3 minute read

Brett Davis provides exclusive Preview of Hong Kong races.

Race 1

#7 U W Brother is a genuine 1000m horse that was always going to struggle with the Happy Valley 1650m last start. He led on that occasion but tired through the final 300m to finish fifth beaten four lenghts. The additional fitness and strength gained from that effort could well show its head reverting back to the more suitable 1000m. Plus a reminder, this is just his third run back in the lowest grade, which is where he thrives.
#5 Sunny and Gold took nineteen starts to notch up his first victory which was achieved over this very course and distance last start. It was also the first winner for the Karis Teetan/Dennis Yip combination after many attempts throughout the season. It's not a stable renowned for completing back to back victories, but with only 5lb extra to carry, it's some chance.
#6 Whiskey Neat remains a maiden after thirty seven attempts and Moreira jumps back aboard for a tenth try at braking the shackles. A good draw, the return to 1000m at Happy Valley and blinkers reapplied are sound reasons to suggest he'll make it into the finish. Moreira also trails by two wins with less than twenty races remaining, so I'd anticipate he'll be desperate to find extra magic. 
#12 Raging Blaze has Purton back aboard and with 120lbs the allotted weight some hard sweating has undoubtedly taken place to fulfil this engagement. Purton would be the first to tell you it's no easy task winning from gate ten, particularly over the valley 1000m, but easing back and looking for cover is the likely tactic again, which helps. This'll suit and with most efforts solid this season you can take him on at your peril.
#1 Chunghwa Jingshen finds himself back in class 5, drawn well and receiving a small 2lbs claim, which are reasons to entertain his chance. He's another that hasn't been overly taxed with just the six race starts this season. His win on the all weather track in December last year rated a career best, so anything close to that, has him in the hunt.

Selections : 7,5,6,12,1

R2 - 8,9,1,7,4

R3 - 10,5,8,1,11

R4 - 3,2,4,1,12

R5 - 1,10,7,11,4

Race 6

#6 Durham Star is racing well and despite the competitive nature of this class 4 contest appears nicely placed. With barrier three to leave from he'll be able to position handier to the speed, before launching his final run in the straight. His record at Happy Valley is excellent and jockey Levi Ferraris was successful on him four runs ago in a similar contest.
#5 Timestorm has displayed ability from day one and should have finished closer at his most recent start. It was his debut at Happy Valley and he bumped into congestion shortly after the start but recovered and finish nicely. With the rail to follow and the additional distance on offer, I'd be expecting a much improved performance. Moreira also takes over from Levi Ferraris and you'd be confident in suggesting he'll make it count.
#12 Ares jumps back up in class following two recent defeats in class 5 over the 1200m. He's one of numerous speed options competing but what's in his favour is the draw, light weight and jockey. He's well rated on his best and now he's recapturing form I'd want him in the discussion. 
#1 Wood On Fire is going to appreciate the strong tempo expected and is far better placed back in class 4 company. The draw looks awkward but Purton can ease initially before slotting in somewhere around mid-field with cover. Recents efforts at a higher lever have been sound and he's a specialist at this track and trip.
#11 Smart Leader is another that should be discussed following his last two runs, where he caught the eye, when finding the line with power. He's well in at the ratings following a long run of outs and can be entertained for exotics. There'll almost certainly be a cracking speed dished up and that's just the way he likes it.

Selections : 6,5,12,1,11

R7 - 10,11,9,2,1

R8 - 8,6,4,1,11

R9 - 8,6,2,5,12