Hong Kong form expert Luke Middlebrook provides his thoughts on every race at the Hong Kong meeting at Happy Valley on Wednesday, 9 July.
Ace Talent (#11) resumes off a 63-day break but placed in both starts over this course and distance before the let up, leading each time, and from barrier 3 he looks to get his own way in front again.
Selections: 11-1-6-10
Courier Magic (#3) is one from two in Class 5 and has been racing consistently since joining the Manfred Man yard, not beaten far in stronger Class 4 races. Back in grade, he finds the right set-up to return to winning form.
Selections: 3-4-6-12
Jolly Ruler (#1) takes a drop in grade and looks the one to beat. He’s won two of five in Class 4 and returns to the scene of his last victory, where he scored with something in hand.
Selections: 1-7-2-5
Day Day Victory (#10) gets back to his preferred course and trip after finding Sha Tin unsuitable last start. While he’s yet to win in Class 4, his close second over this track and distance two runs back puts him in the mix in an open race.
Selections: 10-1-2-9
Meepmeep (#11) has been luckless with wide draws since returning to Class 4 but continues to hit the line well and deserves another look.
Selections: 11-3-1-2
Whizz Kid (#3) is a proven performer over this track and trip, and from a handy draw, he’ll roll forward, make his own luck and be in with a shout to notch his first season win.
Selections: 3-2-1-6
Enjoy Golf (#2) has been knocking on the door all season with seven placings from ten starts, including efforts behind the likes of Ahren and Little Paradise which read well for this grade. He’s been consistent and deserves a breakthrough.
Selections: 2-1-4-3
Beauty Alliance (#8) looks ready to strike after a strong third over 1400m last start, a trip short of his best. He’s two from three over this course and distance and gets the right set-up to return to winning ways.
Selections: 8-10-9-5
Very Grateful (#9) has shaped nicely in both local starts, finishing within two lengths each time, and looks primed to peak third-up with blinkers applied—the same gear he wore when winning in New Zealand.
Selections: 9-10-2-1