Hong Kong form expert Luke Middlebrook provides his thoughts on every race at the Hong Kong meeting at Happy Valley on Wednesday 15 January.
Is primed for a breakthrough after two highly encouraging efforts in this class. He’s drawn well in a low barrier, but Hugh Bowman will need to get the gelding to settle closer in what looks to be a race lacking early speed.
Selections: 2-12-5-6
Won impressively two starts ago over this course and trip but faced a wide draw last time, running strongly from last to finish fourth. Back to a low draw, he can return to winning ways for Zac Purton and Douglas Whyte.
Selections: 9-4-1-8
Was last seen running a commendable third after an awkward start saw him lose ground. He made a bold mid-race move near the 700 metres, racing wide and without cover, finishing two lengths behind Embraces. That form has been franked with Embraces winning a Class 3 at Sha Tin on Sunday.
Selections: 11-8-2-6
Is chasing his first win this campaign and finds a winnable race following solid efforts in strong form races, including a runner-up finish to Rubylot four starts ago and a game third to Raging Blizzard last time after setting a strong early pace. Barrier 1 and Zac Purton aboard add to his appeal.
Selections: 6-5-7-8
Is well-placed on the downgrade after mixed form in Class 3. His strong course and distance record enhances his prospects, and Zac Purton taking the ride from barrier 1 adds further confidence.
Selections: 1-5-7-6
Was caught late after leading until the 100m mark at Sha Tin last start, eventually fading into fourth behind the up-and-comer Masterofmyuniverse, having set a strong tempo. On paper, he appears likely to enjoy a softer lead this time and will give a sight.
Selections: 7-1-3-9
Disappointed last start after his impressive maiden win at his prior outing. He’s better than that, as his recent steward-enforced trial suggests, and he can bounce back here.
Selections: 1-2-5-8
Boasts strong formlines heading into this race, including a win over Voyage Samurai four starts ago. He has since performed commendably, highlighted by a last-start second to Californiatotality after leading the field at a solid tempo. Zac Purton takes the ride, and barrier 3 ensures he maps perfectly.
Selections: 2-4-8-12
Continues his upward trajectory as he seeks a hat-trick of wins and his fourth victory this season. The Pierre Ng-trained runner has climbed swiftly through the handicap and is poised to win his way into Class 2.
Selections: 1-9-11-6