Hong Kong form expert Luke Middlebrook provides his thoughts on every race at the Hong Kong meeting at Sha Tin on Sunday 29 December.
Scored in impressive style last time out and looks set to progress further for the John Size stable. While this race lacks a course-and-distance winner, the likely strong tempo could play perfectly to his strong finish.
Selections: 1-10-7-4
Won convincingly last time out and has thrived since joining Chris So’s stable. A repeat performance is well within reach, especially having drawn barrier 1.
Selections: 6-3-14-8
Faced a tough assignment last time out in the Group 2 Jockey Club Cup, where a wide run and an early move at the 1200m made for a forgettable effort. Dropping to this much easier contest, he has the ability to take up the running and rebound strongly.
Selections: 4-9-7-5
Deserves a better winning record, having been one of the unluckiest horses in Hong Kong when it comes to barrier draws. He looks ready to secure another victory after several strong fast-finishing efforts, with Class 4 being his most productive grade.
Selections: 2-10-7-5
Appears ready to break through third-up after finishing second in both runs at Happy Valley, and his most recent effort earned plenty of merit after starting wide from barrier 11. The switch to Sha Tin looks favourable, and a weaker race boosts his prospects.
Selections: 2-7-3-6
Signalled he is ready to add another win to his tally with a close-up third last start when well-supported as the favourite. He rates as another leading chance here.
Selections: 4-6-8-1
Finds a prime opportunity to secure another victory against a modest field, with many rivals needing to improve. The addition of a handy 5lb claim under Ellis Wong and his tactical speed further enhance his prospects.
Selections: 1-5-3-11
Looks well-placed to break his Class 3 maiden, likely dictating the pace on his own terms. Resuming off a trial win in sharp time at Conghua, he appears to be in excellent order.
Selections: 11-6-12-1
Had genuine excuses last start, knuckling at the jump and settling further back than usual. Despite that, he stormed home late to grab second, showing he’s not a one trick pony. A strong trial since suggests he’s ready to bounce back to winning ways.
Selections: 3-5-2-4
Is a promising prospect for the Cody Mo stable, with a potential tilt at the Hong Kong Classic Mile on the horizon. Chasing a hat-trick, this up-and-coming four-year-old looks primed to deliver again.
Selections: 7-3-2-4