe in all exotics.
#2 HOSS has endured a poor season to date because he's been to highly rated after enjoying three wins last term.He's been going through the motions for a while but finally rejoined the easier grade of class 4 last start.He always run well over this course and distance and wasn't overly pushed out the gates most recently.So be weary of improvement at any moment in time.
Selections : 10,5,1,6,2
R6 - 3,5,6,2,12
R7 - 4,6,5,10,12
R8 - 8,6,5,2,4
R9 - 11,5,3,10,7
