3 minute read

What looks like being a clear race is suddenly not so clear after the barrier draw.

The Hong Kong Derby (for the 4yos in Hong Kong as distinct from the 3yos in other jurisdictions) is over 2000m and there is a very short distance between the start and the first bend.  This means that horses drawn outside are at something of a disadvantage, and the counter those with the low numbers are at a slight advantage.

All this is part of the reason why Zac Purton is being very wary about the chances of his mount Starspangled Banner who is also no sure thing when it comes to the increase in distance.  Nevertheless he is a brilliant horse and cannot be ruled out.

The one that comes to the fore here is Senor Tobin, the mount of Joao Moreira who has gate #3 and could find himself either in the lead or very close behind it going round that first bend.  The horse, by Toronado, is trained by Caspar Fownes who is very bullish about his chances.

Two others that come into contention are Romantic Warrior , the mount of Karis Teetan, and Turin Redsun, a son of Dubawi trained by Douglas Whyte and to be ridden by Alex Badel.

We can't bring you the markets on these runners as we are in Doha en route to Dubai an the system here won't let us access that page.