3 minute read
Brett Davis provides exclusive preview of Happy Valley races.
Hong Kong Racing returns to Happy Valley following a weeks break for the annual July 1st Reunification Raceday meeting at Shatin.
The rail returns back to the A course(True) so there's basically a brand new track to gallop on. The way the track plays through the night should be a point of discussion. There has in the past often been a bias when returning to this course profile, so reading the play early as to wether the rail is hot or not could make all the difference to your final selections.
The Trainers Championship wrestle is now in full swing with Ricky Yui(64), Francis Lui(63) and Tony Cruz(60) all having there share of handy chances tonight. However, looking ahead to the final Shatin meeting this Sunday might be the ultimate game changer or decider. With early entries unveiling all three trainers are prepared with big numbers and last start winners, ready and reloaded to go again before the season is done.
R1 - 10,9,8,7,12
R2 - 2,6,12,1,8
R3 - 3,7,2,6,1
R4 - 12,4,3,7,9
Race 5
#11 Ardenode lines up for his seventeenth start in Hong Kong and it's fair to say he's been a costly conveyance, for both his owners and punters that have shown any loyalty. He began his career in France winning two races with the later at listed level over 1000m. A Group 3 placing at his final start saw the youngster eventually arrive in to Hong Kong with an allotted and mandatory 80 rating points. It's now very clear that acclimatisation and all that goes with it became difficult for the youngster to deal with, however fifteen months down the track he finally delivered something. His last start at the valley was brilliant after only beginning fair from the gates. He literally rocketed to the line following with his last 400m clocked at in impressive 21.98. Tonight he finds conditions almost identical and with Mathew Poon sticking to the saddle, he should be given one last chance.
#1 We The South has displayed form and speed recently but interesting the stable has called for the claiming rider tonight. If he can find the lead and receive no pressure he'll prove difficult to cut down, but cracks in his armour have appeared when he's dished up early pressure.
#9 Nextmodel has again drawn the outside barrier and is likely once more to look for the spot outside the lead. Zac Purton shall be hoping like Alfred Chan there's no nuisance speed from anything drawn low, as that holds the key to there winning chance.
#8 Excellent Chariot has drawn perfectly in gate five and provided he steps on terms and musters, he'll get his chance in the stretch.
#3 Forza Angel is well rated on his only win, which came over this course and distance last season. Recently he's been competitive and is likely to be there for a long way, but his chance is hugely increased if there's rain.
Selections : 11,1,9,8,3
R6 - 2,5,9,11,7
R7 - 2,9,11,4,5
R8 - 6,9,3,2,12
Race 9
#1 Golden Spectrum has quickly found form since stepping over the longer trips and relocating his racing to the valley. He did all the heavy lifting over 2200m last start sitting outside the lead, but still then managed third behind a potential class one galloper in Beauty Happy. Tonight he can find cover and despite having to shoulder the big weight should be poised to attack the line.
#8 Brave King is drawn to get all the favours and shouldn't have to many excuses by the time they're homeward bound. He's a talented young horse who had solid form in Ireland pre-import and should make his presence felt. He'll be much better next season and worth following closely but I am expecting him to find the frame.
#12 Lightning Steed has gone to a whole new level the last month and finds himself in class 3 for the first time. The old Lightning Steed wouldn't warrant a mention at this level but hasn't he turned his form right around. The recent wins displayed pace, resistance, heart and dominance and with no weight to carry tonight, I'm very wary of his presence.
#3 Blastoise had excuses over the 2200m but returns tonight to his ideal distance. He's had plenty of racing throughout the season and could be vulnerable to fatigue. His consistency however has rarely been questioned and he must be include in calculations.
#2 Toycoon is gradually settling in to Hong Kong lifestyle and looks a nice horse for next season. It's difficult to access exactly where he fits in at present but he's definitely heading in the right direction.
Selections : 1,8,12,3,3
